What Is Procyclidine Used For?

Procyclidine is used for relieving symptoms of Parkinson's disease and certain movement disorders (extrapyramidal disorders) that are caused by antipsychotic medications. This medication is also approved to treat excessive drooling. As an anticholinergic medication, procyclidine works by re-establishing the balance of certain chemicals in the nervous system. There are currently no universally accepted off-label procyclidine uses.

What Is Procyclidine Used For? -- An Overview

Procyclidine hydrochloride (Kemadrin®) is a prescription medication. It belongs to a group of medicines known as anticholinergics. It is approved to treat the following conditions:
 
  • Excessive drooling caused by Parkinson's disease or antipsychotic medications
  • Extrapyramidal disorders (movement or muscle tension disorders) caused by antipsychotic medications
  • Parkinson's disease and other similar conditions.
     

Procyclidine for Excessive Drooling

Excessive drooling (known medically as sialorrhea) can be very distressing and embarrassing. There are many different causes for excessive drooling, including Parkinson's disease and antipsychotic medications. Sometimes, drooling can be so severe that people stop taking their antipsychotic medications just for some relief from the drooling. Treatment for excessive drooling may involve dental devices, surgery, or medications, depending on the cause of the drooling. Drooling caused by Parkinson's disease or by antipsychotics often responds well to anticholinergic medications, including procyclidine. Procyclidine prevents the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from stimulating nerves that cause drooling, essentially drying up the excess saliva.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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