Also indexed as: Cogentin
Benztropine is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and to treat adverse reactions to anti-psychotic drugs.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
 May Be Beneficial: Supportive
interaction—Taking these supplements may support or otherwise help your medication
work better. |
L-tryptophan* Niacin* |
| Depletion or interference |
None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability |
None known |
| Adverse interaction |
None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
L-tryptophan and
Niacin
Akathisia is an adverse reaction to anti-psychotic drugs, where a person has an uncontrollable
desire to be in constant motion. One preliminary report suggested that 4,000 mg of
L-tryptophan and 25 mg niacin per day taken with benztropine enhances the treatment of
akathisia.1 Controlled studies are necessary to determine whether L-tryptophan and
niacin supplements might benefit most people taking benztropine who experience adverse
reactions to anti-psychotic drugs.
1. Kramer MS, DiJohnson C, Davis P, et al. L-tryptophan in neuroleptic-induced akathisia. Biol Psychiatry 1990;27:671–2.
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Learn more about the authors of Using Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.