Compare Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Benztropine (formerly branded as Cogentin) and Gocovri (amantadine) are both used to manage symptoms related to Parkinson's disease, but they have different uses and mechanisms. Benztropine, available only as a generic, is an anticholinergic medication used as an add-on treatment for Parkinson's disease and to address movement problems caused by antipsychotic medications. It works by blocking chemicals that cause muscle spasms and tremors. On the other hand, Gocovri (amantadine) is an NMDA antagonist that helps with uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia) and "off" episodes in adults taking levodopa/carbidopa for Parkinson's disease. Gocovri is taken once daily at bedtime and is available in a long-acting form, while benztropine can be taken once or multiple times a day depending on the condition being treated. Common side effects of benztropine include dry mouth and fast heartbeat, whereas Gocovri can cause hallucinations, dizziness, and dry mouth. Additionally, Gocovri has specific warnings about not stopping the medication suddenly due to the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, which is not a noted concern with benztropine.
- BenztropineGocovri (amantadine)
- BenztropineGocovri (amantadine)
Summary of Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Summary for AnticholinergicPrescription onlyBenztropine is an add-on medication used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It's also used for movement problems that are side effects from other medications, such as antipsychotics. It's no longer available as the brand name Cogentin, but still sold as the generic name benztropine. Dry mouth, trouble sweating, nausea, and fast heartbeat are some possible side effects of benztropine.
Summary for NMDA antagonistPrescription onlyGocovri (amantadine) is an NMDA antagonist. It's taken by adults with Parkinson’s disease (PD) to ease sudden uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia) caused by levodopa-containing PD medications. It can also help prevent "off" episodes of levodopa/carbidopa medications, like Sinemet. Gocovri (amantadine) is taken by mouth once a day at nighttime. Common side effects of this medication include hallucinations, dizziness, and dry mouth.
Indications of Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Indications for•Parkinson's disease (add-on medication)•Movement problems (extrapyramidal symptoms, or EPS) caused by antipsychotic medicationsIndications for•Treatment of dyskinesia (uncontrolled movement) in adults with PD who're taking levodopa/carbidopa•Treatment of “off” episodes in adults taking levodopa/carbidopaPros and Cons of Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Pros and Const for AnticholinergicPros•Dose can be easily adjusted based on your symptoms and side effects•Works together with other anti-parkinson medications•Available as a lower-cost generic medicationCons•Can cause severe dry mouth that can make it difficult to eat and speak•Not a good option for young children and older adults•Interacts with certain antipsychotics and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)Pros and Const for NMDA antagonistPros•Only taken once a day•Can be opened and sprinkled on food, so it's convenient for people who've trouble swallowing pills•Taken with or without foodCons•Not a safe option during pregnancy•Can't take with alcohol because of serious side effects, like drowsinessCommon Side Effects of Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Common Side Effects for•Dry mouth•Nausea and vomiting•Constipation•Slowed gut movement•Fast heartbeatCommon Side Effects for•Hallucinations (21%)•Dizziness (16%)•Dry mouth (16%)•Swelling in the arms and legs (16%)•Lightheadedness when standing (13%)•Constipation (13%)•Fall (13%)•Urinary tract infection (10%)Warnings of Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Common Side Effects for•Trouble thinking clearly•Slowed gut movement•Heat stroke•Muscle weakness•Mental health effectsCommon Side Effects for•Falling asleep during daily activities•Suicidal thoughts or behavior•Problems with mood and hallucinations•Low blood pressure and dizziness•High fever and confusion (from withdrawal)•Unusual urges and impulsive behaviorsPrices with our coupons for Cogentin vs. Gocovri
Compare other Parkinson's Disease drugs
Browse medications
View AllResearch prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.