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.
