Key takeaways
Benztropine (formerly branded as Cogentin) and gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used as an add-on treatment for Parkinson's disease and to manage movement problems caused by antipsychotic medications. In contrast, gabapentin is an antiepileptic medication used to treat certain seizures and nerve pain, such as pain from shingles. Benztropine is available only as a generic medication, while gabapentin is available both as a generic and under the brand names Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant. Benztropine can cause side effects like dry mouth, fast heartbeat, and memory problems, whereas gabapentin commonly causes dizziness, sleepiness, and poor muscle control. Additionally, gabapentin needs to be taken multiple times a day, while benztropine's dosing can vary from once daily to multiple times a day depending on the condition being treated. Gabapentin also carries a risk of serious side effects like suicidal thoughts and breathing problems, which are not associated with benztropine.
