[Parkinsonism induced by propiverine hydrochloride--report of 3 cases]

We report 3 cases of parkinsonism (ages ranging between 79 and 86) induced by propiverine hydrochloride (P-4), an anticholinergic drug with a direct effect on the smooth muscle of the bladder, used for the treatment of patients with urinary frequency and/or incontinence. An 87-year-old man with no neurological disorders developed parkinsonism for the first time soon after administration of P-4. In two other patients already diagnosed with parkinsonism, the disease condition worsened after administration of P-4. Their symptoms and signs were characterized by gait disturbance (marche à petits pas) and bradykinesia. All patients recovered from P-4-induced parkinsonism after interruption of P-4. We must watch carefully for the development or progression of parkinsonism when administering P-4 to elderly people.