What anti-cholinergic medication is often used to reduce the side effects of antipsychotics?

The use of an anti-cholinergic medication to mitigate the side effects of antipsychotics is well-established in psychiatric practice. Cogentin, or benztropine, is a medication that helps address extrapyramidal symptoms, which can include tremors, rigidity, and akathisia, commonly associated with antipsychotic treatment. By blocking acetylcholine receptors, Cogentin reduces these motor side effects that arise from the dopaminergic blockade of antipsychotics.

While Benadryl, an antihistamine, can also have anticholinergic properties, it is not primarily utilized to manage antipsychotic side effects in a clinical setting. Amitriptyline, primarily an antidepressant, has anticholinergic effects as well but is not indicated for treating the side effects of antipsychotics specifically. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that may help with anxiety and agitation, but it does not target the motor side effects associated with antipsychotic treatment. Thus, the effectiveness and specific indication of Cogentin make it the correct choice for this particular situation.