Trifluoperazine
Schizophrenia, Psychotic Disorders ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Phenothiazine
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Trifluoperazine
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Trifluoperazine is used for treating schizophrenia and short-term management of generalized non-psychotic anxiety. However, it's not approved for dementia-related behavior problems due to increased mortality risk.
Trifluoperazine works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. It's a conventional antipsychotic that manages symptoms of schizophrenia and anxiety by affecting neurotransmitter activity.
For adults, the usual starting dose for psychotic disorders is 2-5 mg twice daily, with most responding well to 15-20 mg daily. For non-psychotic anxiety, the usual dose is 1 or 2 mg twice daily, not exceeding 6 mg per day or 12 weeks of use. For children aged 6 to 12, the starting dose is 1 mg once or twice daily.
Common side effects include dizziness, blurred vision, dry mouth, nausea, and constipation. Serious side effects can include fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and irregular heartbeat. It may cause weight gain and changes in appetite.
Trifluoperazine is not approved for dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risk. It may cause tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible condition. Patients with liver disease, blood disorders, or hypersensitivity to phenothiazines should avoid it. It's also excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse reactions in nursing infants.
Indications and Purpose
What is Trifluoperazine used for?
Trifluoperazine is indicated for treating schizophrenia and short-term management of generalized non-psychotic anxiety. It is not approved for dementia-related behavior problems due to increased mortality risk.
How does Trifluoperazine work?
Trifluoperazine works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. It is a conventional antipsychotic that helps manage symptoms of schizophrenia and anxiety by affecting neurotransmitter activity.
Is Trifluoperazine effective?
Trifluoperazine is effective in managing schizophrenia and short-term treatment of generalized non-psychotic anxiety. Its effectiveness was established in clinical studies, showing improvement in symptoms of anxiety and psychosis.
How does one know if Trifluoperazine is working?
The benefit of Trifluoperazine is evaluated through regular doctor visits, monitoring symptom improvement, and assessing side effects. Eye exams are recommended due to potential eye disease risk.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Trifluoperazine?
For adults, the usual starting dose for treating psychotic disorders is 2 mg to 5 mg twice daily, with most patients responding well to 15 mg to 20 mg daily. For non-psychotic anxiety, the usual dose is 1 or 2 mg twice daily, not exceeding 6 mg per day or 12 weeks of use. For children aged 6 to 12, the starting dose is 1 mg once or twice daily, with a maximum of 15 mg daily for severe symptoms.
How do I take Trifluoperazine?
Trifluoperazine can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions, but it's important to follow the doctor's instructions and maintain a normal diet unless advised otherwise.
For how long do I take Trifluoperazine?
Trifluoperazine is typically used for short-term treatment of anxiety, not exceeding 12 weeks. For schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, the duration depends on the individual's response and the doctor's recommendation, often requiring long-term use.
How long does it take for Trifluoperazine to start working?
Trifluoperazine may take several weeks to show clinical improvement, especially in treating schizophrenia. For anxiety, effects might be noticed sooner, but individual responses can vary.
How should I store Trifluoperazine?
Store Trifluoperazine in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and dispose of it through a take-back program if no longer needed.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Trifluoperazine?
Trifluoperazine is not approved for dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risk. It may cause tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible condition. Patients with liver disease, blood disorders, or hypersensitivity to phenothiazines should avoid it.
Can I take Trifluoperazine with other prescription drugs?
Trifluoperazine can interact with CNS depressants, antihypertensives, and anticholinergics, enhancing their effects. It may also interfere with the metabolism of phenytoin, leading to toxicity. Always inform your doctor of all medications you're taking.
Can I take Trifluoperazine with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Trifluoperazine be taken safely while pregnant?
Trifluoperazine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. It may cause problems in newborns if taken during the last months of pregnancy. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Trifluoperazine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Trifluoperazine is excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse reactions in nursing infants. A decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or the drug, considering the importance of the medication to the mother.
Is Trifluoperazine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients are more susceptible to side effects like hypotension and neuromuscular reactions. It's important to start with lower doses and monitor closely. Trifluoperazine is not approved for dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risk.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Trifluoperazine?
Trifluoperazine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty with balance, which can affect the ability to exercise safely. It's important to understand how the medication affects you before engaging in physical activities.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Trifluoperazine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Trifluoperazine can worsen its side effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness. It is advisable to avoid alcohol to prevent these enhanced effects and ensure the medication works safely and effectively.
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