Trifluoperazine

Uses of Trifluoperazine

Trifluoperazine is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, psychotic disorders). Trifluoperazine belongs to a class of drugs known as antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking trifluoperazine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine, perphenazine); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver problems, kidney problems, heart problems (such as mitral valve insufficiency, abnormal heart rhythm, angina), low blood pressure, blockage of the intestines, glaucoma, seizures, enlarged prostate, breathing problems (such as severe asthma, emphysema, lung infections), blood disorders (such as bone marrow depression, low red/white/platelet blood cell counts), low levels of calcium in the blood, dehydration, breast cancer, brain disorder/tumor/injury, exposure to organophosphate insecticides, pheochromocytoma, drug/alcohol/substance abuse, Parkinson’s disease.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery or imaging procedures (such as certain X-rays, CT scans) requiring the use of contrast dye (such as metrizamide), tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication and about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop symptoms including muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn especially during their first month, tell the doctor right away.

Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as schizophrenia, psychotic disorders) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Dosage

The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Although you may notice some medication effects soon after starting, it may take 2 to 3 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness;
• blurred vision;
• dry mouth, loss of appetite;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• muscle weakness;
• itching or rash;
• missed menstrual periods; or
• breast swelling or discharge.