Pericyazine

Antipsychotic Drug

Drug class: Typical Antipsychotic

Pericyazine (NEULACTIL) (中文: 吩噻嗪類)

Common Strengths of Pericyazine Tablet

Pericyazine are available in the following strengths:

• Tablets: 2.5 mg, 10 mg

Drug Trade Names of Pericyazine Tablet

Neulactil

Drug Usage

Treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders

Mechanism of Action

Pericyazine acts by:

• Blocking dopamine D₁ receptors
• Blocking alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors

Route of Administration

Oral

Dosages

For adults with schizophrenia or other severe psychoses:

• Initial dose: 75 mg daily in divided doses
• Increase by 25 mg per day at weekly intervals until optimal effects is achieved
• Maximum dose: Usually not more than 300 mg per day

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common	Drowsiness and dizziness
	Dry mouth: can often be managed by chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free sweets
	Nausea and vomiting
	Constipation or diarrhea
	Orthostatic hypotension
	Photosensitivity: Increased sensitivity to sunlight, requiring protective measures like sunscreen and avoiding sunbeds
Serious	Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by muscle stiffness, high fever, confusion, fast heartbeat, and sweating. Immediate medical intervention is necessary if these symptoms occutr
	Extrapyramidal symptoms: These include uncontrolled muscle movements, particularly of the face, jaw, neck, and mouth
	Blood disorders: Conditions like leucopenia (low white blood cell count) and agranulocytosis (severe reduction in white blood cells) can increase susceptibility to infections
	Venous thromboembolism (VTE): Including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal
	Liver issues: Symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) indicating liver damage
	Severe allergic reactions: Signs include rash, itching, fever, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, or throat
	QT prolongation leading to dangerous heart arrhythmias

Pharmacokinetics

• Metabolism: Pericyazine undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism.
• Elimination: The drug and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine, with some elimination occurring through feaces
• Elimination half-life: Approximately 12 hours

The onset of action for pericyazine typically occurs within 1-2 hours after oral administration. This relatively quick onset is due to its rapid absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.

The duration of pericyazine's effects is approximately 12 hours.

Drug Precautions

Pregnancy

Use only if clearly needed; potential risk to the fetus, especially in the third trimester

Breastfeeding

Not recommended; potential risk to the infant

Children and Elderly

• Children: Not recommended for children under 1 year old; use with caution in older children
• Elderly: Start at lower doses and titrate slowly due to increased sensitivity to side effecrs

Monitoring Requirements

• Blood pressure
• Complete blood count
• Liver function tests
• ECG in patients at risk of QT prolongation

Drug Interactions

• Increased CNS depression with alcohol, barbiturates, opioids
• Increased risk of arrhythmias with drugs that prolong QT interval
• Decreased effectiveness of levodopa
• Increased risk of extrapyramidal symptoms with metoclopramide

FAQ

How Should I Take the Tablet?

Take orally, usually twice daily in the morning and evening

What Should I Avoid While Taking?

Avoid alcohol, driving, or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Avoid excessive sun exposure

What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.