Trifluoperazine

Antipsychotic Drug

Drug class: Typical Antipsychotic

Trifluoperazine (STELAZINE)（中文：三氟拉嗪）

Pronunciation

Trifluoperazine 1mg

Common Strengths of Trifluoperazine Tablet

Trifluoperazine are available in the following strengths:

• Tablets: 1 mg, 2 mg, 5 mg

Drug Trade Names of Trifluoperazine Tablet

Stelazine

Drug Usage

Managemnt of schizophrenia

Mechanism of Action

It works primarily by blocking dompamine D₁ and D₂ receptors in the brain, particularly in the mesocortical and mesolimbic pathways. It also has antiadrenergic, antihistaminic, and minimal anticholinergic effects.

Route of Administration

Oral

Dosages

• Schizophrenia in adults: Initially 2 to 5 mg orally twice daily, increased gradually to 15 to 20 mg/day. Maximum 40 mg/day.

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common	Drowsiness and dizziness
	Dry mouth: Can be managed with sugarless gum.
	Blurred vision: Can affect daily activities like reading and driving.
	Constipation
	Urinary retention
	Insomnia
	Fatigue: General tiredness and lack of energy.
	Muscle weakness: May affect physical activities
	Skin reactions: Includes rash, itching, and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
	Insomnia
	Loss of appetite
	Menstrual irregularities: Missed periods or other changes in the menstrual cycle.
	Breast swelling or discharge: This can occur in both men and women due to increased prolactin levels.
Serious	Extrapyramidal symptoms (movement disorders): Muscle stiffness or spasms Tremors Restlessness (akathisia) Parkinson-like symptoms
	Tardive dyskinesia (potentially irreversible in voluntary movements of face and tongue)
	Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental state)
	Low white blood cell count (agranulocytosis)
	Seizures
	QT prolongation leading to dangerous heart arrhythmias
	Orthostatic hypotension: Sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or fainting
	Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes
	Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms include difficulty of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Pharmacokinetics

• Metabolism: Hepatic
• Elimination half-life: 18 - 24 hours

Onset and duration of drug action:

• Onset: Within 30 to 60 minutes (oral)
• Duration: 24 hours or longer

Drug Precautions

Pregnancy

Use only if potential benefits outweigh risks. May cause extrapyramidal symptoms in newborns if used in the third trimester.

Breastfeeding

Use caution. Trifluoperazine is excreted in breast milk.

Children and Elderly

• Children: Use caution. Safety and efficacy not established in children under 6 years.
• Elderly: Start with lower doses and titrate slowly. Increased risk of adverse effects.

Monitoring Requirements

• Extrapyramidal symptoms
• ECG in patients at risk of QT prolongation
• Complete blood count
• Liver function tests
• Blood pressure
• Eye examinations (long-term use)

Drug Interactions

• Increased sedation with CNS depressants
• Increased risk of QT prolongation with other QT-prolonging drugs
• Reduced effectiveness of levodopa
• Increased plasma levels with CYP3A4 inhibitors

FAQ

How Should I Take the Tablet?

It can be taken with or without food.

What Should I Avoid While Taking?

Avoid alclhol and activities requiring mental alertness until you know how trifluoperazine affects you.

What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double doses.