Fluphenazine Hydrochloride

Generic Name: fluphenazine hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Fluphenazine Hydrochloride

Fluphenazine hydrochloride is a trifluoromethyl phenothiazine derivative indicated for the management of psychotic disorder manifestations, available in oral tablet form.

Overview

Fluphenazine hydrochloride is a trifluoromethyl phenothiazine derivative indicated for the management of psychotic disorder manifestations, available in oral tablet form.

Uses

Indicated for managing psychotic disorder manifestations. Not effective for behavioral complications in mental retardation patients.

Dosage

Adult initial dose: 2.5-10mg daily divided at 6-8 hour intervals. Maintenance: 1-5mg daily. Geriatric: start 1-2.5mg daily, adjust per response.

Side Effects

CNS effects include extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Autonomic effects: hypotension, nausea, dry mouth. Hematologic: leukopenia, agranulocytosis. Hepatic: cholestatic jaundice possible.

Warnings

Elderly dementia patients on antipsychotics face increased death risk (1.6-1.7x placebo). Drug not approved for dementia-related psychosis. Risk of tardive dyskinesia with chronic use. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome possible. Fall risk from somnolence and postural hypotension. Contraindicated in subcortical brain damage, blood dyscrasia, liver damage, or hypersensitivity to fluphenazine or phenothiazines.

Pregnancy

Safety not established. Use only if benefits justify fetal risks. Neonates exposed third trimester may develop extrapyramidal symptoms.

Storage

Store 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F). Avoid excessive heat and light. Use tight, light-resistant container.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fluphenazine Hydrochloride used for?

Indicated for managing psychotic disorder manifestations. Not effective for behavioral complications in mental retardation patients.

What are the side effects of Fluphenazine Hydrochloride?

CNS effects include extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Autonomic effects: hypotension, nausea, dry mouth. Hematologic: leukopenia, agranulocytosis. Hepatic: cholestatic jaundice possible.

Can I take Fluphenazine Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

Safety not established. Use only if benefits justify fetal risks. Neonates exposed third trimester may develop extrapyramidal symptoms.

What are the important warnings for Fluphenazine Hydrochloride?

Elderly dementia patients on antipsychotics face increased death risk (1.6-1.7x placebo). Drug not approved for dementia-related psychosis. Risk of tardive dyskinesia with chronic use. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome possible. Fall risk from somnolence and postural hypotension. Contraindicated in subcortical brain damage, blood dyscrasia, liver damage, or hypersensitivity to fluphenazine or phenothiazines.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.