Flupenthixol
Uses of Flupenthixol
As an antipsychotic medication, Flupenthixol is primarily used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders such as delusions, hallucinations, disordered thinking, and abnormal behaviour. Flupenthixol is a typical antipsychotic medicine.
It can also be used to manage depression, especially in cases with psychotic features.
Side effects of Flupenthixol
Tremors, muscle rigidity, and involuntary movements
Sedation and fatigue
Dry mouth and constipation
Dizziness and headaches
Weight gain
How Flupenthixol works
Flupenthixol is a typical antipsychotic medicine.
It works by blocking the receptors in the brain for dopamine, a chemical messenger that affects thoughts and mood. By reducing the activity of dopamine, it helps to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It also blocks serotonin 5-HT2 receptors to some extent, another chemical messenger involved in mental balance.
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Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Flupenthixol can be taken orally (tablet and oral solution) and administered intramuscularly (long-acting injectable depot formulations).
Age and Dose Restrictions
Flupenthixol is generally prescribed for adults and adolescents above the age of 12.
Contraindications
Flupenthixol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to thioxanthene antipsychotics. It should not be administered to those suffering from severe CNS depression, blood dyscrasias, or severe hepatic impairment.
Other Medications to Avoid
Flupenthixol may interact with antihypertensives (e.g., beta-blockers such as atenolol or propanalol), diuretics (e.g., furosemide and toresimide), antiepileptics (e.g., carbamazepine and brivaracetam), and CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine).
Overdose and Missed Dose
Overdose of Flupenthixol may lead to symptoms like nervous system depression or stimulation. If you've taken more than the prescribed dose and observe these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
If you forget a dose of Flupenthixol, take it as soon as you remember it. However, do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects of Flupenthixol are temporary and generally harmless and resolve once the medication is discontinued. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor immediately.
Drinking plenty of water may help alleviate some common side effects like dry mouth and constipation.
Resting and avoiding heavy physical activity may help cope with drowsiness or fatigue caused by the medication.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Flupenthixol may make you feel drowsy or dizzy, which could impair your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Refrain from such activities if you experience these side effects.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
The safety of Flupenthixol during pregnancy and lactation is not well established. It should only be used if the doctor suggests that the benefits outweigh the risks.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, seizure disorders, diabetes, glaucoma, or prostatic hypertrophy should exercise caution when taking Flupenthixol. Caution is advised for patients with pheochromocytoma. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary in these cases.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Ensure a consistent sleep schedule for adequate rest.
Frequently asked questions
Is Flupenthixol a mood stabiliser?
Flupenthixol is not classified as a mood stabilizer. It is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to manage psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia.
How does Flupenthixol affect a person's mood?
Flupenthixol helps to manage symptoms of psychosis, including disordered thinking and abnormal behaviour, which may indirectly improve a person's mood. However, its direct impact on mood is not fully understood.
Can Flupenthixol cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is a common side effect of Flupenthixol. If you notice significant weight gain while taking this medicine, please consult your doctor.
Is Flupenthixol safe to take for a long period of time?
The duration of treatment with Flupenthixol can vary from individual to individual and is determined by the doctor based on the patient's condition and response to therapy.
Is it safe to stop taking Flupenthixol suddenly?
Please consult your doctor before stopping or altering the dose of Flupenthixol as abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Can Flupenthixol affect menstrual cycles in women?
One of the side effects of Flupenthixol can be hyperprolactinemia - elevated prolactin hormone, which can cause menstrual irregularities in women.
Does taking Flupenthixol require any specific tests or medical monitoring?
Treatment with Flupenthixol requires regular monitoring for therapeutic response, side effects, weight, blood pressure, blood glucose and lipids, liver function, and eye exams.
Flupenthixol in other salts
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