Indications
Stelazine is a prescription medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia, but it can also be used to treat anxiety or psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. It is the brand name for Trifluoperazine, an antipsychotic medication that belongs to the class of drugs called phenothiazines.
Trifluoperazine works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin. Stelazine comes in the form of oral tablets and the dosage may vary based on the individual's condition and other factors.
Uses and Dosage
Stelazine is an oral medication that comes in tablet form. It can be taken with or without food, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. The dosage may vary based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. In children, the dosage is also based on weight. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully to reduce the risk of side effects.
To get the most benefit from Stelazine, take the tablet regularly at the same time(s) each day. Although some effects may be noticeable soon after starting, it may take 2 to 3 weeks before the full benefit is achieved.
Do not stop taking the tablet without consulting your doctor, as some conditions may worsen if the drug is suddenly stopped. Additionally, sudden withdrawal may cause symptoms such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shakiness. If you need to stop taking the medication, your doctor may reduce the dose gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
The initial dose for adults is typically 2-5 mg orally two times a day. The maintenance dose can range from 15-20mg/day, but the recommended dose is generally 1-2 mg orally two times a day. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient's weight and the severity of their symptoms. The recommended starting dose for physically fit adults is 5mg twice a day, after which it may be increased to 15mg/day, if necessary.
Make sure to inform your healthcare provider of any side effects or concerns that may develop while using Stelazine or any other medication.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Stelazine (Trifluoperazine):
- Anxiety
- Blurred vision
- Breast swelling or discharge
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Impotence
- Missed menstrual periods
- Stuffy nose
- Swelling in your hands or feet
- Tiredness
- Trouble having an orgasm
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Stelazine (Trifluoperazine):
- Joint pain or swelling with fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, chest pain, vomiting
- Pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding
- Patchy skin color
- Seizures
- Slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, or slow breathing (breathing may stop)
- Tremors, drooling, trouble swallowing, problems with balance or walking
- Twitching or uncontrollable movements of your eyes, lips, tongue, face, arms, or legs
- Unusual thoughts or behavior
- Urinating less than usual or not at all
- Very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, feeling like you might pass out
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Form and Strength
Stelazine (Trifluoperazine) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Trifluoperazine: Tablet
- 2 mg
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
Caution
- Stelazine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to operate machinery or perform certain activities that require mental alertness.
- Trifluoperazine may increase the risk of developing a movement disorder called tardive dyskinesia, which causes repetitive, involuntary movements of the face or body. This condition can be irreversible in some cases.
- Stelazine can also cause a range of other side effects, such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, weight gain, and difficulty urinating.
- Trifluoperazine may interact with other medications, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opioids, and other drugs that affect the central nervous system. This can potentially result in dangerous side effects or impaired functioning.
- Stelazine should not be used by individuals with a history of certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, blood disorders, or heart disease.
- Trifluoperazine may also not be suitable for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may cause harm to the developing fetus or infant.
- Stelazine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting upon standing up too quickly from a lying or seated position, especially in older adults.
- Stelazine may also increase the risk of seizures or convulsions in some individuals.
- This medication may cause changes in blood glucose levels and may exacerbate diabetes or make it more difficult to manage.
- Trifluoperazine should not be abruptly stopped, or the dosage changed without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- The use of Trifluoperazine may cause changes in mood or behavior, including depression, anxiety, or agitation.
- Stelazine may also cause a decrease in blood pressure or heart rate, which may be problematic for some individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for trifluoperazine to take effect?
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. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Is trifluoperazine safe?
Trifluoperazine can cause a rare but life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Symptoms of NMS include high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. If you notice any of these symptoms, get medical help immediately.
What is the half-life of trifluoperazine?
The elimination of trifluoperazine from the blood is multiphasic with an α phase elimination half-life of about 3.6 hours and a terminal elimination half-life of about 22 hours.
Is trifluoperazine strong?
Trifluoperazine is a long‐established high potency typical antipsychotic drug used in the treatment of schizophrenia and schizophrenia‐like illnesses.
REVIEWS