Zuclopenthixol

About zuclopenthixol

Zuclopenthixol works by restoring the balance of chemical transmitters in the brain. It is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia such as hearing, seeing or sensing things that are not there, mistaken beliefs and problems dealing with other people.

Zuclopenthixol decanoate is a depot injection that is a longer-acting form of zuclopenthixol. It is injected into the muscles of the buttocks and from there zuclopenthixol slowly enters the rest of the body. One injection can last from 1 to 4 weeks.

Before taking zuclopenthixol

Before taking zuclopenthixol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have any heart problems.
• If you have liver, kidney or breathing problems.
• If you have Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, or depression.
• If you have phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands).
• If you have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease), prostate problems, or glaucoma.
• If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
• If you have ever had jaundice or a blood disorder.
• If you are more than 50 years of age.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take zuclopenthixol

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• The injection form of zuclopenthixol will be given to you by your doctor or nurse.
• If you are taking zuclopenthixol tablets, take them exactly as directed by your doctor and try to take them at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You may have to take zuclopenthixol for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Do not stop taking zuclopenthixol without first speaking with your doctor. Your doctor will probably want to reduce the dose you are taking gradually, as stopping treatment suddenly can cause problems.
• Zuclopenthixol can cause drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs that could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. This is especially important when you first begin treatment with zuclopenthixol.
• It is best to not drink alcohol while you are taking zuclopenthixol as it will increase feelings of drowsiness.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can zuclopenthixol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

• Muscle stiffness, a high temperature, abnormal paleness, losing consciousness, sweating and a fast heartbeat.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store zuclopenthixol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines