Sulpiride

About sulpiride

Sulpiride works by acting on several chemical transmitters in the brain.

It is effective in helping symptoms such as hearing voices, loss of energy, thought disturbances, difficulties communicating with others, worry, depression, overcoming feelings of wanting to be alone as well as other symptoms of schizophrenia.

Before taking sulpiride

Before taking sulpiride make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from any heart problems.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney or breathing problems.
• If you suffer from Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression, or myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you suffer from prostate problems, phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands) or glaucoma.
• If you suffer from porphyria or another blood disorder.
• If you suffer from behaviour that makes you agitated, feel aggressive or easily get excitable.
• If you suffer from postural hypotension (if you become dizzy when getting up from a sitting or lying position).
• If you have had jaundice.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take sulpiride

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take sulpiride exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to get into the habit of taking sulpiride at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• You may have to take sulpiride for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of sulpiride contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible, take the container with you, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe to take alongside sulpiride.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor, so your progress can be checked.
• Alcohol will increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Before having any surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the surgeon, doctor or dentist that you are taking sulpiride.

Can sulpiride 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.

Sulpiride is usually well tolerated with only minor side-effects occurring.

Drowsiness, weariness, agitation, diarrhoea or constipation, excitement and sleep disturbances may occur, as may changes in body weight and sexual drive. There may also be changes in menstruation (periods), breast problems, or sexual problems. Lowered blood pressure, skin rashes, difficulty in passing water and blurred vision may also occur. In a small number of people there may be shaking, restlessness, and abnormal face or body movements - speak with your doctor if these become troublesome. Very rarely, convulsions have occurred.

Important: If you notice jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), or experience a skin rash, dark urine, itching or swelling of the tongue; or if you experience 'flu-like' symptoms such as sweating, stiffness, a high body temperature, abnormal paleness and a racing heartbeat, then contact your doctor or go to the Accident & Emergency department of your local hospital straight away.

How to store sulpiride

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

Important information about all medicines