Trifluoperazine

About trifluoperazine

Trifluoperazine works by interfering with the chemical transmitters in the brain. It is effective in helping symptoms of schizophrenia such as hearing voices, loss of energy, thought disturbances, difficulties communicating with others, worry, depression, and overcoming feelings of wanting to be alone. It is also useful in treating agitation and behavioural problems. It can also be used to treat severe nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting (being sick).

Before taking trifluoperazine

Before taking trifluoperazine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney, breathing or heart problems.
• If you suffer from Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression or glaucoma.
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease), prostate problems, or phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands).
• If you suffer from postural hypotension (if you become dizzy when getting up from a sitting or lying position).
• If you have had jaundice or a blood disorder.
• 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 or complementary medicines.

How to take trifluoperazine

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• Take trifluoperazine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to get into the habit of taking trifluoperazine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do miss a dose, just take the next dose when it is due. Never take two doses together.
• You may have to take trifluoperazine for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Do not stop taking these tablets 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 complications.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of trifluoperazine 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 trifluoperazine.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will probably have to undergo tests during your treatment to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
• 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 this medicine.
• Trifluoperazine can cause some people's skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Do not use sunbeds and avoid the sun until you know how your skin reacts or use a suncream higher than factor 15.

Can trifluoperazine 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.

Other less common effects include restlessness, mood changes, problems sleeping, headache, confusion, constipation, diarrhoea, tummy ache, a stuffy nose, problems urinating (passing water), changes in menstrual periods, breast problems, sexual problems, weight gain, skin rashes or a purple tint to the skin and eyes, loss of appetite or fever (high temperature).

Let your doctor know straight away if you experience any of the following symptoms: unexplained bleeding or bruising, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), shakiness, abnormal face and body movements, or uncontrollable movements of the tongue, face or jaw.

IMPORTANT: If you experience 'flu like' symptoms such as stiffness, high temperature, abnormal paleness, leaking bladder and a racing heartbeat contact your doctor immediately or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital straight away.

How to store trifluoperazine

• 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