Benperidol

About benperidol

Benperidol works by interfering with the chemical transmitters in the brain. It is used to treat socially unacceptable behaviour caused by mental illness.

Before taking benperidol

Before taking benperidol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney, heart or breathing problems.
• If you suffer from Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression or glaucoma (high pressure within the eye).
• 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 suffer from movement problems such as twitching, muscle stiffness or restlessness.
• If you have ever had jaundice or a blood disorder.
• If you are more than 50 years of age.
• 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 benperidol

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take benperidol exactly as directed by your doctor. Swallow the tablets with a small glass of water.
• Try to get into the habit of taking benperidol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do miss a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up.
• You may have to take benperidol 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.
• Benperidol 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

• If you buy any medicines, check with your pharmacist which are safe to take alongside benperidol.
• 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 any feelings of drowsiness. It is best to avoid alcoholic drinks.
• Smoking may cause benperidol to be less effective.
• Benperidol can cause some people's skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Avoid sunbeds and try to avoid the sun until you know how your skin reacts or use a suncream higher than factor 15.

Can benperidol 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.

Let your doctor know if you experience any of the following effects: jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), shakiness, abnormal face and body movements, restlessness, uncontrollable movements of the tongue, face, and jaw.

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

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

How to store benperidol

• 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