What is Perphenazine/Trilafon used for?

This medicine is used to improve psychotic behavior in conditions such as schizophrenia. It is also used to control severe nausea and vomiting in adults.

If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine is only to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

How should Perphenazine/Trilafon be stored?

Store between 36 to 77 degrees F. Store in the original container or in a tight, light resistant container.

General drug information:

When should Perphenazine/Trilafon not be taken?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine, sulfites, or to similar medications you have been sedated you are currently taking large doses of alcohol, painkillers, or antihistamines you have brain damage you have blood disorders you have liver or kidney damage you have an inability to fight infection

What precautions should I follow when taking Perphenazine/Trilafon?

Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have a history of convulsions if you have a history of depression if you have or history of any other medical condition like breast cancer, kidney, heart, liver or lung disease or breast cancer.

What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Perphenazine/Trilafon?

This medicine is capable of triggering a potentially fatal condition known as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome. Symptoms include high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, unstable blood pressure, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, and excessive sweating. If any of these symptoms develop, see your health care provider immediately and discontinue treatment with this medicine.

What are the side effects of Perphenazine/Trilafon?

Most severe:ÿ Involuntary and uncontrollable muscle movements (including the tongue, face, and mouth); tightness in the throat or jaw; numbness of the arms and legs; mental confusion; vision problems; seizures.

Most common:ÿ Headache; dizziness; drowsiness; confusion; tired feeling; sleeplessness; dry mouth; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; appetite loss; constipation.

Other:ÿ Urinary changes; stuffy nose; itching; hives; dry skin; sweating; changes in breasts; menstrual problems; changes in sex drive; skin discoloration. Withdrawal symptoms (eg, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shakiness) have occurred in patients on high doses of this medicine who suddenly stop taking it. Talk with your doctor before you stop taking this medicine. However, in general, this medicine does not cause any type of mental dependence.

How should I take Perphenazine/Trilafon?

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not drink alcohol or take central nervous depressants (eg, antihistamines, narcotics, barbiturates, atropine) while taking this medicine. Close medical supervision is necessary while taking this medicine. This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, especially during the first or second week. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. If dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting occurs, get up slowly and avoid sudden changes in postures. This medicine may cause sensitivity to light. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing until tolerance is known. This medicine should not be used in children under 12 years of age. Involuntary and uncontrollable muscle movements may develop in patients, being treated with this medicine. Discuss this possibility with your health care provider. A potentially fatal syndrome called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) has been associated with this medicine. Symptoms include the following: Increased body heat; rigid muscles; changes in mental abilities; irregular pulse and blood pressure; increased heart rate; sweating; irregular heart rhythm. Tell your doctor at once if any of these occur. Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medicine. Do not take more medicine than is prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist.