Stelazine (Trifluoperazine)

Description

Indications

Trifluoperazine is prescribed to address the symptoms of schizophrenia, a mental condition characterized by disrupted or unconventional thought patterns, a diminished interest in life, and pronounced or unsuitable emotional responses. It is also used temporarily to alleviate anxiety in individuals who have not experienced relief from other pharmaceutical interventions. Trifluoperazine falls within the category of conventional antipsychotic medications and functions by reducing abnormal levels of mental excitement in the brain.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, following your doctor’s instructions, which are typically once or twice daily.

The prescribed dosage depends on your medical condition, age, and how you respond to the treatment. For children, the dosage is also determined by their weight. Your doctor may recommend initiating this medication at a low dose and gradually increasing it to minimize the risk of side effects. Adhere closely to your doctor’s guidance in this regard.

To derive the maximum benefit from this medication, take it consistently at the same time(s) each day. While you may notice some effects shortly after starting the medication, it may take 2 to 3 weeks before you experience the full therapeutic benefits.

Avoid discontinuing this medication without consulting your doctor, as abruptly ceasing treatment can exacerbate certain conditions. Abrupt cessation may also result in symptoms such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and tremors. To mitigate these symptoms when discontinuing this medication, your doctor may recommend a gradual dose reduction.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• dizziness, feeling unsteady, or having trouble keeping your balance
• blurred vision
• dry mouth
• stuffed nose
• nausea
• difficulty urinating
• widening or narrowing of the pupils (black circles in the middle of the eyes)
• constipation
• changes in appetite
• weight gain
• blank facial expression
• shuffling walk
• agitation
• jitteriness
• unusual, slowed, or uncontrollable movements of any part of the body
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• headache
• extreme tiredness
• weakness
• breast enlargement
• breast milk production
• missed menstrual periods
• decreased sexual ability in men

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• fever
• muscle stiffness
• falling
• confusion
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• sweating
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• flu-like symptoms
• sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
• neck cramps
• tongue that sticks out of the mouth
• tightness in the throat
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fine, worm-like tongue movements
• uncontrollable, rhythmic face, mouth, or jaw movements
• seizures
• blisters
• rash
• hives
• itching
• swelling of the eyes, face, mouth, lips, tongue, throat, arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• erection that lasts for hours
• vision loss, especially in low light

Caution

Before initiating trifluoperazine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to trifluoperazine, other phenothiazines, or any other substances. This medication may contain inactive components capable of triggering allergic reactions or other adverse effects.

Prior to commencing this medication, provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, with a special emphasis on the following: liver problems, kidney issues, heart conditions, low blood pressure, intestinal blockages, glaucoma, seizures, enlarged prostate, respiratory problems, blood disorders, low blood calcium levels, dehydration, breast cancer, brain disorders/tumors/injuries, exposure to organophosphate insecticides, pheochromocytoma, substance abuse involving drugs/alcohol, or Parkinson’s disease.

This medication may induce dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects. Consequently, avoid activities that require alertness or clear vision, such as driving or operating machinery, until you are confident in your ability to do so safely.

Trifluoperazine may heighten your sensitivity to sunlight. Restrict your sun exposure, steer clear of tanning beds and sunlamps, use sunscreen, and don protective clothing while outdoors. Notify your doctor promptly if you experience sunburn or skin redness/blisters.

This medication might reduce your perspiration, increasing the risk of heat stroke. Avoid activities that may lead to overheating, like strenuous work or exercise in hot weather or hot tub use. In hot weather, stay hydrated and dress lightly. Seek a cool place to rest if you overheat, and promptly obtain medical assistance if you experience an unrelenting fever, changes in mental state, headaches, or dizziness.

Children may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly uncontrolled movements, especially when they are unwell (e.g., with a viral infection or dehydration).

In older adults, the side effects of this medication may be more pronounced, including dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, confusion, uncontrollable movements, constipation, difficulty urinating, or blurred vision. These effects can increase the risk of falls.

During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Infants born to mothers who have taken this drug during the last trimester of pregnancy may rarely exhibit symptoms like muscle stiffness or tremors, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or persistent crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, especially within their first month, promptly inform your doctor.

Since untreated mental/mood conditions, such as schizophrenia or psychotic disorders, can be severe, do not discontinue this medication without your doctor’s guidance. If you are planning to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or suspect pregnancy, discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor.

This medication can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Stelazine is available in the following forms and strengths:

• trifluoperazine tablet:
  • 2mg
  • 5mg
  • 10mg
  • 20mg

FAQ

Is Stelazine good for anxiety?

Stelazine may also be used as a short-term treatment for people who experience anxiety that have not responded to other medications.

Does Stelazine cause weight gain?

Weight gain and a larger appetite has been reported with Stelazine.

Resources

1. https://www.goodtherapy.org/drugs/stelazine-trifluoperazine.html#:~:text=Stelazine%20may%20also%20be%20used,cure%20schizophrenia%20or%20anxiety%20issues
2. https://www.goodrx.com/trifluoperazine/what-is
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682121.html
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6572/stelazine-oral/details
5. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/trifluoperazine-tablet-oral
6. https://www.drugs.com/sfx/stelazine-side-effects.html