Fluanxol (Flupenthixol)

Description

Indications

Flupenthixol is employed for the treatment of mental/mood conditions, including schizophrenia and psychosis. This medication facilitates clearer thinking, reduces hallucinations and negative thoughts, and enhances the ability to function in daily life. Flupentixol falls under the class of medications known as thioxanthenes and is categorized as a neuroleptic. Its mechanism of action involves influencing the balance of natural substances in the brain.

Uses and Dosage

Administer this medication orally, with or without food, according to your doctor’s instructions, typically three times daily.

The dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will adjust the dose to identify the most effective amount for you. Initially, your doctor may recommend a low dose, with gradual increases to minimize the risk of side effects like stiff muscles. Adhere closely to your doctor’s instructions.

Consistently take this medication to maximize its benefits. Establish a routine by taking it at the same times each day. The full therapeutic effects may not manifest immediately; it might take 2 to 4 weeks before experiencing the complete benefits.

Avoid discontinuing this medication without consulting your doctor, as stopping it abruptly could worsen your condition. If a reduction in dosage is necessary, your doctor will guide you through a gradual decrease.

Inform your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen.

Side Effects

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

• changes in menstrual periods
• constipation
• decreased interest in sexual activity
• decreased sexual ability
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• fatigue
• increased production of saliva
• increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
• increased sweating

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

• blurred vision or other eye problems
• circular eye movement
• decreased blood pressure (fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness)
• difficult urination
• fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• mask-like face
• muscle spasms, especially of the neck and back
• new or worsening constipation
• severe restlessness or need to keep moving
• shuffling walk
• skin rash
• stiffness of arms and legs
• trembling and shaking of fingers and hands

Caution

• Before taking flupentixol, communicate certain information to your doctor or pharmacist. Inform them about any allergies you may have, specifically to flupentixol or other thioxanthenes like thiothixene and zuclopenthixol. Disclose any other allergies you may have, as inactive ingredients in the product could potentially cause allergic reactions or other complications.
• Prior to using this medication, share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blood problems, high or low blood pressure, brain issues, blood flow problems, breast cancer, glaucoma, slowed gut movement, kidney problems, liver problems, Parkinson’s disease, a specific type of tumor (pheochromocytoma), seizures, difficulty urinating (e.g., due to an enlarged prostate), or a history of drug/alcohol dependency.
• This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do them safely. Limit alcohol consumption, and discuss marijuana use with your doctor.
• Flupentixol may increase sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing. Report any sunburn or skin issues to your doctor promptly.
• Be cautious of heat-related issues, as this medication may reduce sweating, making heat stroke more likely. Avoid overheating activities, particularly in hot weather, and stay hydrated. Seek medical help if you experience persistent fever, mental/mood changes, headache, or dizziness.
• Avoid contact with certain pesticides (organophosphates).
• This medication may affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation), leading to serious complications. Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking and any relevant medical conditions.
• Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, muscle spasms, uncontrolled movements, and QT prolongation.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only if essential, as it may rarely cause symptoms in newborns. If you plan to become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Flupentixol passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication.

Form and Strength

Fluanxol is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Fluanxol tablet:
  • 0.5 mg
  • 3 mg

FAQ

Can Fluanxol cause weight gain?

This medication may cause weight gain, mostly with prolonged use.

Does Fluanxol make you feel tired?

There is a risk of feeling drowsy and dizzy when using Fluanxol especially at the start of your treatment. If this happens do not drive or use any tools or machines until you know you are not affected in this way.

Resources

1. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.998.pdf
2. https://patient.info/medicine/flupentixol-tablets-depixol-fluanxol
3. https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Fluanxol.aspx#:~:text=Fluanxol%20is%20used%20for%20the,of%20medicines%20called%20thioxanthene%20neuroleptics
4. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/fluanxol-tablets#adverseeffects
5. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/flupentixol-oral