What is this medication for?
Trifluoperazine belongs to the class of medications called phenothiazines. This medication is used for the treatment of excessive anxiety, tension, and agitation as well as for the management of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Stelazine® by Glaxosmithkline is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual starting dose of trifluoperazine for people with anxiety is 1 mg or 2 mg twice a day. A maximum of 6 mg per day is recommended and no more than 12 weeks of treatment is recommended.
The usual starting dose of trifluoperazine for people with schizophrenia is 2 mg to 5 mg twice daily. The best response to the medication usually occurs about 2 or 3 weeks after starting it. The eventual trifluoperazine dose varies widely according to condition being treated and needs of person taking the medication.
The oral concenrate form should be mixed with 2 fluid ounces or more of diluent just prior to administration. It may be mixed with water, milk, coffee, tea, fruit juice, or carbonated drinks.
Trifluoperazine may be taken with or without food. If stomach irritation occurs, the medication should be taken after food or with 8 ounces of water.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Trifluoperazine should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic or hypersensitive to trifluoperazaine or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is comatose or heavily sedated
- is taking large doses of central nervous system depressants (e.g., barbiturates, alcohol, narcotic analgesics, or antihistamines)
- has blood disorders
- has bone marrow depression
- has liver damage