Indications 

Panectyl is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression. It has sedative effects and is used to relieve itching, coughing, and sneezing.  

Panectyl contains trimeprazine as the active ingredient. Trimeprazine belongs to the phenothiazine derivative class and is primarily used as an antihistamine. It works by blocking certain natural substances such as histamine and acetylcholine that are produced by the body during an allergic reaction.  

Use and Dosage 

Panectyl comes in the form of a 2.5 and 5 mg tablet to take it orally, either with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed, or chewed. Take the medication at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level of the drug in the body. 

The recommended therapeutic dosage of Panectyl will depend on the individual’s age, weight, and medical condition. However, the daily dose should rarely exceed 15 mg. Follow the doctor’s instructions and the instructions on the prescription label carefully. Panectyl should not be stopped suddenly as it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Talk to a doctor before discontinuing the medication, as they may recommend a gradual tapering of the dosage to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms. 

If you miss a dose of Panectyl, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the 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. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Blurred vision 
• Constipation 
• Dizziness  
• Drowsiness 
• Dry mouth 
• Itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat) 
• Rash 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

Serious Side Effects 

• Allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing 
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
• Easy bruising/bleeding 
• Face/muscle twitching 
• Fast/irregular heartbeat 
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations 
• Mental/mood changes (such as hallucinations, depression, nervousness) 
• Movement disorders such as tremors, muscle stiffness, or uncontrollable movements 
• Seizure 
• Severe drowsiness or sedation 
• Shaking (tremors) 
• Trouble urinating 
• Uncontrolled movements 

Cautions 

• Trimeprazine can cause drowsiness and impair the ability to operate machinery or drive a vehicle, so patients should avoid these activities until they know how the medication affects them. 
• Patients should avoid alcohol and other sedatives while taking Panectyl, as these can increase the risk of side effects. 
• Trimeprazine may not be safe for use in all ages of children. 
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate) and heart block are possible side effects of Panectyl, and patients with heart problems should use caution when taking Trimeprazine tablets. 
• Panectyl may produce bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways) in sensitive patients. 
• Patients should use caution when combining Trimeprazine with other medications, as this can increase the risk of side effects. 
• Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms while taking Panectyl. 
• Trimeprazine may cause anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, and constipation. Patients with a history of glaucoma, urinary retention, or gastrointestinal obstruction should use caution when taking this medication. 
• Trimeprazine can cause a decrease in the seizure threshold, so patients with a history of seizures should use caution when taking this medication. 
• Trimeprazine may interact with other medications, including other antihistamines, antidepressants, and medications that affect the liver enzymes that metabolize Panectyl. Patients should speak with their healthcare provider before combining Panectyl with other medications. 
• Panectyl may not be safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may harm the developing fetus or nursing infant. Patients should speak with their healthcare provider before taking this medication if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. 
• Panectyl may cause skin sensitivity to sunlight or UV light, so patients should use caution when exposed to these sources of light and wear protective clothing and sunscreen when necessary.