Indications 

Fluphenazine is a medication classified as a phenothiazine and a neuroleptic, used to alleviate symptoms associated with schizophrenia.  

By altering the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, it can help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and erratic behavior in affected patients.  

This medication is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age or to manage behavioral issues in individuals with mental retardation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Take this medication with food or milk in case of stomach upset, unless advised otherwise by your doctor. 

This medication should be taken as per the prescription. Abruptly discontinuing the drug may worsen some conditions. Therefore, consult your doctor before stopping the medication suddenly. 

To achieve the maximum benefit from this medication, it should be used regularly at the same time(s) every day. The dosage of this medication depends on your age, medical condition, and response to therapy. 

The full benefit of this medication may take up to two weeks to become apparent. Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve or deteriorates. 

Side Effects 

Severe Side Effects

High doses or long-term use of fluphenazine can cause a serious movement disorder that may not be reversible. 

Fluphenazine may cause serious side effects, so call your doctor at once if you experience any of the following: 

• Uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking or eye movement) 
• Extreme drowsiness or light-headed feeling (like you might pass out) 
• Strange dreams or feeling restless or excited 
• Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights 
• Painful or difficult urination 
• Severe constipation, stomach pain, bloating 
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• A seizure 
• Signs of low white blood cell counts, such as:
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Mouth sores
  • Skin sores
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Trouble breathing
  • Feeling light-headed 

Common Side Effects 

• Drowsiness, headache, blurred vision 
• Problems with balance or muscle movement 
• Nausea, loss of appetite, constipation 
• Swelling, weight changes 
• Stuffy nose, dry mouth, or drooling 
• Increased sweating or urination 
• Breast swelling or tenderness 
• Impotence, trouble having an orgasm 

Caution 

Prior to taking fluphenazine, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist of any known allergies to this medication, other phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine and perphenazine, or any other allergies. This product may include inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other health issues. Consult your pharmacist for further details. 

Before using this medication, discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of brain damage, nervous system disorders (such as CNS depression, cerebrovascular insufficiency, brain tumors, encephalitis, and encephalopathy), blood disorders (such as leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and agranulocytosis), liver problems, breast cancer, eye problems (such as glaucoma), heart problems (such as very high or low blood pressure and mitral valve insufficiency), kidney problems, certain types of tumors (pheochromocytoma), seizures, exposure to phosphorus insecticides, chronic breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema, and frequent infections), low blood calcium, enlarged prostate, drug or alcohol dependency, Reye’s syndrome, or dehydration. 

Before undergoing any surgical procedures or diagnostic testing, inform your doctor or dentist of all products being used, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. 

This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) may exacerbate these side effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activities that require alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely. Consumption of alcoholic beverages should be avoided. Patients using marijuana (cannabis) should consult their doctor.