1. Trifluoperazine 5mg Tablet
Indications
- Schizophrenia (acute and chronic)
- Anxiety (short-term management, especially when associated with severe agitation)
- Severe nausea and vomiting (as an antiemetic)
Dosage and Administration
Schizophrenia: Start at 2-5 mg/day, increasing gradually to 10-15 mg/day depending on the response.
Anxiety: Start with 1-2 mg/day, increasing gradually as needed. Maximum dose: 6 mg/day.
Typically administered 1-3 times daily.
Can be taken with or without food.
Elderly or patients with liver/renal dysfunction: Start with lower doses and adjust cautiously.
Precautions
Extrapyramidal symptoms: Risk of tremors, rigidity, and tardive dyskinesia with prolonged use.
Sedation: Can cause drowsiness or sedation, especially in the beginning.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): A rare but serious condition, presenting with hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic instability.
Cardiovascular effects: Monitor for orthostatic hypotension and QT prolongation.
Avoid abrupt withdrawal to prevent rebound symptoms.
Use caution in elderly patients (especially those with dementia-related psychosis) due to increased risk of death.
2. Trihexyphenidyl Hydrochloride 2mg
Indications
- Parkinson's disease (to control tremors and rigidity)
- Extrapyramidal symptoms caused by antipsychotics (e.g., Parkinsonism, dystonia, tardive dyskinesia)
Dosage and Administration:
Parkinson's disease: Start with 1-2 mg/day, gradually increasing to 6-10 mg/day as tolerated.
Extrapyramidal symptoms: 1-2 mg/day, increasing gradually based on symptom severity.
Usually taken 1-3 times daily.
Can be taken with or without food.
Elderly or patients with liver/renal impairment: Dose may need adjustment and monitoring for anticholinergic side effects.
Precautions:
Anticholinergic side effects: Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and cognitive disturbances.
Glaucoma: Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.
Elderly: Higher sensitivity to side effects such as confusion, hallucinations, and sedation.
Urinary retention or BPH: Caution due to anticholinergic effects.
Use cautiously in patients with cognitive disorders or dementia.