Carfenazine

Carfenazine is a typical antipsychotic drug of the phenothiazine class used for the treatment of psychosis, particularly those of schizophrenia, and manic phases of bipolar disorder. It was introduced by Janssen Pharmaceutica in 1970.

Etymology

The term "Carfenazine" is derived from the chemical name of the drug, which is 10-[3-[4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazinyl]propyl]phenothiazine.

Pharmacology

Carfenazine acts primarily by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, thereby reducing the activity of dopamine, which is responsible for the symptoms of psychosis and schizophrenia. It also has some anticholinergic properties, which can help to reduce the side effects of other medications.

Side Effects

Like other antipsychotic drugs, Carfenazine can cause a range of side effects. These can include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. In rare cases, it can also cause more serious side effects such as tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by involuntary movements of the face and body.

Related Terms

• Phenothiazine
• Antipsychotic
• Psychosis
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Dopamine
• Anticholinergic
• Tardive dyskinesia

See Also

• List of antipsychotic drugs
• Pharmacology of antipsychotics

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