Fluspirilene

An antipsychotic medication

Fluspirilene
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Fluspirilene is a typical antipsychotic medication primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia and other similar psychotic disorders. It belongs to the class of drugs known as diphenylbutylpiperidines.

Pharmacology

Fluspirilene acts as a dopamine receptor antagonist, which means it blocks the action of dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that is involved in mood, behavior, and cognition. By inhibiting dopamine receptors, fluspirilene helps to reduce the symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions.

Administration

Fluspirilene is unique among antipsychotics in that it is administered as a long-acting intramuscular injection. This allows for less frequent dosing, typically once a week, which can improve adherence in patients who have difficulty taking daily oral medications.

Side Effects

Like many antipsychotic medications, fluspirilene can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Other potential side effects include sedation, weight gain, and anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth and constipation.

History

Fluspirilene was developed in the 1960s and has been used in various countries for the treatment of schizophrenia. It is less commonly used today due to the availability of newer atypical antipsychotics that tend to have a more favorable side effect profile.

Related pages

• Antipsychotic
• Schizophrenia
• Dopamine receptor antagonist
• Extrapyramidal symptoms