Flupentixol

A typical antipsychotic medication

Flupentixol
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Flupentixol, also known as flupenthixol, is a typical antipsychotic medication primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It belongs to the class of drugs known as thioxanthenes, which are similar to phenothiazines in their chemical structure and pharmacological effects.

Pharmacology

Flupentixol acts as an antagonist at various neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, including dopamine D1 and D2 receptors, as well as serotonin 5-HT2 receptors. This action helps to alleviate symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorders by modulating the activity of these neurotransmitters.

Mechanism of Action

The primary mechanism of action of flupentixol is the blockade of dopamine D2 receptors. This reduces the overactivity of dopamine pathways in the brain, which is thought to be a contributing factor in the development of psychotic symptoms. By reducing dopamine activity, flupentixol helps to stabilize mood and reduce psychotic symptoms.

Clinical Uses

Flupentixol is used in the management of several psychiatric conditions:

• Schizophrenia: It is effective in reducing both positive symptoms (such as hallucinations and delusions) and negative symptoms (such as social withdrawal and lack of motivation).
• Depressive Disorders: In some cases, flupentixol is used in combination with antidepressants to treat depression, particularly when accompanied by psychotic features.
• Bipolar Disorder: It may be used as an adjunctive treatment in bipolar disorder to manage manic episodes.

Administration and Dosage

Flupentixol is available in various forms, including oral tablets and long-acting injectable formulations. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the specific condition being treated and the individual patient's response to the medication.

Oral Formulation

The oral form is typically administered daily, with doses adjusted based on therapeutic response and side effects.

Depot Injection

The depot injection form of flupentixol is administered intramuscularly, usually every two to four weeks. This formulation is particularly useful for patients who have difficulty adhering to daily oral medication regimens.

Side Effects

Common side effects of flupentixol include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and weight gain. More serious side effects can include extrapyramidal symptoms such as tardive dyskinesia, akathisia, and parkinsonism.

Contraindications

Flupentixol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of seizures, cardiovascular disease, or liver impairment.

Related Pages

• Antipsychotic
• Schizophrenia
• Dopamine receptor antagonist
• Thioxanthene