Fluphenazine

Fluphenazine can be used to treat certain psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. The medication helps control symptoms by blocking or lessening the effects of dopamine in the brain. Fluphenazine is available by prescription and comes in tablet, liquid, or injection form. Your prescribed dose will depend on factors such as the severity of your condition and other medications you are taking.

What Is Fluphenazine?

Fluphenazine (Prolixin®) is a prescription medicine known as a "typical antipsychotic" that has been licensed to treat psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia.
 

Who Makes It?

The medication was originally manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb. Although brand-name fluphenazine is no longer manufactured, a generic version is still available. It is made by several different companies.
 
(Click What Is Fluphenazine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Fluphenazine Work?

Fluphenazine belongs to a group of medications called typical (or first-generation) antipsychotic medications. In particular, it is part of a group of medications called phenothiazines. It is not entirely known how the medication works. However, it is known to block or lessen the effects of dopamine, a chemical in the brain. Dopamine may be elevated in people with schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders.
 
However, fluphenazine is not a cure for schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders. It only helps to control symptoms (see Symptoms of Schizophrenia).
 
(Fluphenazine Continued: Page 2)
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation