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This information outlines crucial safety considerations for the use of fluphenazine. It is essential to understand these warnings to ensure safe usage. Please discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

• Increased Mortality Risk in Elderly with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Fluphenazine is not recommended for treating dementia-related psychosis in individuals over 65, as it may lead to an increased risk of death. Inform your healthcare provider if you or a loved one has dementia before starting treatment.

• Movement Disorders: Fluphenazine may cause tardive dyskinesia (TD), a condition characterized by involuntary facial movements such as blinking or tongue protrusion. This risk is higher in older adults, particularly women, and those on long-term or high-dose therapy. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience these symptoms.

• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): This rare but serious condition can occur with fluphenazine use, marked by high fever, rapid heartbeat, muscle rigidity, and confusion. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms arise, as alternative medications may be necessary.

• Reduced White Blood Cell Count: The medication may decrease white blood cell levels, weakening your immune defense. Notify your healthcare provider promptly if you experience frequent infections or fevers, as medication adjustment might be required.

• Elevated Prolactin Levels: Fluphenazine can increase prolactin hormone levels, potentially causing symptoms like nipple discharge, breast enlargement, sexual dysfunction, menstrual irregularities, and bone weakness. Regular monitoring of prolactin levels by your healthcare provider may be necessary.

• Risks During Pregnancy: Use fluphenazine during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh potential risks to the fetus. Infants exposed to the drug in the third trimester may experience side effects and withdrawal. Inform your provider if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Contraindications: Do not use fluphenazine if you have any of the following conditions, as it may lead to severe health complications:

• Brain damage or suspected brain damage
• Concurrent use of large doses of hypnotics
• Coma
• Severe depression
• Significant blood or liver disorders

Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your health status and medical history.

Common side effects:

• Dystonia
• Involuntary movements
• Changes in blood pressure
• Weight fluctuations
• Fluid retention
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Increased salivation
• Drooling
• More sweating
• Frequent urination

Less common but important to monitor:

• Blurry vision
• Stuffy nose
• Fast heartbeat
• Bladder problems
• Skin issues
• Restlessness
• Strange or bizarre dreams

Serious side effects:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (nms)
• Serious infection
• Serious allergic reaction

Fluphenazine hydrochloride, an antipsychotic medication, can interact with various substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It's important to be aware of these interactions to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants: Combining fluphenazine with other CNS depressants, such as alcohol, opioids (like codeine or Oxycodone), benzodiazepines (such as Diazepam or Lorazepam), barbiturates, or certain antihistamines, can lead to enhanced sedative effects. This may result in excessive drowsiness, dizziness, or even respiratory depression. Patients should avoid alcohol and consult their healthcare provider before using other CNS depressants concurrently with fluphenazine.

Anticholinergic Agents: Concurrent use of fluphenazine with anticholinergic medications—including certain antihistamines, medications for overactive bladder, or drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease—can intensify anticholinergic side effects. These may include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and confusion. Caution is advised when these medications are used together.

Medications Affecting Heart Rhythm: Fluphenazine has the potential to prolong the QT interval, which can affect heart rhythm. Using it alongside other drugs that also prolong the QT interval, such as certain antiarrhythmics (like Amiodarone or quinidine), some antibiotics (like Clarithromycin), or other antipsychotics, may increase the risk of serious heart arrhythmias. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to assess this risk.

Blood Pressure Medications: Fluphenazine may counteract the effects of certain antihypertensive drugs, such as guanethidine, Methyldopa, and Clonidine, potentially reducing their effectiveness in lowering blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure and adjusting medication as necessary is important when these drugs are used together.

Levodopa and Dopaminergic Agents: Fluphenazine can diminish the effectiveness of levodopa and other medications used to treat Parkinson's disease by blocking dopamine receptors. Patients using these medications concurrently should be closely monitored for reduced therapeutic effects.

Lithium: When fluphenazine is used with lithium, there is an increased risk of neurotoxic effects, including symptoms like confusion, disorientation, and motor disturbances. Regular monitoring and prompt reporting of any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider are essential during combined therapy.

Antacids: The use of antacids may reduce the absorption and effectiveness of fluphenazine. To minimize this interaction, it's advisable to separate the administration times of these medications.

Smoking: Tobacco smoking can increase the metabolism of fluphenazine, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Patients are encouraged to discuss smoking cessation options with their healthcare provider to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Given the potential for these and other interactions, it's crucial for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and substances they are currently using. This comprehensive disclosure will help in managing and mitigating possible interactions, ensuring the safe and effective use of fluphenazine.