Stelazine (Trifluoperazine)

Do’s

• Take Stelazine exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, with or without food.
• Take it at the same time(s) each day for consistent results.
• Be patient, as it may take 2-3 weeks to feel the full effects.
• Talk to your healthcare provider before stopping Stelazine abruptly. They will help you gradually reduce the dose to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or doesn't improve.

Don'ts

• Don't: take more or less Stelazine than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't: skip doses or stop taking Stelazine without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't: expect immediate relief - Stelazine takes time to work fully.
• Don't: operate machinery or drive if Stelazine causes dizziness.

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Skin reactions
• Rash
• Dry mouth
• Numbness or tingling
• Upset stomach
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Weakness
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Breast enlargement
• Missed menstrual periods
• Decreased sexual ability in men

Serious Side Effects:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) with symptoms such as fever, muscle stiffness/pain/tenderness/weakness, severe tiredness, severe confusion, sweating, fast/irregular heartbeat, dark urine, and signs of kidney problems
• Serious allergic reaction with symptoms including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing
• Abnormal muscle contractions
• Difficulty breathing and swallowing
• Neck spasms
• Low blood pressure
• Seizures
• Urinary retention
• Worsening of glaucoma
• Changes in blood glucose levels

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Stelazine,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to trifluoperazine (Stelazine) or other phenothiazine medications.

Disclose your medical history to your healthcare provider, especially if you have any of the following conditions:

• Liver problems
• Kidney problems
• Heart problems (various)
• Low blood pressure
• Blockage in the intestines
• Glaucoma
• Seizures
• Enlarged prostate
• Breathing problems (asthma, emphysema, etc.)
• Blood disorders
• Low blood calcium
• Dehydration
• Breast cancer
• Brain disorders/tumors/injuries
• Exposure to organophosphate insecticides
• Pheochromocytoma
• Drug/alcohol/substance abuse
• Parkinson's disease

Stelazine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision (driving, operating machinery) until you know how it affects you. Alcohol and marijuana (cannabis) can worsen these effects. 

Stelazine may also increase sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure, wear sunscreen and protective clothing, and avoid tanning booths/sunlamps.

Inform your healthcare provider or healthcare provider about Stelazine use before any surgery or imaging procedures involving contrast dye.

Stelazine may decrease sweating, increasing the risk of heatstroke. Avoid strenuous activities or hot environments. Drink plenty of fluids, dress lightly, and seek cool-down measures if you overheat.

Children and older adults may be more sensitive to Stelazine's side effects, particularly uncontrolled movements, dizziness, and confusion. This can increase fall risk.

Stelazine should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Stelazine passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Stelazine is not approved for dementia-related behavior problems in older adults. There may be an increased risk of serious side effects with this use. Discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider.

Stelazine may interact with other medications. Provide your healthcare provider with a list of all your medications to avoid potential complications.