Stelazine
(trifluoperazine)
Treats anxiety and schizophrenia.
Our bottom line
Stelazine (trifluoperazine) can be used to treat schizophrenia, but you might have trouble controlling your movements.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (trifluoperazine)
Upsides
- Stelazine (trifluoperazine) is one of the recommended medicines for schizophrenia.
- It’s approved in children age 6 and older.
- Available in generic.
- Compared to other similar medicines, you're less likely to feel dehydrated or have problems with your heart with Stelazine (trifluoperazine).
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What to expect from trifluoperazine, on one page
Download Fact SheetDownsides
- If you take Stelazine (trifluoperazine) for more than 12 weeks or are taking high doses of Stelazine (trifluoperazine), you’re at a higher risk for being unable to control your movements.
- Stelazine (trifluoperazine) can cause agitation and trouble sleeping. These symptoms can sometimes disappear, or there are other treatments you can take to help.
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What to expect from trifluoperazine, on one page
Download Fact SheetStelazine (trifluoperazine) is a first generation (typical) antipsychotic. It works in schizophrenia by making the brain less sensitive to changes in dopamine, which helps regulate your mood.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (trifluoperazine)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
Prices and coupons
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$22.25 - Get free coupon
$22.25
What to expect when you take Stelazine (trifluoperazine) for Schizophrenia
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Lower blood pressure
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Changes in blood cell counts
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Skin rashes
Side effect rates for Stelazine (trifluoperazine)
Risks and Warnings for Stelazine (trifluoperazine)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › People age 65 and older with dementia and psychosis
Older people who have dementia and psychosis have a higher risk of death if they take medicines like Stelazine (trifluoperazine). They shouldn't be given this medicine.
This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.
Pharmacist Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this drug for?
This medication treats generalized non-psychotic anxiety.Common concerns from people taking Stelazine (trifluoperazine)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?The FDA hasn’t classified this medicine’s effects on unborn babies. Talk with your doctor about this medicine if you’re pregnant or planning on it.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- Don't drink alcohol while taking Stelazine (trifluoperazine).