iPsychology

Perphenazine ( Etrafon, Trilafon ) is an antipsychotic drug of intermediate-potency. Used in the treatment of disorganized and psychotic thinking. Also used to help treat false perceptions ( e.g. hallucinations or delusions ).

Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium should not be taken one hour before taking this drug and never right after.

Only take this drug and Heterocyclic antidepressants with careful monitoring. Also check with your physician if you are taking central nervous system depressants like antihistamines, hay fever medicines, sedatives, narcotics, anesthetics, barbiturates or muscle relaxants. Also check with your physician if you are taking a vasodilator ( drug that dilate blood vessels ).

If you smoke blood levels of this drug need to be taken. Smoking drops this drugs level in the blood.

The habit-forming potential is none, but long term use may lead to Tardive Dyskinesia.

Do not take this drug if you are pregnant ( Only take if the mother's or baby's life is endangered ).

Do not take this drug if planning to become pregnant. Do not take if you are breast-feeding.

Do not give this drug to anyone under twelve. Only use drug in small doses at first if over sixty and with close monitoring. Also if over sixty be careful when standing up because blood pressure may be lowered enough to impair balance.

Do not use if: You had negative reactions to this drug or to phenothiazine in the past.

Inform your Doctor if:

• you had negative reactions to this drug or to phenothiazine in the past.
• if you have epilepsy or asthma.
• if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription drug.
• if you plan to be under anesthesia or having any surgery in the next few months, also if you will be undergoing any medical tests.
• if you are on a special diet ( low-salt / low-sugar or any other.)

Common: Lethargy / sleepiness, low blood pressure, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, stiffness, blurred vision or difficulty urinating.

Rare: Dizziness, racing heartbeat / palpitations, weakness, sexual problems, restlessness, skin rash, seizures, low white blood cell count, tremors, involuntary facial / tongue movements or reduced urinary output.

See physician always: Dizziness, racing heartbeat / palpitations, weakness, sexual problems, restlessness, skin rash, seizures, low white blood cell count, tremors, low blood pressure, difficulty urinating, stiffness, involuntary facial / tongue movements or reduced urinary output.

See physician if severe: Lethargy / sleepiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation or weight gain.

See physician NOW: Reduced urinary output.

Stop taking and see physician NOW: Seizures.