Freten
Generic Name
Flupentixol Dihydrochloride
Manufacturer
Acme Pharmaceuticals
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| freten 3 mg tablet | ৳ 3.00 | ৳ 45.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Flupentixol, a thioxanthene derivative, is an antipsychotic primarily used for the management of psychosis, but at low doses, it also exhibits anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For anxiety/depression: Typically 0.5 mg to 3 mg daily, usually in divided doses. For psychosis: Initial dose 3-9 mg daily, adjusted to response, max 18 mg daily.
Elderly
Lower initial doses are recommended, typically half of the adult dose, with gradual titration based on response and tolerability.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage adjustment may be necessary in severe renal impairment, though extensively metabolized in liver.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Flupentixol blocks postsynaptic dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the brain. At low doses, it also has effects on serotonin (5-HT2) and alpha-adrenergic receptors, contributing to its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects may be seen within hours for acute symptoms, but full therapeutic effect for depression/anxiety can take weeks.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via feces (approximately 60%) and urine (approximately 40%) as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 35 hours (for oral formulations).
Absorption
Well absorbed orally. Peak plasma concentrations reached within 4-8 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via sulfoxidation, N-dealkylation, and glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Acute alcohol, barbiturate, or opioid intoxication.
- Circulatory collapse, depressed consciousness.
- Severe central nervous system depression.
- Severe Parkinson's disease.
- Phaeochromocytoma.
Drug Interactions
QT-prolonging drugs
Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Anticholinergic Agents
Potentiated anticholinergic effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision).
Dopaminergic Agents (e.g., Levodopa)
Antagonism of dopaminergic effects.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, opioids)
Increased sedation and CNS depression.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, coma, extrapyramidal symptoms, hypotension, and shock. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Flupentixol is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised during breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Acute alcohol, barbiturate, or opioid intoxication.
- Circulatory collapse, depressed consciousness.
- Severe central nervous system depression.
- Severe Parkinson's disease.
- Phaeochromocytoma.
Drug Interactions
QT-prolonging drugs
Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Anticholinergic Agents
Potentiated anticholinergic effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision).
Dopaminergic Agents (e.g., Levodopa)
Antagonism of dopaminergic effects.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, opioids)
Increased sedation and CNS depression.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, coma, extrapyramidal symptoms, hypotension, and shock. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Flupentixol is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA in Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Flupentixol has undergone extensive clinical trials supporting its efficacy and safety for its approved indications over decades.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Renal function tests
- Complete blood count (CBC) - periodically if long-term treatment
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) - if risk factors for QT prolongation exist
Doctor Notes
- Monitor patients for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), and metabolic changes (weight, blood glucose, lipids).
- Low doses of flupentixol can be effective for anxiety and depression, particularly in patients with anergic symptoms.
- Gradual dose reduction is crucial when discontinuing to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol while on this medication.
- Be aware of potential drowsiness or dizziness.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hydration.
- Avoid activities requiring mental alertness (e.g., driving, operating machinery) until you know how the medicine affects you.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.