Stelazine is a brand name for the drug trifluoperazine, which belongs to a class of medications known as antipsychotics. It was first synthesized in 1956 by a team of researchers at Smith Kline & French Laboratories, now known as GlaxoSmithKline.
The drug was initially developed as an antihistamine, but during clinical trials, it was found to have antipsychotic properties. It was first approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1962 for the treatment of schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking.
Stelazine was one of the first antipsychotic medications to be introduced and was widely used in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders throughout the 1960s and 1970s. It was considered a significant improvement over the first-generation antipsychotics, which often caused severe side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS).
Why Was Stelazine Discontinued?
Stelazine discontinued GlaxoSmithKline in January 2004 for business reasons. Stelazine became less prescribed in the United States due to the development of newer, more effective antipsychotic medications with fewer side effects. However, it is still available in some countries and may be prescribed in certain situations where other medications have proven ineffective.
While Stelazine was considered an improvement over the first-generation antipsychotics, it still had a significant risk of causing side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), tardive dyskinesia, sedation, and weight gain. In addition, Stelazine has a relatively long half-life, which can lead to prolonged sedation and increased risk of side effects.
As newer antipsychotics were developed, they were found to be more effective in treating schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders with fewer side effects. These newer medications, known as second-generation or atypical antipsychotics, include drugs such as risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine.
What are the side effects Stelazine?
Stelazine can cause a range of side effects, including:
1. Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) – These include muscle stiffness, tremors, restlessness, and involuntary movements, such as tardive dyskinesia.
2. Sedation – Stelazine can cause drowsiness and sedation, which can affect a person’s ability to perform tasks that require alertness.
3. Weight gain – Stelazine has been associated with weight gain, which can lead to other health problems over time.
4. Anticholinergic effects – These can include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.
5. Endocrine effects – Stelazine can affect the body’s hormone system, leading to changes in menstrual cycle, breast enlargement, and decreased libido.
6. Cardiovascular effects – Stelazine can cause changes in blood pressure, including orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing up) and tachycardia (fast heart rate).
7. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) – This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a result of taking antipsychotic medications, including Stelazine. Symptoms can include fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.
It is important to note that not everyone who takes Stelazine will experience these side effects. However, it is essential to talk to your doctor about any concerns or potential side effects before starting or stopping any medication.
Stelazine Substitutes
There are several other antipsychotic medications available that can be used as substitutes or alternatives to Stelazine. These include:
1. Risperidone – This is a second-generation antipsychotic medication that is commonly used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It has a lower risk of side effects compared to Stelazine.
2. Olanzapine – This is another second-generation antipsychotic medication that is effective in treating schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It has a lower risk of EPS and is less likely to cause sedation.
3. Quetiapine – This is also a second-generation antipsychotic medication that can be used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It has a lower risk of EPS compared to Stelazine and is less likely to cause weight gain.
4. Aripiprazole – This is a third-generation or atypical antipsychotic medication that is effective in treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It has a lower risk of EPS and is less likely to cause sedation or weight gain.
It is important to note that not all medications are suitable for everyone, and the choice of medication should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional based on individual needs, medical history, and potential side effects.
