Zuclopenthixol acetate
Clopixol Acuphase
Clopixol Acuphase is used for treating schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. It helps by altering the patient’s thoughts and uplifting their mood, thus improving their ability to think, feel, and react. It is advised to take the medication simultaneously each day to maintain the medicine’s consistency in the body. The dose and duration of the drug should be taken after consulting with a medical professional. Do not self-administer the medication, and if you are thinking of discontinuation, consult with your doctor, as any negligence can result in worsened symptoms. Try not to skip any dose and complete the course of your treatment. If you want to continue your treatment without leaving home, you can buy Clopixol Acuphase online from reputable pharmacies like Polar Bear Meds.
Product Overview
Clopixol Acuphase is a strong medication mainly composed of zuclopenthixol acetate, a typical antipsychotic from the thioxanthene class. It functions by adjusting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, primarily dopamine, to stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of psychotic disorders. People suffering from conditions like schizophrenia (a mental disorder that affects the ability to think and behave) and psychoses (a condition in which you are unable to differentiate between reality and imagination) can use this medication for acute and long-term treatment.
Available in a 50 mg/mL strength, Clopixol Acuphase injection is administered by healthcare professionals. Its rapid action is ideal for managing acute symptoms, providing significant relief within 2-3 days of usage. It is important to note that this medication is only suitable for adults and should not be self-administered. The medication works by restricting the action of dopamine, known as a chemical messenger in the brain. This messenger affects the thoughts and mood of the patient, giving them the ability to make right decisions.
Patients receiving Clopixol Acuphase may experience side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or dry mouth. In case of a missed dose, the healthcare provider will reschedule the administration. An overdose requires immediate medical intervention. Store this medication at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and keep it out of reach of children. Precautions should be taken, especially with patients having a history of cardiovascular diseases or liver issues. Always follow the specific guidance provided by healthcare professionals regarding the use and handling of Clopixol Acuphase. For individuals seeking a convenient way to continue their treatment, you can buy Clopixol Acuphase online from trusted pharmacies. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to confirm that Clopixol for schizophrenia treatment is suitable for your condition and to ensure you follow the prescribed guidelines for safe and effective use.
What Are the Uses of Clopixol Acuphase?
It is used for:
- Initial treatment of short-term psychoses
- Treatment of acute episodes of mental disorders
- Treatment of Schizophrenia
- Treatment of Anxiety
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Clopixol Acuphase?
- Clopixol Acuphase comes in the form of an injection and is available in three strengths:
- 200 mg/1 mL
- 100 mg/1 mL
- 50 mg/1 mL
What is the Recommended Dosage for Clopixol Acuphase?
Below are the detailed dosage recommendations for Clopixol Acuphase, which should always be tailored to the patient’s clinical response and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
- For Adults: The dose range is between 50-150 or 1-3 ml with a gap of 2-3 days. In some cases, experts advised additional injection within 24 to 48 hours after the initial injection. The maximum dosage should be 400 mg, and the number of injections taken should not exceed 4. If it is a maintenance therapy, continue the treatment with oral zuclopenthixol. Start the treatment 2-3 days following the last zuclopenthixol acetate injection with about 40 mg daily, possibly in divided doses. Increase it by 10-20 mg every 2-3 days up to 75 mg or more if needed.
- For Older Patients: Lower dosage is advised. Do not exceed 100 mg per injection.
- For Children: Usage is not recommended due to insufficient clinical data.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: Standard doses as prescribed by a medical professional.
- Patients with Hepatic Impairment: Half the recommended dosage. Generally, serum level testing is advisable.
[Note: Remember these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Take Clopixol Acuphase?
Taking Clopixol Acuphase requires careful administration by a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. Below are important guidelines for how the medication should be taken:
- Clopixol Acuphase is an injectable medication administered by medical professionals only.
- Ensure the doctor is professionally trained to give deep intramuscular injections.
- Ensure the medication is at room temperature.
- Check the expiration date and the integrity of the vial.
- Make sure the doctors use an aseptic technique to draw the medication into a syringe.
- The injection is injected directly into the muscles of the buttock or thigh.
- Gently rub the injected area to prevent muscle soreness.
- Make sure you are getting injections in different areas to prevent muscle damage.
- Check for any unusual symptoms immediately after the administration, as the medication can cause significant changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and mental state.
- Get your following doses at the right time, as the doctor directs.
- Regularly monitor your mental status, side effects, and overall health.
- Use caution with activities requiring alertness, as this medication can cause drowsiness.
- Always follow the specific instructions provided by the healthcare professionals and the guidelines from the medication’s package insert.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Clopixol Acuphase Work?
Clopixol Acuphase works by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. These transmitters are chemicals that nerve cells use to communicate with each other. One of these neurotransmitters, dopamine, plays a crucial role in how we experience both pleasure and pain. It’s thought that in conditions like schizophrenia, the brain’s dopamine pathways may be overly active, leading to symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and erratic behaviors.
The active ingredient zuclopenthixol in the medication helps to balance these symptoms by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. This blockage aids in normalizing dopamine activity and reduces the intensity of the symptoms. Additionally, the “Acuphase” formulation of Clopixol is designed for quick action and is usually administered through an injection, allowing the medication to start working faster than pills. This can benefit situations where rapid control of severe symptoms is necessary.
Important Safety Information of Clopixol Acuphase
What Are the Side Effects of Clopixol Acuphase?
Common side effects of Clopixol Acuphase
When taking Clopixol Acuphase, it’s important to be aware of the common side effects that may occur. These side effects can vary in severity, and understanding them helps you manage any potential issues that may arise during treatment. Below is a detailed explanation of each side effect:
- Abnormality in Voluntary Movements: Clopixol Acuphase can affect the nervous system, leading to involuntary movements like restlessness, tremors, or a feeling of being unable to sit still. This is known as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and occurs because the medication alters dopamine levels in the brain, which controls movement.
- Constipation: This medication may cause constipation by slowing down the bowel movement process. This side effect happens because Clopixol can reduce motility in the digestive system, leading to difficulty passing stools and discomfort.
- Dry Mouth: Clopixol Acuphase can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. This is a common side effect of many antipsychotic medications and can cause discomfort, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and an increased risk of tooth decay due to reduced saliva’s protective effect.
- Increased Prolactin Levels in Blood: Elevated prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) are a known side effect of Clopixol Acuphase. Prolactin is a hormone that regulates milk production, and when levels are too high, it can lead to abnormal lactation, breast tenderness, or irregular periods in women.
- Orthostatic Hypotension: This refers to a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up quickly. Clopixol Acuphase can cause dizziness or fainting upon standing, affecting the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure effectively. This is due to the medication’s impact on the nervous system and blood vessels.
- Dizziness: Many users report feeling lightheaded or dizzy when taking Clopixol. This can occur due to a drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up quickly, or because the medication affects balance and coordination. It’s essential to sit or lie down if dizziness occurs to avoid falls.
- Drowsiness: Clopixol Acuphase can cause significant drowsiness or sleepiness as a sedating medication. This effect happens because the drug alters brain chemistry, especially by blocking certain receptors involved in wakefulness. This may impact the ability to perform daily activities requiring alertness.
- Tremors: Some individuals may experience shaking or tremors, typically in the hands or other parts of the body. This is a common side effect of antipsychotics and occurs due to changes in brain chemicals (dopamine). It may become more noticeable with long-term use of the medication.
- Urinary Retention: Clopixol Acuphase can affect the bladder muscles, making it more difficult to fully empty. This can lead to discomfort, frequent trips to the bathroom, or even urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to incomplete bladder emptying.
- Weight Gain: A frequent side effect of antipsychotic medications like Clopixol Acuphase is weight gain. The drug may alter metabolism and appetite, leading to increased food consumption and changes in how the body stores fat. This can contribute to long-term health issues such as obesity or diabetes.
- Stiffness: Some people may experience muscle stiffness or rigidity, making movement difficult and painful. This occurs due to the medication’s effects on the nervous system and is related to extrapyramidal symptoms. It can be worsened by long-term use and may require adjustment of dosage.
- Muscle Spasm: Involuntary muscle spasms, especially in the face, neck, or back, are another possible side effect. This is due to the impact of Clopixol Acuphase on the central nervous system, which can lead to muscle contractions or “twitches.” These spasms can sometimes be severe and painful.
- Blurred Vision: The medication can cause blurry vision as it affects the muscles that control the eyes, making it harder to focus. This may be temporary, but it can be problematic for daily activities like reading or driving. Vision problems should be reported to a healthcare provider if they persist.
- Excessive Sweating/Salivation: Clopixol Acuphase can lead to excessive sweating or drooling due to its effects on the autonomic nervous system. These symptoms may occur because the drug affects the balance of fluids in the body, leading to increased perspiration and saliva production.
- Changes in Monthly Cycles for Females: Women taking Clopixol Acuphase may notice changes in their menstrual cycle, such as missed periods or irregular bleeding. This occurs due to the medication’s impact on hormone levels, particularly prolactin, which can disrupt normal menstrual function.
Serious side effects of Clopixol Acuphase
While Clopixol Acuphase can effectively treat certain conditions, it may cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Below are some of the most concerning side effects that can occur, along with explanations of why they happen and the actions you should take if they arise.
- Blood Clots: Clopixol Acuphase can increase the risk of developing blood clots, particularly in people with certain risk factors like immobility, a history of blood clotting, or other medical conditions. Blood clots can form in the veins or lungs and cause serious complications, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, or stroke. Symptoms of blood clots may include swelling, redness, warmth in the legs, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Immediate medical attention is necessary if you experience any of these symptoms.
- Chest Pain: Some individuals taking Clopixol Acuphase may experience chest pain or tightness. This could be a sign of a cardiovascular issue, such as angina or a heart attack. Chest pain may also occur due to the medication’s effect on the cardiovascular system. It is important to seek immediate medical care if you feel chest pain, as it could signal a life-threatening condition. Other accompanying symptoms may include nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
- Yellowing of the Skin (Jaundice): Jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, may occur due to liver dysfunction. Clopixol Acuphase can affect liver function, and if jaundice develops, it could indicate liver damage or hepatitis. Suppose you notice any yellowing of your skin or eyes. In that case, it is crucial to contact your doctor right away for a thorough evaluation, as untreated liver issues can lead to severe health complications.
- High Fever: A high fever, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as confusion, muscle stiffness, or rapid heart rate, can be a sign of a rare but serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). NMS is a life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications like Clopixol Acuphase, which can cause muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. If you experience a high fever, it is essential to seek emergency medical care as NMS can be fatal if not treated promptly.
- Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Sensitivity to light, or photophobia, occurs when the eyes become overly sensitive to bright lights. This can result in discomfort or pain in well-lit environments. Clopixol Acuphase may cause changes in the way the eyes respond to light due to its effects on the central nervous system. Suppose you experience persistent sensitivity to light or other vision-related issues. In that case, discussing these symptoms with your doctor is important, as they may indicate a need to adjust your medication or seek further treatment.
- Purpura (Bleeding Underneath the Skin): Purpura refers to the appearance of purple or red spots on the skin caused by small blood vessels breaking underneath the skin’s surface. This can result from decreased platelet count, which Clopixol Acuphase may cause. If purpura occurs, it could signal a serious condition like thrombocytopenia or another bleeding disorder. If you notice unexplained bruising, purple spots, or bleeding that does not stop, contact your healthcare provider immediately to rule out serious blood-related complications.
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.]
What Are the Warnings of Clopixol Acuphase?
Understanding warnings of Clopixol Acuphase is essential to ensure the medication is used safely and effectively, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions or those who are pregnant, elderly, or nursing. Below are the key warnings associated with this medication, which trusted medical sources have highlighted:
- Risk of Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): May cause movement disorders, including tremors, rigidity, and tardive dyskinesia, especially with prolonged use.
- Cardiovascular Concerns: Use with caution in patients with heart conditions, as it may cause orthostatic hypotension, arrhythmias, or QT interval prolongation.
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Rare but serious condition characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. Immediate medical attention is required.
- Severe Sedation: This can cause significant drowsiness and sedation, particularly after the first dose. Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
- Risk in Elderly: Older adults are more susceptible to sedation and orthostatic hypotension. Lower doses are recommended.
- Hepatic and Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease. Reduced dosage may be required for those with hepatic impairment.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medication is not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Caution is advised during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk.
- Children and Adolescents: Not recommended for use in children due to insufficient safety and efficacy data.
- Discontinuation Syndrome: Abrupt discontinuation can result in withdrawal symptoms. Tapering the dose may be necessary under medical supervision.
- Alcohol and Drug Interactions: Avoid combining with alcohol or CNS depressants, as it may enhance sedative effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression.
What Are the Precautions of Clopixol Acuphase?
Like all medications, Clopixol Acuphase can have side effects or interact with other health conditions, which is why proper monitoring and medical guidance are essential. Below are key precautions to consider before and during treatment:
-
- Allergy and Hypersensitivity: Do not use Clopixol Acuphase if you are allergic to zuclopenthixol or any of the formulation’s ingredients. Signs of allergy include rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Use with caution in patients with a history of heart problems, including arrhythmias, heart failure, or hypotension, as Clopixol Acuphase can lower blood pressure and affect heart rhythm.
- CNS Effects: Monitor for central nervous system effects, including sedation, drowsiness, or dizziness. Caution is advised in patients with a history of seizures, as the medication may lower the seizure threshold.
- Hepatic and Renal Impairment:
-
- For Hepatic Impairment: Start with a reduced dose, as metabolism may be slower in patients with liver conditions. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended.
- For Renal Impairment: Use standard doses unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.
- Elderly Patients: Lower doses should be used in older adults due to the potential for increased sensitivity to the drug. The maximum recommended dose should not exceed 100 mg per injection.
- Children: Not recommended for use in children due to insufficient clinical data on safety and efficacy.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Clopixol Acuphase is not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk, so caution is advised if used while breastfeeding.
- Tardive Dyskinesia and Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Monitor for the development of movement disorders like tardive dyskinesia or extrapyramidal symptoms, which can occur with prolonged use of antipsychotic medications like Clopixol Acuphase.
- Metabolic Disorders: Patients with diabetes or those at risk for diabetes should be monitored for potential metabolic effects, including changes in blood sugar levels.
- Interaction with Other Medications: Clopixol Acuphase may interact with other medications, such as sedatives, antidepressants, or antihypertensives. Always inform the healthcare provider of all other drugs being taken to avoid adverse interactions.
- Injection Site Reactions: Pain, irritation, or other local reactions at the injection site may occur. Rotate injection sites to minimize discomfort.
- Monitoring: During treatment, it is recommended that vital signs, liver function, and overall response to the medication be regularly monitored.
What Are the Contraindications of Clopixol Acuphase?
Zuclopenthixol acetate must not be taken by patients who:
- Have hypersensitivity to thioxanthenes or any other ingredient of the drug.
- Are under the influence of alcohol, opiates, or barbiturates to a significant extent.
- Suffer from severe blood disorders or circulatory issues.
- Possess a history of leukopenia or agranulocytosis, conditions involving low white blood cell counts.
- Have been diagnosed with pheochromocytoma, a tumor that can affect blood pressure.
What Are the Missed Dose of Clopixol Acuphase?
- Take the missed dose as long as it does not exceed the duration of 6 hours before the next dose.
- Take the next dose if it is less than 6 hours before the next dose.
- Try not to skip or forget any doses.
- Avoid compensating for a missed dose by doubling up on the following one.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What If You Overdose on Clopixol Acuphase?
Since the Clopixol Acuphase injection is administered in the hospital by professionals, the chances of an overdose are very unlikely. However, if it happens in rare cases, your doctor will handle the situation by taking necessary preventive measures.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store Clopixol Acuphase?
Storing Clopixol Acuphase properly is crucial to maintaining its therapeutic benefits. Improper storage can lead to reduced efficacy and increased risks. Follow these guidelines carefully to ensure that the medication remains effective, safe, and ready for use when needed.
- Your healthcare provider or nurse will store the injection for you.
- If you are keeping it at home, keep the medication out of children’s reach.
- Store the injection somewhere safe, between the temperatures of 15ºC and 25ºC.
- Keep it protected from light
- Store the ampoules in the outer carton.
- Do not store it in the bathroom or near the sink.
- Discard the medication once it is past the expiration date printed on the label.
- Do not flush the injection.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor how to throw them when not in use.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Are the Interactions of Clopixol Acuphase?
Drug interactions are an important consideration when using Clopixol Acuphase. Certain medications can either enhance or reduce its effects or even cause harmful side effects. To help ensure safe treatment, it’s vital to be aware of these interactions. Below is a summary of the key interactions to watch for when using Clopixol Acuphase:
- Central Nervous System Depressants: Caution should be exercised when combining Clopixol Acuphase with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as alcohol, sedatives, and benzodiazepines, as they may enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression, drowsiness, or impaired coordination.
- Antihypertensive Medications: Clopixol Acuphase may enhance the effects of antihypertensive drugs, leading to an increased risk of hypotension (low blood pressure). Close monitoring of blood pressure is recommended when used with medications like beta-blockers, diuretics, or other blood pressure-lowering drugs.
- Anticholinergic Medications: When combined with anticholinergic medications (e.g., atropine, antihistamines), the risk of dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, and blurred vision may be increased. Caution is advised in patients using both types of medications.
- Other Antipsychotic Medications: Combining Clopixol Acuphase with other antipsychotic drugs can increase the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), including tremors, rigidity, and tardive dyskinesia. Careful monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary.
- Antidepressants: Caution is advised when combining Clopixol Acuphase with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), or other antidepressants, as there is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Levodopa: The use of Clopixol Acuphase with levodopa (used in Parkinson’s disease) may reduce the effectiveness of levodopa and increase the risk of movement-related side effects.
- Warfarin (and other anticoagulants): Clopixol Acuphase may interact with warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of blood clotting times (INR) is advised for patients on both medications.
- Lithium: Clopixol Acuphase may increase the risk of lithium toxicity, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or tremors. Monitoring lithium levels is recommended when used together.
- CYP450 Enzyme Inhibitors: Medications that inhibit the cytochrome P450 enzyme system (e.g., fluoxetine, ketoconazole) may increase the levels of Clopixol Acuphase in the blood, raising the risk of adverse effects. Dose adjustments may be required.
- Antiepileptic Drugs: Use with caution in combination with antiepileptic drugs, as Clopixol Acuphase may lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures, especially in patients with a history of epilepsy.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Clopixol Acuphase. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Alternatives of Clopixol Acuphase?
Several other medications are available for patients who may not respond well to Clopixol Acuphase or those seeking alternative treatment options. Below is a list of some of the most commonly prescribed alternatives to this medication:
- Solian
- Abilify Maintena
- Sycrest
- Anquil
- Reagila
- Modecate
- Nozinan
- Latuda
- Invega
- Neulactil
- Orap
- Stemetil
- Risperdal
- Stelazine
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much time does Clopixol-Acuphase take to work?
The sedative properties of the drug start showing its effects 2 hours after injection. For peak impact, it takes around 12 hours after the dose is administered. The therapeutic effects of this medication can last as long as 72 hours. However, it is important to note that zuclopenthixol, the active ingredient in Clopixol-Acuphase, is not suitable for rapid tranquilization due to its gradual onset of action.
Is Clopixol Depot and Clopixol Acuphase the same?
Zuclopenthixol (Tradename: Clopixol) is an antipsychotic medication that has two formulations. While zuclopenthixol acetate (Clopixol-Acuphase) is used for the management of severe mental disorders that are not responsive to other medications, Zuclopenthixol decanoate (Clopixol Depot) is used for long term treatment of schizophrenia. However, both formulations contain the same active ingredient, but their usage and administration differ, with Clopixol Depot being used for maintenance therapy and Clopixol Acuphase for acute symptom control.
Does Clopixol have sedative properties?
Along with its antipsychotic effect, zuclopenthixol exerts a general calming influence on symptoms like agitation, restlessness, hostility, or aggression. The sedation is dependent on the dose administered to the patient. The higher the dosage, the higher its sedation effects. However, the patients rapidly build tolerance towards its sedative effects.
What happens when you stop taking Clopixol?
When you stop taking Clopixol, withdrawal symptoms like nausea, insomnia, and agitation may occur, particularly if discontinued abruptly. There is also a risk of rebound and relapse, where original symptoms such as hallucinations or mood disturbances return. Additionally, the body needs time to adjust to the absence of the medication, which can lead to physical discomfort. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
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