Truxal (Chlorprothixene): Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
A thioxanthene antipsychotic used for psychosis, schizophrenia, and severe anxiety with sedative and anxiolytic properties
Truxal (chlorprothixene) is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic medication belonging to the thioxanthene class. It works by blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, making it effective for treating psychoses, schizophrenia, and paranoid disorders. Chlorprothixene also has pronounced sedative, anxiolytic, and anti-emetic properties, which makes it useful for managing anxiety, agitation, and tension associated with psychiatric conditions. As a prescription-only medicine, Truxal requires careful medical supervision due to its significant side-effect profile, including the risk of QT prolongation, tardive dyskinesia, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Quick Facts: Truxal
Key Takeaways
- Truxal is a first-generation antipsychotic with multi-receptor activity: It blocks dopamine D1/D2, serotonin 5-HT2, histamine H1, alpha-1 adrenergic, and muscarinic receptors, providing antipsychotic, sedative, and anxiolytic effects in a single medication.
- Full antipsychotic effect takes weeks to develop: While sedation and anxiety relief may occur within hours, the therapeutic effect against psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions typically requires several weeks of continuous treatment.
- Serious cardiac risks require monitoring: Truxal can prolong the QT interval on ECG, which in rare cases may lead to potentially fatal arrhythmias. Patients with heart disease or those taking other QT-prolonging drugs require careful evaluation.
- Not recommended for children under 18: There is insufficient safety and efficacy data for Truxal in pediatric populations, and it should not be used in this age group.
- Never stop abruptly without medical advice: Sudden discontinuation of Truxal can cause withdrawal symptoms and may worsen the underlying psychiatric condition. Always taper the dose under your doctor’s supervision.
What Is Truxal and What Is It Used For?
Truxal (chlorprothixene) is a thioxanthene-class antipsychotic (neuroleptic) medication that affects the transmission of signals between nerve cells in the brain. It is primarily used for the treatment of psychoses, schizophrenia, and paranoid disorders, and is also effective against anxiety, obsessive thoughts, agitation, and tension.
Chlorprothixene belongs to the thioxanthene group of antipsychotic drugs, which are structurally related to the phenothiazines but differ in having a carbon-carbon double bond replacing the nitrogen atom in the central ring. This structural modification gives thioxanthenes a slightly different pharmacological profile compared to classical phenothiazines like chlorpromazine. Truxal was developed by H. Lundbeck A/S and has been used in psychiatric medicine for several decades, particularly in European countries.
The primary mechanism of action of chlorprothixene involves blocking multiple neurotransmitter receptors in the central nervous system. It acts as a potent antagonist at dopamine D1 and D2 receptors, which is the principal mechanism behind its antipsychotic effects. Additionally, it blocks serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, histamine H1 receptors, alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. This broad receptor-binding profile explains both its therapeutic effects and its side-effect profile.
The dopamine receptor blockade in the mesolimbic pathway is responsible for reducing positive psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. The antihistaminic (H1) action contributes to its marked sedative properties, while the anti-adrenergic effects can cause orthostatic hypotension. The anticholinergic activity accounts for side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention.
Approved Indications
Truxal is indicated for the following conditions, although the specific approved indications may vary by country:
- Psychotic disorders: Treatment of acute and chronic psychoses, including disorganized thinking, hallucinations, and delusions
- Schizophrenia: Management of schizophrenic episodes and maintenance therapy to prevent relapse
- Paranoid states: Treatment of paranoid ideation and related symptoms
- Severe anxiety and agitation: Short-term management of severe anxiety, agitation, and tension when other treatments are insufficient
Your doctor may prescribe Truxal for conditions not listed above. This is known as off-label use and is a common, legitimate medical practice. Off-label prescribing should always be based on clinical evidence and your doctor’s professional judgment. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
How Chlorprothixene Works in the Brain
In healthy brain function, neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin carry signals between nerve cells (neurons) in precisely regulated amounts. In psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, there is thought to be an overactivity of dopamine signaling in certain brain pathways, particularly the mesolimbic pathway. This excess dopamine activity is believed to contribute to positive symptoms such as hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that are not there) and delusions (fixed false beliefs).
Chlorprothixene works by occupying and blocking the dopamine receptors on the receiving neuron, preventing excessive dopamine from activating these receptors. By dampening this overactive dopamine signaling, the medication helps reduce psychotic symptoms. The blocking of serotonin 5-HT2A receptors may provide additional antipsychotic benefit and help modulate mood. The antihistaminic and anti-adrenergic properties contribute to the drug’s anxiolytic and sedative effects, which can be therapeutically useful in patients experiencing severe agitation or insomnia alongside their psychotic symptoms.
What Should You Know Before Taking Truxal?
Before taking Truxal, you must inform your doctor about all existing medical conditions, current medications, and any allergies. Truxal is contraindicated in several conditions including reduced consciousness, pheochromocytoma, myasthenia gravis, and certain blood disorders. Special caution is required in elderly patients, those with cardiovascular disease, and patients with liver or kidney impairment.
Contraindications – Do Not Take Truxal If You:
- Are allergic to chlorprothixene or any of the other ingredients in the medication (see the Ingredients section below)
- Have reduced consciousness, for example due to poisoning with alcohol, sleeping pills, or strong painkillers (opioids such as morphine)
- Have certain forms of blood disorders (blood dyscrasias) that affect the production or function of blood cells
- Have pheochromocytoma, a rare benign tumor of the adrenal glands that causes excessive production of adrenaline and noradrenaline
- Have myasthenia gravis, a chronic autoimmune condition that causes pathological fatigue and weakness of the skeletal muscles
Warnings and Precautions
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Truxal if any of the following conditions apply to you. These situations may require dose adjustments, additional monitoring, or consideration of alternative treatments:
- Impaired liver function: Chlorprothixene is extensively metabolized by the liver, and impaired liver function can lead to increased drug levels and enhanced side effects
- Impaired kidney function: Reduced renal clearance may affect drug elimination and require dose adjustment
- History of seizures or epilepsy: Antipsychotics can lower the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of convulsions
- Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia): The anticholinergic effects of Truxal can worsen urinary retention
- Brain damage from toxic exposure: For example, from alcohol or solvent abuse, which may increase sensitivity to the drug
- Risk factors for stroke: Including smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation
- Cardiovascular disease or family history of QT prolongation: Truxal can prolong the QT interval, which may lead to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias
- Use of other antipsychotic medications: Combining antipsychotics increases the risk of adverse effects
- Narrow-angle glaucoma: The anticholinergic effects can precipitate acute attacks of angle-closure glaucoma
- Parkinson’s disease: Dopamine blockade can significantly worsen parkinsonian symptoms
- Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism: Thyroid disorders can alter the drug’s metabolism and effects
- Urinary retention or pyloric stenosis: Anticholinergic effects may worsen these conditions
In very rare cases, antipsychotic medications including Truxal can cause a potentially life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Symptoms include high fever, severe muscle rigidity, altered consciousness, sweating, and rapid heartbeat. If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. NMS requires urgent hospitalization and treatment, and the antipsychotic medication must be discontinued immediately.
Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs have an increased risk of death compared to those not receiving such treatment. Truxal is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Elderly patients are also particularly sensitive to orthostatic hypotension (an abnormal drop in blood pressure when standing up), which increases the risk of falls and fractures.
Cases of venous thromboembolism (blood clots in veins), including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, have been reported with antipsychotic drugs. If you or anyone in your family has a history of blood clots, inform your doctor before starting Truxal. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling, pain, and redness in a leg, or sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine.
Pregnancy: The safety of Truxal during pregnancy has not been fully established. Newborns exposed to antipsychotics during the third trimester (last three months of pregnancy) may experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, including tremors, muscle stiffness or weakness, drowsiness, agitation, breathing problems, and feeding difficulties. If your baby develops any of these symptoms, contact your doctor promptly. Truxal should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
Breastfeeding: Chlorprothixene passes into breast milk, but at therapeutic doses it is unlikely to significantly affect the nursing infant. However, consult your doctor before using Truxal during breastfeeding, especially for prolonged treatment, as the long-term effects on the developing infant are not well characterized.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Truxal can significantly impair your ability to drive and operate machinery, particularly at the beginning of treatment and when the dose is increased. The medication causes drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired reaction time in many patients. You should not drive a car, operate heavy machinery, or perform activities requiring alertness until you know how Truxal affects you. You are personally responsible for assessing whether you are fit to drive or perform work requiring vigilance.
Alcohol
You should not consume alcohol while being treated with Truxal. Alcohol significantly enhances the sedative effects of chlorprothixene, leading to excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, respiratory depression, and potentially dangerous low blood pressure. The combination can also worsen cognitive impairment and increase the risk of falls and accidents.
Important Information About Excipients
Truxal tablets contain lactose monohydrate. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.
How Does Truxal Interact with Other Drugs?
Truxal interacts with many medications due to its multi-receptor pharmacology and hepatic metabolism via CYP2D6. Certain combinations are strictly contraindicated (codeine, bromocriptine, cabergoline), while others require careful monitoring. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Chlorprothixene has a complex interaction profile because of its effects on multiple neurotransmitter systems and its metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver. Some interactions increase the risk of serious adverse effects, while others may reduce the effectiveness of either Truxal or the co-administered drug. The following tables summarize the most clinically important drug interactions.
Contraindicated Combinations
The following medications must not be taken at the same time as Truxal:
| Drug | Reason for Contraindication | Clinical Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Codeine | Chlorprothixene inhibits CYP2D6, which is required to convert codeine to its active metabolite (morphine) | Loss of analgesic effect of codeine; unpredictable pain relief |
| Bromocriptine | Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist; Truxal is a dopamine antagonist – directly opposing mechanisms | Mutual reduction in therapeutic effect; loss of lactation suppression |
| Cabergoline | Cabergoline is a dopamine agonist; same opposing mechanism as bromocriptine | Mutual reduction in therapeutic effect |
Major Interactions Requiring Caution
| Drug / Class | Interaction | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| QT-prolonging drugs (other antipsychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, quinidine, cisapride, lithium, erythromycin, moxifloxacin, mefloquine, methadone) | Additive QT prolongation, increasing the risk of dangerous cardiac arrhythmias including torsades de pointes | ECG monitoring required; avoid combination if possible; correct electrolyte imbalances |
| Blood pressure-lowering medications | Enhanced hypotensive effect due to alpha-1 adrenergic blockade by Truxal | Monitor blood pressure closely; dose adjustment of antihypertensive may be needed |
| Barbiturates and CNS depressants | Additive central nervous system depression causing excessive sedation and respiratory depression | Reduce dose of one or both drugs; monitor for excessive sedation |
| Levodopa and dopamine agonists | Truxal blocks dopamine receptors, directly opposing the therapeutic effect of levodopa | Worsening of Parkinson’s disease symptoms; avoid combination when possible |
| Anti-epileptic drugs | Truxal lowers the seizure threshold; may reduce the effectiveness of anticonvulsant medication | Monitor seizure control; anticonvulsant dose adjustment may be needed |
| Thiazide diuretics | Can cause electrolyte imbalances (low potassium or magnesium), increasing QT prolongation risk | Monitor electrolytes regularly; correct deficiencies promptly |
CYP2D6 Inhibitors – Drugs That Increase Truxal Levels
Chlorprothixene is primarily metabolized in the liver by the CYP2D6 enzyme. Drugs that inhibit this enzyme can significantly increase the blood levels of chlorprothixene, potentially leading to enhanced side effects and toxicity. The following medications are known CYP2D6 inhibitors that require dose adjustment or close monitoring when used with Truxal:
- SSRIs: Paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram
- Other antipsychotics: Quinidine
- Other inhibitors: Duloxetine, terbinafine, chloramphenicol, amiodarone, cimetidine, disulfiram, isoniazid, MAO inhibitors, oral contraceptives, buspirone
Using Truxal together with other medications that have anticholinergic properties (such as certain antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, bladder medications, and some anti-Parkinson’s drugs) can increase the total anticholinergic burden. This can lead to severe dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, confusion, blurred vision, and cognitive impairment – particularly in elderly patients. Inform your doctor about all medications you take so the anticholinergic burden can be assessed.
What Is the Correct Dosage of Truxal?
The typical adult dosage of Truxal ranges from 50 to 300 mg daily, divided into multiple doses throughout the day. The largest portion of the daily dose is usually taken in the evening due to the sedative effect. Elderly patients should start at a lower dose with gradual increases. Treatment duration is determined by your doctor.
Always take Truxal exactly as your doctor has instructed. Do not change the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first. The tablets can be taken with or without food. The dose is typically individualized based on the severity of symptoms, the patient’s response, and tolerability.
Adults
Standard Adult Dosing
The usual dose for adults is 50–300 mg daily. The daily dose is typically divided into multiple dosing occasions throughout the day. Because Truxal causes drowsiness, the largest portion of the daily dose is advantageously taken in the evening. Treatment is usually started at a lower dose and gradually increased to the effective maintenance dose.
| Patient Group | Starting Dose | Usual Maintenance Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | 25–50 mg/day | 50–300 mg/day | Divide into multiple daily doses; largest dose in the evening |
| Elderly | Lower than standard adult dose | Individually determined | Start low, increase gradually and slowly; higher sensitivity to side effects |
| Children (<18 years) | Not recommended | Not recommended | Insufficient safety and efficacy data in this age group |
Elderly Patients
Dosing in Elderly Patients
For elderly patients, treatment should be initiated at a lower dose than the standard adult dose. Any dose increases should be made gradually and more slowly than in younger adults. Elderly patients are more susceptible to side effects, particularly orthostatic hypotension (sudden drops in blood pressure when standing), sedation, and anticholinergic effects. Falls are a significant concern in this population, and regular monitoring of cardiovascular function is recommended.
Children and Adolescents
Truxal is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age. There are insufficient data regarding the safety and efficacy of chlorprothixene in this age group. If antipsychotic treatment is needed for a young person, your doctor will consider medications with established pediatric safety profiles and dosing guidelines.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose of Truxal, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If you are unsure what to do, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Overdose
If you have taken more Truxal than prescribed, or if someone (for example, a child) has accidentally ingested the medication, contact a doctor, hospital, or poison control center immediately. Do this even if no symptoms are present, as symptoms may be delayed.
Symptoms of overdose include enhanced side effects, reduced consciousness, breathing difficulties, seizures, and cardiac effects (changes in heart rhythm including irregular or slower heartbeat). Heart rhythm disturbances are particularly concerning when Truxal overdose occurs together with other drugs known to affect the heart. Emergency treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, cardiovascular monitoring, and symptomatic care.
The antipsychotic effect against psychotic symptoms typically takes several weeks of continuous treatment to fully develop. Do not stop treatment because you feel the medication is not working during the first weeks. The duration of treatment is determined in consultation with your doctor. Never discontinue treatment without first consulting your doctor, as abrupt withdrawal can cause rebound symptoms and worsening of the underlying condition.
What Are the Side Effects of Truxal?
Like all medicines, Truxal can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and increased salivation. Most side effects are most pronounced at the beginning of treatment and typically diminish as treatment continues. Some rare side effects, including tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, require immediate medical attention.
The side effects of chlorprothixene are related to its multi-receptor pharmacology. Dopamine blockade can cause movement disorders (extrapyramidal symptoms), histamine H1 blockade causes sedation and weight gain, alpha-1 blockade causes orthostatic hypotension, and muscarinic blockade causes anticholinergic effects. Understanding these mechanisms helps predict and manage side effects effectively.
Very Common
Affects more than 1 in 10 patients
- Drowsiness (somnolence)
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Increased salivation (salivary hypersecretion)
Common
Affects 1 to 10 in 100 patients
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), palpitations
- Involuntary muscle contractions causing abnormal postures (dystonia), headache
- Difficulty focusing on near objects (accommodation disturbance), visual disturbances
- Constipation, indigestion (dyspepsia), nausea
- Increased sweating (hyperhidrosis)
- Muscle pain (myalgia)
- Increased appetite, weight gain
- Fatigue, weakness (asthenia)
- Insomnia, nervousness, agitation, decreased sex drive (decreased libido)
Uncommon
Affects 1 to 10 in 1,000 patients
- Parkinsonism (tremor, rigidity, slow movement), seizures, inability to sit or stand still (akathisia)
- Involuntary rolling eye movements (oculogyration)
- Abnormal movements of the mouth and tongue (early sign of tardive dyskinesia)
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Difficulty urinating (micturition disorders), inability to urinate (urinary retention)
- Skin rash, itching (pruritus), light sensitivity reactions (photosensitization), eczema or skin inflammation (dermatitis)
- Muscle rigidity
- Decreased appetite, weight loss
- Low blood pressure (hypotension), hot flushes
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Sexual dysfunction (delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction)
Rare
Affects 1 to 10 in 10,000 patients
- Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), low white blood cell count (neutropenia, leukopenia), bone marrow toxicity (agranulocytosis)
- Difficulty breathing or painful breathing (dyspnea)
- Elevated prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia)
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia), impaired glucose tolerance
- Hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylactic reaction
- Breast enlargement in men (gynecomastia), excessive milk production (galactorrhea), absence of menstruation (amenorrhea)
Very Rare
Affects fewer than 1 in 10,000 patients
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): high fever, severe muscle rigidity, altered consciousness, sweating, and rapid heartbeat – seek emergency help immediately
- Jaundice: yellowing of skin and eyes, indicating liver damage
- Blood clots (venous thromboembolism): deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
- QT prolongation and cardiac arrhythmias: including ventricular arrhythmias, ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and torsades de pointes
- Cardiac arrest (in rare cases, arrhythmias have resulted in sudden death)
- Persistent painful erection (priapism) – seek medical attention immediately
Long-term use of antipsychotics including Truxal can cause tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face and tongue (lip smacking, chewing movements, tongue protrusion). Early signs include unusual movements of the mouth and tongue. If you notice any such movements, contact your doctor promptly, as the condition may become irreversible if not addressed early.
Dry mouth caused by Truxal can, during long-term treatment, lead to dental problems and damage to the oral mucosa. It is recommended to brush your teeth thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste twice daily and to have regular dental check-ups. Drinking water frequently and using saliva substitutes can also help manage dry mouth symptoms.
How Should You Store Truxal?
Store Truxal out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the medication after the expiry date stated on the packaging. Store at room temperature and protect from excessive heat and moisture. Do not dispose of medications through household waste or wastewater.
Proper storage of medications is essential to maintain their effectiveness and safety. Truxal should be kept in its original packaging to protect it from light and moisture. Store the tablets at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F) and away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humid environments such as bathrooms.
Always check the expiry date before taking a dose. The expiry date refers to the last day of the stated month. Do not use Truxal after this date, as the chemical composition of the drug may have changed, potentially affecting its safety and efficacy.
Unused or expired medications should not be thrown in the trash or flushed down the toilet. Return them to your pharmacy for safe disposal. This practice protects the environment from pharmaceutical contamination of water sources and soil.
Keep all medications stored securely and out of the sight and reach of children. Accidental ingestion of antipsychotic medication by a child can cause serious adverse effects requiring emergency medical treatment.
What Does Truxal Contain?
The active ingredient in Truxal is chlorprothixene hydrochloride (25 mg per tablet). The tablets also contain several inactive ingredients (excipients) including maize starch, lactose monohydrate, and various coating agents. Patients with lactose intolerance should consult their doctor before taking Truxal.
Active Ingredient
Each film-coated tablet contains chlorprothixene hydrochloride 25 mg, equivalent to approximately 22.5 mg of chlorprothixene base. Chlorprothixene is a thioxanthene derivative with the chemical formula C16H16ClNOS · HCl and a molecular weight of 352.3 g/mol (as the hydrochloride salt).
Inactive Ingredients (Excipients)
- Maize starch – used as a filler and disintegrant
- Lactose monohydrate – used as a filler and binder (important for patients with lactose intolerance)
- Copovidone – used as a binder
- Glycerol (85%) – used as a plasticizer in the film coating
- Microcrystalline cellulose – used as a filler and binder
- Croscarmellose sodium – used as a disintegrant to facilitate tablet dissolution
- Talc – used as a glidant to improve manufacturing flow
- Magnesium stearate – used as a lubricant during tablet compression
Coloring Agents
- Iron oxide (E172) – provides the characteristic tablet color
- Titanium dioxide (E171) – provides the white base coating color
Frequently Asked Questions About Truxal
Truxal (chlorprothixene) is a thioxanthene antipsychotic used to treat psychoses, schizophrenia, and paranoid disorders. It affects the transmission of signals between nerve cells in the brain by blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors. This mechanism makes it effective against anxiety, obsessive thoughts, agitation, and tension. It may also be used off-label for severe anxiety and agitation in other psychiatric conditions.
The sedative and anxiolytic effects of Truxal typically begin within hours of the first dose. However, the full antipsychotic effect against psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions usually takes several weeks of continuous treatment to develop. It is important not to stop taking Truxal without consulting your doctor, even if you do not notice immediate improvement in your symptoms.
The most common side effects (affecting more than 1 in 10 patients) are drowsiness (somnolence), dizziness, dry mouth, and increased salivation. These side effects are typically most pronounced at the beginning of treatment and often diminish as treatment continues. Dry mouth during long-term treatment can cause dental and oral mucosa damage, so thorough dental hygiene with fluoride toothpaste twice daily is recommended.
Yes, increased appetite and weight gain are common side effects of Truxal, occurring in 1–10% of patients. Like many antipsychotic medications, chlorprothixene can alter metabolic function and appetite regulation. If you notice significant weight changes, discuss this with your doctor. Regular monitoring of weight and metabolic parameters (blood glucose, lipids) is recommended during long-term treatment.
No, you should not consume alcohol while taking Truxal. Alcohol significantly enhances the sedative effects of chlorprothixene, which can cause excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, difficulty breathing, and dangerously low blood pressure. The combination can also worsen cognitive function and increase the risk of falls and accidents.
Truxal is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to a lack of data regarding safety and efficacy in this age group. If a child or adolescent requires antipsychotic treatment, a doctor will consider other medications with established pediatric safety profiles.
References
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- 3 British National Formulary (BNF). Chlorprothixene: Drug monograph. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Available at: bnf.nice.org.uk
- 4 Leucht S, Cipriani A, Spineli L, et al. Comparative efficacy and tolerability of 15 antipsychotic drugs in schizophrenia: a multiple-treatments meta-analysis. The Lancet. 2013;382(9896):951–962. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(13)60733-3
- 5 British Association for Psychopharmacology (BAP). Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia: updated recommendations from the BAP. J Psychopharmacol. 2020;34(1):3–78. doi:10.1177/0269881119889296
- 6 World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP). Guidelines for biological treatment of schizophrenia – update 2023. World J Biol Psychiatry. 2023;24(1):1–56.
- 7 Haddad PM, Anderson IM. Antipsychotic-related QTc prolongation, torsade de pointes and sudden death. Drugs. 2002;62(11):1649–1671. doi:10.2165/00003495-200262110-00006
- 8 Huhn M, Nikolakopoulou A, Schneider-Thoma J, et al. Comparative efficacy and tolerability of 32 oral antipsychotics for the acute treatment of adults with multi-episode schizophrenia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. The Lancet. 2019;394(10202):939–951. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(19)31135-3
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- 10 Caroff SN, Mann SC, Campbell EC. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Adverse Syndromes and Psychiatric Drugs. Oxford University Press; 2004. doi:10.1093/med/9780198527480.003.0001
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