What it means
A mid-potency typical antipsychotic that blocks dopamine. It treats schizophrenia, and at low doses it controls severe nausea and vomiting. It is also sold combined with the antidepressant amitriptyline. Side effects include sleepiness, dizziness on standing, movement problems such as stiffness and restlessness, and, after long use, tardive dyskinesiaTAR-div dis-kih-NEE-zhuhA movement disorder with repeated movements a person cannot control, most often of the face, lips and tongue.dys- badkinesi/o movement-ia conditionFull entry .
For the nurse
Watch for abnormal movements, especially of the mouth and tongue, and report high fever with muscle stiffness at once. Teach the client to rise slowly and avoid alcohol. Antipsychotics carry a boxed warning for higher death rates in older adults with dementia.
At a glance
| Drug class | first-generation (typical) antipsychotic, phenothiazine |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Trilafon |
| Spanish | perfenazina |
Related terms
antipsychotic
A drug used to treat psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions, in conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
tardive dyskinesia
A movement disorder with repeated movements a person cannot control, most often of the face, lips and tongue.
fluphenazine
A first-generation antipsychotic drug for schizophrenia, given by mouth or as a long-acting injection.