Uses

Indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and for control of severe nausea and vomiting in adults. It is a piperazine phenothiazine antipsychotic.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in comatose or heavily sedated patients, in those receiving large doses of CNS depressants, and in patients with pre-existing blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, liver damage, or known hypersensitivity to phenothiazines.

Side effects

Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) are common with perphenazine, including parkinsonism, dystonia, and akathisia. Tardive dyskinesia may occur with prolonged use. Sedation, anticholinergic effects, and rarely jaundice or blood dyscrasias have been reported.

Warnings

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotics have an increased risk of death. Not approved for use in dementia-related psychosis. Monitor for tardive dyskinesia with prolonged treatment.

How it works

Perphenazine is a piperazine phenothiazine that blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic system, producing antipsychotic effects. Peak plasma concentrations occur 1–3 hours after oral administration with an elimination half-life of 9–12 hours.

Storage

Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.