Fluphenazine Injectable Solution (FLUPHENAZINE DECANOATE - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine is injected into the skin. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist where on your body this medicine can be injected and how to inject it.

The liquid should be clear or light yellow.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Store this medicine at room temperature - below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C).

Protect medicine from light.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

To relieve dry mouth, chew gum, suck on hard candy/ice chips, drink extra water, or use a saliva substitute.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

This medicine is not recommended for use in children younger than 12.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If possible, avoid using with alcohol, marijuana, or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Avoid becoming overheated during exercise or other activities. Try to stay cool in hot weather.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine should be used with caution in patients with breathing difficulties.

If you have a painful erection or an erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical care right away.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• decreased appetite
• blurry vision
• constipation
• dizziness or drowsiness
• lack of energy and tiredness
• headaches
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• decreased awareness or responsiveness
• bleeding or bruising
• breast milk
• breast pain or swelling
• chest pain
• confusion
• bad dreams
• drooling
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• face appearing mask-like
• fainting
• high fever
• fast or irregular heart beats
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
• mood changes
• uncontrollable movement of face, tongue, arms or legs
• tight or rigid muscles
• muscle weakness
• joint or muscle pain
• nervousness
• butterfly-shaped rash on nose and cheeks
• restlessness
• seizures
• problems with sexual functions or desire
• shakiness
• sore throat
• difficulty swallowing
• increased urinary frequency
• difficulty or discomfort urinating
• sudden or unexplained weight gain

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.