Thioproperazine: uses and side effects of this antipsychotic
Thioproperazine is a typical antipsychotic , also known as neuroleptic, which as such acts by blocking some neurotransmitter receptors such as those responsible for the regulation of dopamine, which is associated with the decrease of typical manifestations of schizophrenia.
In this article we will see what thioproperazine is and what it is for, as well as some of its indications and possible adverse effects.
- Related article: "Types of antipsychotics (or neuroleptics)"
What is thioproperazine and what is it for?
Thioproperazine is a drug that belongs to the category of antipsychotics . The latter includes chemical compounds that are used especially to eradicate some typical manifestations of the diagnosis of schizophrenia, but also to treat symptoms associated with bipolar disorders, both in episodes of mania and in depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders and some manifestations of dementia.
Mechanism of action
Thioproperazine it works by blocking the dopaminergic receptors of the central nervous system . In this way, it has neuroleptic effects and blocks some thoughts, among which are delusions and hallucinations. Therefore, the other term with which this type of medicine has traditionally been known is that of neuroleptics.
This neuroleptic action produces a potent effect on manic excitement, which is why thioproperazine is considered effective in the treatment of motor excitation seizures, both in the course of some types of schizophrenia and in the case of some types of epilepsy .
This occurs because thioproperazine acts in the central nervous system, more specifically on the ascending reticular system, the limbic system and the hypothalamus , which are fundamental subcortical centers for the activation of various human faculties.
Precisely, the drawback of these drugs is that they have a high probability of causing serious adverse reactions that significantly alter some dimensions of the life of the person who has the diagnosis. It is a type of medication with a high risk of toxicity, which is why its use requires strict medical surveillance , and in some countries it has stopped being commercialized.
Presentation and dosage
Thioproperazine is marketed under the name of Majeptil. Its composition is in 10 mg tablets for oral administration . This administration depends on the characteristics and medical history of each person, however, 2 or 3 daily doses of 30-40 mg are prescribed, which are achieved progressively.
Considerations and precautions for this drug
The general recommendation was to maintain surveillance in the case of a history of liver disease as well as in cases of epilepsy and serious cardiovascular diseases, due to high risk of causing serious ventricular arrhythmias .
Thioproperazine is contraindicated in combination with respiratory center depressants, antihypertensives. Its absorption in the body can be reduced by interacting with some common compounds such as salts, oxides and different hydroxides. Likewise, it increases the depressant action of the central nervous system when mixed with other sedatives, chemical compounds derived from morphine, barbiturates, hypnotics, methadone, clonidine and anxiolytics.
As to the risks of use during pregnancy There are no studies, so its use is not advised, especially from the last trimester of the gestational period. The same happens with regard to its use during the lactation period.
Finally, while it produces a significant alteration in the state of wakefulness and drowsiness, it is important to take precautions when driving or operating heavy machinery.
Possible side effects
As we said before, the high probability of generating serious adverse reactions has meant that this substance has been replaced by other types of drugs that have similar functions, with less risk of toxicity.
The effects of diminishing delusions and hallucinations they are related to the blockade of the dopaminergic centers of the limbic system that causes thioproperazine. In turn, adverse effects related to the nervous system, such as extrapyramidal syndrome, are related to blockage of the striatum.
Some of the adverse effects of thioproperazine are the following:
- Severe cardiovascular diseases .
- Epileptic seizures, especially when there have been antecedents before treatment.
- Weight loss and alterations in glucose tolerance.
- Hepatic or renal insufficiency for risk of overdose.
The extrapyramidal syndrome can also appear, characterized by inability to express oneself through mime or gestures, some manifestations similar to those of Parkinson's, a particular type of gait inclined forward, without arm movement and with small steps, muscular rigidity, thick tremor during the resting state.
Bibliographic references:
- Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products (2007). Antipsychotics Review of safety in the treatment of psychotic symptoms associated with dementia. Retrieved August 16, 2018. Available at //www.aemps.gob.es/informa/notasInformativas/medicamentosUsoHumano/seguridad/2008/docs/informe_antipsicoticos_CSMH_2007.pdf.
- Botplusweb (1999). Majeptil. Data sheet. Retrieved August 16, 2018. Available at //botplusweb.portalfarma.com/documentos/FICHAS%20TECNICAS%20POR%20LABORATORIOS%20PDF/Aventis%20Pharma/f36000%20Majeptil.PDF.
- Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products (S / A). Use of antipsychotics in Spain (1992-2006). Retrieved August 16, 2018. Available at //www.aemps.gob.es/medicamentosUsoHumano/observatorio/docs/antipsicoticos.pdf.
