Indicated for: schizophrenia; bipolar disorder
Route of administration: injectable
Substance: zuclopenthixol (antipsychotic)
ATC: N05AF05 (Nervous system | Antipsychotics | Thioxanthene derivatives)
Zuclopenthixol is an antipsychotic medication from the thioxanthene class, used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, agitation, and aggressive behavior. It works by blocking dopamine (D2) receptors in the brain, reducing psychotic symptoms and stabilizing mental state.
Zuclopenthixol is available in three main forms:
- Zuclopenthixol decanoate (long-acting injection) – used for maintenance treatment in patients with chronic schizophrenia or persistent psychotic disorders.
- Zuclopenthixol acetate (rapid-acting injection) – used for managing acute episodes of agitation or aggression.
- Zuclopenthixol dihydrochloride (tablets) – used for short-term treatment or as a transitional therapy.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and extrapyramidal symptoms (such as muscle stiffness or tremors). In rare cases, it may cause more severe reactions, such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome or tardive dyskinesia.
Treatment with zuclopenthixol should be administered under the supervision of a doctor, and patients should be regularly monitored to assess effectiveness and manage potential side effects. It is important for patients to follow the prescribed dosage and not discontinue treatment without consulting their doctor.