Fluphenazine
Fluphenazine is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic medication belonging to the phenothiazine class. It is primarily used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders by helping to reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. This medication is available in both oral and long-acting injectable forms.
Fluphenazine is an antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and other serious mental health conditions by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05AB02
- RxNorm
- 4496
- Generic
- Fluphenazine
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, including symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thought patterns. The long-acting decanoate formulation is particularly useful for patients who have difficulty adhering to daily oral medications.
Fluphenazine works primarily by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, which helps reduce the positive symptoms of psychosis. It also has antagonist effects on other neurotransmitter receptors including alpha-adrenergic and histamine receptors.
Like other typical antipsychotics, fluphenazine carries a significant risk of extrapyramidal side effects including tardive dyskinesia, dystonia, and parkinsonism. It may also cause sedation, weight gain, and orthostatic hypotension. Regular monitoring for side effects and periodic assessment of movement disorders is essential during treatment. Patients should not stop taking this medication abruptly without medical supervision.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy