ZOTEPINE

It is an atypical antipsychotic. In short-term studies in schizophrenic patients it was as effective as haloperidol and chlorpromazine in the treatment of positive symptoms. In the treatment of negative symptoms it was significantly more effective than placebo and haloperidol and equivalent to chlorpromazine.

Indications

schizophrenia.

Dosage

Oral; 25-100mg three times a day.

Contra-Indications

Patients with preexisting QT prolongation. Treatment of behaviour problems in elderly with dementia. Severe CNS depression. Personal or family history of epilepsy. Acute gout, history of nephrolithiasis. lactation.

Special Precautions

Takes empty stomach. Pregnancy: Category B; use if needed.

Side Effects

Sweating, blurring of vision. Extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia with prolonged treatment. GI disturbances, blood dyscrasias, Headache, asthenia, hypotension, Tachycardia, elevated LFT, increased prolactin levels, wt gain, constipation, agitation, dizziness, insomnia, somnolence, photosensitisation, neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Drug Interactions

Other antipsychotics, fluoxetine, diazepam. Increased CNS depression with alcohol, CNS depressants.