Stela

Stela Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Stela is a brand name. Its generic name is Trifluoperazine.

Introduction

Stela is an antipsychotic medication that is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucination, delusions, unorganized thought processes, and feelings of alienation. It can also be used to treat symptoms of other mental disorders, such as Tourette syndrome, bipolar disorder and anxiety. Stela is not meant to be used as a long-term treatment, as it becomes less effective after prolonged use.

Uses for

Stela is mainly used to treat schizophrenia and other mental disorders. It may be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications to treat psychological symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech, abnormal behaviors, and social withdrawal. It can also be used to treat Tourette syndrome, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.

Mechanism of Action

Stela works by blocking certain receptors in the brain. This results in an imbalance of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin. This imbalance reduces the intensity of the psychological symptoms, allowing the person to function better.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effect of trifluoperazine can be seen within a few days of treatment. It usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to reach maximum effectiveness. It is important to continue taking the medication even if improvement in symptoms is seen within a few days, as the medication needs time to build up in the body.

Absorption

Stela is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is rapidly absorbed and reaches peak levels in the bloodstream in about an hour.

Route of Elimination

Stela is primarily metabolized in the liver and eliminated from the body in the urine.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dose of trifluoperazine is 1-2 mg per day orally. The dosage should be adjusted according to response and side effects, with the aim of achieving the minimum effective dose. It can be taken with or without food.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of trifluoperazine include drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurry vision, difficulty in urinating, and sexual dysfunction. Other side effects include weight gain, tremors, muscle stiffness, and restlessness. Serious side effects include changes in breathing patterns, confusion, increased heart rate, and abnormal movements.

Toxicity

Stela is generally considered to be a safe drug. Overdose can lead to serious side effects including confusion, agitation, seizures, and coma. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Precautions

It is important to inform the doctor about any other medical conditions before taking trifluoperazine. Stela should not be taken if the person has ever had a reaction to a similar medication. It may cause drowsiness, so it is important not to drive or operate machinery while taking it. It is also important to avoid taking alcohol while taking trifluoperazine.

Interactions

It is important to inform the doctor about all medications taken, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Stela can interact with several medications, including antidepressants, sedatives, antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and seizure medications. It should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

Disease Interactions

Stela should not be used in people with certain medical conditions, such as lung or kidney diseases, glaucoma, or seizure disorders. It should also not be used in people with a sensitivity to drugs similar to trifluoperazine.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications can interact with trifluoperazine. These include antidepressants, serotonin reuptake inhibitors, blood pressure medications, sedatives, antihistamines, and seizure medications. It is important to inform the doctor of all medications being taken before taking trifluoperazine.

Food Interactions

Stela can interact with certain foods. It is important to avoid food and drinks that contain alcohol while taking trifluoperazine. It is also important to avoid foods that contain tyramine, which can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Pregnancy Use

Stela should not be used in pregnant women. It can cause severe side effects in the fetus, including low birth weight, abnormal movements, and increased risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). It should not be used during pregnancy unless the risks outweigh the benefits.

Lactation Use

Stela should not be used by women who are nursing. It can pass into breast milk and cause severe side effects in the nursing baby.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of trifluoperazine is a medical emergency and should be treated immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, agitation, seizures, and coma. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Contraindication

Stela should not be used in people with certain medical conditions, such as lung or kidney diseases, glaucoma, and seizure disorders. It should also not be used in people with a sensitivity to drugs similar to trifluoperazine.

Use Directions

Stela should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. It should be taken with or without food. The dosage should be adjusted as necessary to achieve the desired effect, with the aim of achieving the minimum effective dose. It is important to take the medication for the entire duration of the prescription, even if the symptoms improve quickly, as it takes time to build up in the body.

Storage Conditions

Stela should be stored at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct light. It should not be frozen or kept in the refrigerator.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of trifluoperazine is 0.5 to 1.9 L/kg.

Half Life

The average half-life of trifluoperazine is 4 to 6 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of trifluoperazine is 25 to 28 L/hr/kg.

Here you find in details version of Stela

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Stela

What is Stela?

Stela is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.

How does Stela work?

Stela works by blocking the action of a chemical messenger in the brain called dopamine. This helps to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia.

What are the possible side effects of Stela?

Common side effects of Stela can include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and weight gain.

How often should I take Stela?

It is important to take Stela exactly as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will tell you how often to take Stela.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Stela?

If you miss a dose of Stela, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on your regular dosing schedule.

Should I avoid any foods while taking Stela?

You should avoid alcohol while taking Stela. Eating foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheese and cured meats, can also cause dangerous increases in blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about any specific foods you should avoid.

How long does it take for Stela to start working?

It can take several weeks for Stela to take full effect. Your doctor may adjust your dosage if needed after several weeks.

Is Stela used to treat anxiety?

Stela is used to treat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions, but it is not typically used to treat anxiety.

Can Stela be used in children?

Stela should not be used in children under 12 years of age. Talk to your doctor before giving Stela to a child.

Can I take Stela while pregnant?

Stela is classified as a pregnancy Category C drug, which means that using it during pregnancy may be risky. Talk to your doctor before taking Stela if you are pregnant.

Should I avoid certain activities while taking Stela?

You should avoid activities that require alertness, such as operating machinery or driving. Some common side effects of Stela, such as drowsiness and blurred vision, can make these activities unsafe.

Can Stela be abused?

Stela is not typically abused, but it can be habit-forming. Talk to your doctor if you think you may be developing a dependence on Stela.

Can I drink grapefruit juice while taking Stela?

No, you should not drink grapefruit juice while taking Stela. Grapefruit juice can interact with Stela and potentially increase your risk of side effects.

Can I take Stela with other medications?

Before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter drugs, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Certain medications can interact with Stela and increase your risk of side effects.

Are there any alternative medications to Stela?

Yes, there are other medications that can be used to treat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions. Talk to your doctor about alternative options.

Can Stela be used long-term?

Yes, Stela can be taken long-term, but your doctor will need to monitor your symptoms and adjust your dosage as needed.

Can I stop taking Stela suddenly?

No, you should not stop taking Stela suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dosage to prevent any withdrawal symptoms.

What should I do if I have suicidal thoughts while taking Stela?

If you experience any suicidal thoughts while taking Stela, contact your doctor immediately. There are other medications and therapies that can help reduce suicidal thoughts.

Can I take Stela with other antidepressants?

You should talk to your doctor before taking Stela with other antidepressants. Certain interactions can increase your risk of side effects.

Does Stela cause weight gain?

Yes, Stela can cause weight gain. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly if you are taking this medication.

Can Stela cause headaches?

Yes, Stela can cause headaches as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you experience persistent or severe headaches while taking this medication.

Should I avoid exposure to the sun while taking Stela?

Yes, you should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun while taking Stela. This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun, which can increase your risk of sunburn.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Stela?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Stela. Alcohol can increase your risk of side effects and worsen your symptoms.

Can I take Stela if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, Stela can be taken if you have high blood pressure. Make sure to talk to your doctor before taking this medication.

What are the common signs of an overdose of Stela?

Common signs of an overdose of Stela can include drowsiness, fainting, and an irregular heart rate. If you think you have taken an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Does Stela cause constipation?

Yes, Stela can cause constipation as a side effect. Drinking plenty of water and eating high-fiber foods can help minimize constipation.

Can Stela cause drowsiness?

Yes, Stela can cause drowsiness as a side effect. Make sure to avoid activities that require alertness, such as operating machinery, while taking this medication.

Can Stela cause trouble sleeping?

Yes, Stela can cause trouble sleeping as a side effect. Talk to your doctor about taking Stela at a time of day that won't interfere with your sleep.

Does Stela interact with antibiotics?

Yes, Stela can interact with certain antibiotics. Make sure to talk to your doctor before taking antibiotics while taking Stela.

Can Stela cause blurred vision?

Yes, Stela can cause blurred vision as a side effect. If you experience blurred vision while taking this medication, talk to your doctor.

Does Stela cause dry mouth?

Yes, Stela can cause dry mouth as a side effect. Drinking plenty of fluids and chewing sugarless gum can help minimize dry mouth.

Can Stela be used to treat bipolar disorder?

Stela is typically not used to treat bipolar disorder. Talk to your doctor about other medications and therapies that may be more effective in treating bipolar disorder.

Can Stela cause mood swings?

Yes, Stela can cause mood swings as a side effect. If you experience any changes in your mood while taking this medication, talk to your doctor.

Does Stela interact with vitamins?

Yes, Stela can interact with certain vitamins. Make sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements while taking Stela.

Can Stela cause dizziness?

Yes, Stela can cause dizziness as a side effect. If you experience dizziness while taking this medication, talk to your doctor about adjustments to your dosage.

Can Stela be used to treat depression?

Stela is typically not used to treat depression. Talk to your doctor about other medications and therapies that may be more effective.

Is Stela addictive?

Stela is not typically addictive, but it can be habit-forming. Talk to your doctor if you think you may be developing a dependence on Stela.

Does Stela cause nausea?

Yes, Stela can cause nausea as a side effect. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding high-fat foods can help minimize nausea.

Does Stela cause hair loss?

Yes, Stela can cause hair loss as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you experience persistent or severe hair loss while taking this medication.

Can Stela be used to treat OCD?

Stela can be used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), but it is typically used in combination with other medications. Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for OCD.

Can Stela be used to treat social anxiety disorder?

Stela can be used to treat social anxiety disorder, but it is usually used in combination with other medications. Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for social anxiety disorder.