Modecate (fluphenazine) is a potent antipsychotic treatment used to treat schizophrenia and similar conditions. The medication is effective at disrupting active psychotic episodes as well as reducing their frequency and severity in the future.

This medication comes in both tablets and injectable fluid. Injections are preferred for treating active episodes, as the medication works much quicker and it's much easier to adjust dosage. Tablets are often preferred for maintenance treatment between episodes, but injections can be utilized for this purpose as well.

Fluid for injection should be stored at room temperature and kept out of direct light. Prior to administration it should be gently shaken and visually inspected; if it is cloudy, discolored, or contains particulates it should be discarded.

What to Expect from Modecate

The exact mechanism of action in inhibiting psychotic behavior is unclear, but it does work. Modecate is a very potent medication that effects the central nervous system and nearly every organ in the body.

Patients who take Modecate experience:

• Fewer delusions or hallucinations
• Less erratic or bizarre behavior
• Improved mental focus
• Better clarity and control of thoughts
• Improved impulse control

While many patients do have some lingering symptoms even with treatment, for the most part they're milder and patients are easily able to recognize them as symptoms. This can make a tremendous difference in quality of life as patients are better able to live independently, avoid hospitalization, avoid self-harm or destructive behavior, and avoid embarrassing episodes.

Though beneficial, keep in mind this is a very potent medication. Care should be taken to use Modecate exactly as directed by a doctor.

Do not use Modecate to modify behavior in patients with mental retardation, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or brain damage due to injury. It should also not be used in patients with liver disease, blood cell disorders, or bone marrow disorders. Use of Modecate in these scenarios can produce very serious, even fatal, complications.

Taking Modecate

Treatment will vary depending on whether Modecate is being used to manage a psychotic episode in progress or to prevent them from occurring in the future. In both cases treatment is best begun under supervision of a doctor until effects are known; response to treatment can vary greatly between individuals. Individual factors like age and weight should also be taken into account.

In psychotic episodes, As little as 1 mg may be given at first, which may be increased up to 40 mg per day. The majority of patients have satisfactory results under 20 mg. Higher doses are typically divided into smaller doses given throughout the day. Higher doses should not be taken long-term.

For maintenance doses most patients find 1 mg to 5 mg per day effective, usually in a single daily dose, with or without food as desired. Maintenance treatment may continue for as long as deemed beneficial; it may take a couple of weeks of regular use to see significant improvements.

Duration of treatment is also highly variable and best determined by a doctor.

Potential Complications

A concern with Modecate is that, like other antipsychotic medications, it can produce extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) in patients, though it is rare. This term refers to a range of movement disorders, including:

• Tremors
• Rapid or irregular breathing
• Uncontrolled movements of head, limbs, back, or face
• Excessive pacing or foot-tapping
• Muscle stiffness or rigidity
• No arm movement when walking
• Inability to make facial expressions
• Drooling

There is an association with EPS being more likely to develop with higher doses and longer-term treatment. In many cases, but unfortunately not all, symptoms will reverse if treatment stops. Patients should be alert for symptoms developing and seek medical attention at the earliest signs something is wrong.

Modecate can interact with a wide range of other medications, including some over-the-counter medications. Double-check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication for the duration of treatment with Modecate.