spenzo 3 tablet - Flupenthixol (3mg) medicine

Flupenthixol 3mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 25, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for schizophrenia.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • High fever with severe muscle stiffness and confusion
  • Involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or limbs
  • Fainting or palpitations
  • Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, or dark urine
  • Unusual tiredness, fever, or sore throat
  • Seizures

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is spenzo 3 tablet used for?

Flupenthixol 3 mg tablet is an antipsychotic medicine used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps reduce hallucinations, delusions, and agitation. It is taken by mouth, usually once or twice daily, and the dose is adjusted by a doctor. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and movement side effects, so regular monitoring is important.

  • Generic Name: Flupenthixol (3mg)
  • Manufacturer: Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 spenzo 3 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा फ्लूपेंथिक्सोल नामक तत्व से बनी है और यह एक एंटीसाइकोटिक दवा है। इसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से सिज़ोफ्रेनिया और अन्य मानसिक विकारों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है, जिनमें मतिभ्रम, भ्रम, और बेचैनी जैसे लक्षण शामिल होते हैं। यह दवा मस्तिष्क में डोपामिन रिसेप्टर्स को ब्लॉक करके काम करती है, जिससे मानसिक लक्षण कम होते हैं। यह मुँह से ली जाती है और डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लेनी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के कुछ सामान्य दुष्प्रभाव हो सकते हैं जैसे नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुँह सूखना, कब्ज, और धुंधली दृष्टि। कुछ लोगों में मांसपेशियों में अकड़न, कंपन, या बेचैनी हो सकती है। दुर्लभ मामलों में तेज बुखार, मांसपेशियों में जकड़न, और भ्रम हो सकता है, जिसे तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताना चाहिए। लंबे समय तक उपयोग से चेहरे या जीभ में अनैच्छिक हरकतें हो सकती हैं।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे अचानक बंद न करें, क्योंकि इससे लक्षण वापस आ सकते हैं। यह दवा नींद ला सकती है, इसलिए गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब न पिएं। अगर आपको दिल, जिगर, गुर्दे, या मिर्गी की समस्या है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। नियमित जांच कराते रहें। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 spenzo 3 tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Schizophrenia","description":"This medicine helps reduce hallucinations, delusions, disorganised thinking, and agitation in people with schizophrenia.
  • It is used for both acute episodes and maintenance treatment to prevent relapse.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Other psychotic disorders","description":"It may be used for psychotic symptoms occurring in other conditions, such as schizoaffective disorder or brief psychotic episodes, under specialist care.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Depression with anxiety (adjunct)","description":"In some patients, low doses may be added to antidepressant treatment for depression with anxiety, but this is less common and must be supervised by a psychiatrist.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Severe agitation in dementia","description":"Sometimes used short-term for severe agitation in dementia when other measures have failed, but risks must be weighed carefully.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Tourette syndrome","description":"May be used off-label to reduce tics in some patients, but it is not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Schizophrenia

Also treats: Other psychotic disorders, Depression with anxiety (adjunct)

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Flupenthixol (3mg)
Brand Namespenzo 3 tablet
ManufacturerIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassTypical Antipsychotics
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf LifeNot established from the available information. Check the expiry date on the pack.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not stop this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can cause withdrawal or relapse.
4
Report any unusual movements of the face, tongue, or limbs to your doctor immediately.
5
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to manage weight gain and metabolic effects.
6
Keep all appointments for blood tests, heart checks, and blood pressure monitoring.
7
Inform your doctor if you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Hallucinations
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Delusions
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Agitation
This medicine may help reduce agitation.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionFlupenthixol is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The exact bioavailability is not well established from the available information.
DistributionFlupenthixol is distributed widely into body tissues. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. It is also excreted in breast milk. The exact volume of distribution is not established from the available information.
Protein BindingFlupenthixol is highly bound to plasma proteins, but the exact percentage is not established from the available information.
MetabolismFlupenthixol is metabolised in the liver, mainly by sulfoxidation and glucuronic acid conjugation. The exact enzymes involved are not fully established from the available information.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of oral flupenthixol is approximately 20 to 40 hours, but this can vary between individuals.
ExcretionFlupenthixol and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and faeces. The exact proportions are not established from the available information.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of flupenthixol is not well established from the available information.
Onset of ActionSedative effects may be noticed within a few hours, but the full antipsychotic effect usually takes several days to weeks to become apparent.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma levels after oral administration are usually reached within 3 to 4 hours, but this can vary.
Duration of ActionThe antipsychotic effect lasts for about 24 hours after a single oral dose, which is why it is usually taken once or twice daily.

How It Works

This medicine works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, particularly D1 and D2 receptors. It also affects other receptors such as serotonin and alpha-adrenergic receptors to a lesser extent. By blocking dopamine, it reduces the overactive dopamine signalling that is believed to contribute to hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised thinking in schizophrenia. The blocking of D2 receptors in certain brain pathways also explains many of the movement-related side effects.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to dopamine receptors: This medicine binds to dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the brain and blocks them.
2
Reduction of dopamine signalling: By blocking these receptors, it reduces the effect of dopamine in areas of the brain involved in psychosis.
3
Reduction of psychotic symptoms: This leads to a decrease in hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised thinking.
4
Other receptor effects: Blockade of histamine, alpha-adrenergic, and serotonin receptors contributes to sedation, blood pressure changes, and other effects.

💡 How to Take spenzo 3 tablet

Strength: Flupenthixol 3 mg immediate-release tablet.

1Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water.
2You can take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew it.
4Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual starting dose for adults is 1 mg to 3 mg per day, taken in divided doses or as a single dose, depending on the condition being treated. The dose may be gradually increased by the doctor up to a maximum of 6 mg to 12 mg per day for schizophrenia, but higher doses are rarely used. For maintenance, the lowest effective dose is used. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Do not change the dose without medical advice.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and movement disorders. A lower starting dose is recommended, and the dose should be increased slowly. Regular monitoring is advised.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be needed in patients with kidney disease. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose adjustment may be needed in patients with liver disease. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is usually 12 mg, but this may vary depending on the indication and patient response. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases sedation and drowsiness.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of spenzo 3 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. If it persists, talk to your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (10-20%))
Get up slowly from sitting or lying down. If it continues, inform your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (10-20%))
Sip water frequently, chew sugar-free gum, or use artificial saliva. Tell your doctor if it becomes troublesome.
Constipation (Common (10-20%))
Increase fibre and fluid intake. If it persists, ask your doctor about a laxative.
Blurred vision (Common (5-10%))
Usually temporary. Avoid driving if affected. Consult your doctor if it continues.
Weight gain (Common (5-10%))
Monitor your weight and follow a healthy diet. Discuss with your doctor if concerned.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop high fever, severe muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating, or fast heartbeat.
Tardive dyskinesia (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Report any involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or limbs to your doctor immediately.
Abnormal heart rhythms (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical help if you experience palpitations, fainting, or chest pain.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Get emergency help if you have swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood disorders such as leukopenia
Report unusual tiredness, fever, or sore throat to your doctor.
Liver problems
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain.
Seizures
Seek immediate medical attention if a seizure occurs.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Moderate
Fluoxetine Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Levodopa Major
Metoclopramide Major
Amiodarone Major
Alcohol Major
Antacids Minor
Caffeine Minor
Antihypertensives Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other antipsychotics
  • Central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol)
  • Drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., some antiarrhythmics, antibiotics, antihistamines)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antihypertensives
  • Levodopa and dopamine agonists
  • Metoclopramide

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of falls. It may also worsen some side effects such as low blood pressure.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe drowsiness, unconsciousness, or coma","Known hypersensitivity to flupenthixol or other thioxanthenes","Certain heart rhythm problems such as QT prolongation","Low blood cell counts","Phaeochromocytoma","Severe liver disease","Parkinson's disease"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not stop this medicine suddenly without medical advice, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms or relapse.","Tell your doctor if you have heart, liver, kidney, or thyroid problems.","This medicine can increase blood sugar levels. Monitor if you have diabetes.","It can cause movement disorders. Report any unusual movements to your doctor.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Elderly patients with dementia may have an increased risk of stroke and death when taking antipsychotics.","This medicine may affect your ability to regulate body temperature. Avoid extreme heat."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine passes into breast milk. It may cause side effects in the breastfed infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine unless advised by a doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe drowsiness, low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, and movement problems. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, and monitoring of vital signs. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop it suddenly, because stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms or a return of psychosis. This medicine can make you drowsy, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and should be avoided. Tell your doctor if you have heart problems, liver problems, kidney problems, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate, as this medicine may not be suitable or may need extra monitoring. Regular blood tests, heart checks, and weight monitoring may be needed during treatment. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this medicine. Keep all appointments with your healthcare team, and do not share this medicine with anyone else. Store it safely out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and movement disorders. They may also have an increased risk of falls. A lower starting dose and close monitoring are recommended. Antipsychotics may increase the risk of stroke and death in elderly patients with dementia.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, discuss with your doctor before conceiving. This medicine may not be suitable during pregnancy, and alternative treatments may be considered. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anaesthetist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It may interact with anaesthetic agents and affect blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor may advise temporary dose adjustments.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It can cause dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental problems. Maintain good oral hygiene and stay hydrated.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
🥗
Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your doctor.
😴
Get adequate sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
💧
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
🧘
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
🌞
Stay connected with your support network and attend follow-up appointments.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how it affects you. Stay hydrated during exercise, especially in hot weather, as this medicine can affect body temperature regulation.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit sugary and processed foods to manage weight and blood sugar.
Stay well hydrated.
Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed.
Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important to avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Discuss any work-related concerns with your doctor. With proper management, many people can continue their normal daily activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or wish to stop, your doctor will advise on gradual dose reduction to avoid withdrawal symptoms or relapse.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of tardive dyskinesia, weight gain, diabetes, and heart rhythm problems. Regular monitoring of weight, blood sugar, lipid profile, and heart function is recommended. The dose should be reviewed periodically to ensure it is the lowest effective dose. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Can complement medicine in managing psychotic symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Family therapy and support

Helps improve outcomes and adherence.

Evidence: Well-established
Lifestyle modifications

Regular exercise, healthy diet, and sleep hygiene can improve overall well-being.

Evidence: Established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no specific vaccine interactions known with this medicine. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine, especially live vaccines, while on antipsychotic treatment.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss. Store it at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check customs regulations for controlled medicines before travelling internationally.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man with schizophrenia
He was started on this medicine 3 mg daily for hallucinations and agitation. After 2 weeks, his symptoms improved significantly. He experienced mild drowsiness initially, which reduced over time. He was advised not to stop the medicine suddenly and to attend regular follow-ups.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and regular follow-up help control symptoms and prevent relapse.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with psychotic depression
She was prescribed this medicine as an add-on to her antidepressant. She noticed improvement in her mood and reduced anxiety. She was monitored for movement side effects and blood sugar levels. She was advised to avoid alcohol and to report any unusual movements.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can be effective as an adjunct, but monitoring for side effects is essential.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Sedative effects may be noticed within a few hours, but the full antipsychotic effect usually takes several days to weeks.

Q: Can I stop this medicine if I feel better?

A: No, do not stop suddenly. Consult your doctor first, as stopping abruptly can cause relapse or withdrawal symptoms.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: No, alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. It is best to avoid alcohol.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Will it cause weight gain?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?

🔄 Substitutes for spenzo 3 tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Antipsychotics are only for severe mental illness.
    Fact: They are also used for other conditions and can help many people lead normal lives.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: Stopping suddenly can cause relapse. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
  • Myth: This medicine is addictive.
    Fact: Flupenthixol is not addictive, but it should be taken as prescribed.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Flupenthixol 3 mg tablet (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Fluanxol 3 mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Flupenthixol","class":"Thioxanthene","common_side_effects":"Drowsiness, movement disorders, dry mouth","sedation":"Moderate to high"},{"medicine":"Haloperidol","class":"Butyrophenone","common_side_effects":"Movement disorders, drowsiness","sedation":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Risperidone","class":"Atypical antipsychotic","common_side_effects":"Weight gain, metabolic effects, movement disorders","sedation":"Low to moderate"}]

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