Questions and Answers
Is Loxapine a brand or generic medication?
What class of medication is Loxapine?
Conventional antipsychotic
What conditions is Loxapine commonly prescribed for?
Schizophrenia and acute agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
What tests are recommended before starting treatment with Loxapine?
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What are some noticeable side effects of Loxapine?
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Weight gain is a common side effect of Loxapine.
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Sedation is a common side effect of Loxapine.
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What is the usual dosage range of Loxapine?
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What forms is Loxapine available in?
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What is the recommended initial dosage for Loxapine?
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How should Loxapine be discontinued?
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How should Loxapine be used in special populations such as those with renal or hepatic impairment?
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What caution should be taken for elderly patients prescribed Loxapine?
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Is the safety and efficacy of Loxapine established in children?
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What caution should be taken regarding Loxapine during pregnancy?
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Study Notes
Loxapine Overview
- Brands include Loxitane and Adasuve.
- Classified as a conventional antipsychotic.
Indications
- FDA-approved for schizophrenia and acute agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
- Off-label uses include other psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
Monitoring and Testing
- Weigh all patients before starting treatment to assess if they are overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9) or obese (BMI ≥30).
- Monitor weight and BMI during treatment to identify potential complications.
- Consider monthly monitoring of fasting triglycerides in patients at high risk for metabolic issues.
- Patients with low white blood cell counts or history of drug-induced leucopenia should have CBC monitored regularly during initial months.
Side Effects
- Noticeable side effects include neuroleptic-induced deficit syndrome, akathisia, extrapyramidal symptoms, parkinsonism, and tardive dyskinesia.
- Sedation is common; weight gain is unusual.
Dosage and Administration
- Typical dosage range is 60-100 mg/day, split into multiple doses.
- Initial dosing involves 20 mg/day in two doses, titrated to 60-100 mg/day within 7-10 days.
- Maximum dosage generally is 250 mg/day.
- Liquid formulation should be taken with orange or grapefruit juice.
- Inhalant powder is administered as 10 mg via inhalation once every 24 hours, requiring professional supervision.
Tapering
- Taper oral formulation gradually over at least four weeks to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
- Rapid discontinuation can lead to rebound psychosis; continue antiparkinson agents for a few weeks post-discontinuation.
Special Populations
- Renal impairment: Use with caution.
- Hepatic impairment: Use with caution.
- Cardiac issues: Use with caution.
- Elderly: Lower doses may be better tolerated; increased risks of death and cerebrovascular events in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
- Children: Safety and efficacy not established; usually considered as a second-line option after atypical antipsychotics.
- Pregnancy: Safety information not provided.
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Description
This quiz covers important details about Loxapine, including its indications, monitoring requirements, and potential side effects. It is essential for healthcare professionals involved in managing patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Gain a better understanding of how to effectively monitor and treat with Loxapine.
