Key takeaways
Fluphenazine (generic, formerly known as Prolixin) and trifluoperazine (generic, formerly known as Stelazine) are both typical antipsychotics, but they have some differences. Fluphenazine is mainly used to treat psychotic disorders and is available in both short-acting and long-acting forms, which can be taken orally or by injection. In contrast, trifluoperazine is used to manage schizophrenia and anxiety, and it is only available in oral form. Fluphenazine is typically taken multiple times a day, while trifluoperazine is usually taken twice daily. Both medications can cause movement problems, including tardive dyskinesia, a condition that causes uncontrollable movements. Additionally, fluphenazine is not safe for older adults with dementia-related psychosis, and trifluoperazine carries a similar risk for this population. Both medications can cause drowsiness and other side effects, but trifluoperazine can also lead to liver damage.
