Fluphenazine Drug Level (Blood)

Does this test have other names?

No.

What is this test?

This blood test measures the amount of the medicine fluphenazine in your blood. Fluphenazine is an antipsychotic medicine used to treat schizophrenia and Tourette syndrome. Fluphenazine may help you think more clearly. It also improves social exchanges, paranoia, and mood. It can also help reduce involuntary movement related to Huntington chorea. The medicine can take several weeks before it starts to work.

Fluphenazine has side effects that can be severe, and it should be taken with caution. Older adults who use this medicine for dementia are at a higher risk of dying. It is not safe to use this medicine if you are allergic to it. You should not take this medicine if you have central nervous system (brain) problems, a low blood cell count, or liver disease, or if you are breastfeeding. 

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if it's possible that you have overdosed on fluphenazine or if you have dangerous side effects of the medicine. These include:

• Tightness in your chest

• Itchiness

• Bluish skin

• Seizures

• Swelling in your face, lips, tongue, or throat

• Extreme dizziness or fainting

• Blurred vision

• Irregular heartbeats (heart arrhythmias)

• Inability to urinate

• Fatigue

• Rash

• Wheezing

• Fever

If you have any of these symptoms or believe you have overdosed on the medicine, call your healthcare provider or 911 right away. 

What do my test results mean?

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. They may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.

The normal range of fluphenazine in the blood if taken as prescribed is 1 to 10 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

You can have side effects with any dose of fluphenazine. 

How is this test done?

The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand. 

Does this test pose any risks?

Having a blood test with a needle has some risks. These include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. Afterward, the site may be sore. 

What might affect my test results?

No factors are likely to affect your test results.

How do I get ready for this test?

You don't need to prepare for this test. Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use.