Sulpiride - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Sulpiride is used to treat schizophrenia (an illness that causes changes in perception, thoughts and behaviour). It helps relieve symptoms common in schizophrenia, such as distorted thinking and emotional instability.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Sulpiride exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Sulpiride is available as a tablet or oral solution.

If you are taking the tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water.

If you are taking an oral solution, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.

Sulpiride must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed otherwise, as stopping it suddenly could worsen your condition.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
  • phaeochromocytoma (a rare tumour of the adrenal gland causing high blood pressure)
  • porphyria (an inherited disorder that causes skin or nervous system abnormalities)
  • breast cancer or cancer in the pituitary gland
  • bone marrow suppression (a condition in which the blood cells are low)
  • alcohol related illness or any other problems that may affect your nervous system
  • severe kidney disease
  • severe liver disease
as Sulpiride may not be suitable for you.

Do not take Sulpiride with Levodopa (medicine to treat Parkinson's disease).
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • hypomania (mood swings characterized as euphoria, aggressive behaviour, or agitation)
  • Alzheimer's disease (a progressive disease which destroys the memory and other important mental functions)
  • low white blood cell in the body
  • heart disease e.g. slow heartbeat
  • stroke or history of stroke
  • Parkinson's disease (disorder that affects the movement of a person, causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and impaired balance or walking)
  • epilepsy (fits or seizures) or history of epilepsy
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease or history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes with stomach pain, persistent tiredness, nausea or vomiting)
  • lung disease
  • diabetes mellitus
  • low level of potassium in the blood
  • glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
  • high blood pressure
  • stomach problems
  • enlarged prostate
  • myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Sulpiride is not suitable for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
What side effects could I experience?
Sulpiride may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

This medicine may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.

Other side effects include any of the following: difficulty sleeping, blurred vision, feeling depressed; breast swelling, pain or secretion; muscle pain or spasm, trembling or slow movements, weight gain, constipation, and skin rash.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
  • very fast or abnormal heartbeat
  • breath that smells like fruit, fast breathing, increased thirst and hunger, passing urine more often, flushing, and feeling sleepy
  • muscle stiffness, unexplained high fever, dizziness, very bad headache, confusion, change in thinking, fast heartbeat, excessive sweating
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Do not take Sulpiride with Levodopa (medicine to treat Parkinson's disease).

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
  • medicines for heart disease e.g. quinidine, amiodarone, sotalol, disopyramide
  • medicines for mood disorders e.g. fluoxetine, amitriptyline, lithium
  • medicines for high blood pressure e.g. diltiazem, verapamil
  • other medicines for Parkinson's disease e.g. ropinirole
  • water pill or medicine for water retention
  • certain antibiotics e.g. amphotericin B
  • sucralfate (medicine for stomach ulcers)
  • strong pain killers
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Sulpiride.

Sulpiride must not be taken together with antacids. If you must take antacids, take them at least 2 hours after you have taken Sulpiride.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements. and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Sulpiride.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on sulpiride - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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