Question Title: want to know the long term effects of prolixin on the liver

Dear Jackie,

Prolixin (fluphenazine) is a psychoactive drug which belongs to the class of medications called phenothiazines. Prolixin is long acting. Phenothiazines have been associated with a pattern of liver injury called cholestasis (failure of bile to exit the liver). Cholestatic jaundice usually occurs within 3-5 weeks of starting treatment. Elevations of the liver enzyme called alkaline phosphatase and elevated serum cholesterol usually occur. Mild elevations in the liver enzymes called aminotransferases (AST and ALT) may also occur. The prognosis for full recovery is good. Nearly 75 percent of patients with cholestatic jaundice recover completely within 3 months of stopping the drug. In a few cases this may persist for over a year. However, most of these patients recover within a few years. Rarely, does this chronic syndrome progress. Treatment usually involves discontinuation of the drug and symptomatic support. I hope you find this information helpful.

This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.

If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians’ Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.

HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: prolixin (fluphenazine), phenothiazines, cholestatic jaundice