ZAFRIN

The mode of action of ZAFRIN, as with other drugs having efficacy in schizophrenia, is unknown. However, it has been proposed that this drug’s efficacy in schizophrenia is mediated through a combination of dopamine and serotonin type 2 (5HT2) antagonism.

Peak plasma time: 6 hr (PO) Protein bound: 93%; Volume of distribution: 1000L Extensively metabolized through direct glucuronidation and CYP450 oxidation Half-life: 21-54 hr Excretion: Urine (57%), feces (30%)

Usual Adult dose for Bipolar Disorder Initial dose: 10 or 15 mg orally once a day. Dose adjustments: if indicated, dose adjustments should occur at interval of at least 24 hours in 5 mg increments/decrements Maintenance dose: 5 to 20 mg orally once a day Maximum dose: 20mg orally once a day. Adjunctive treatment with Lithium or Valproate. Initial dose: 10mg orally once a day. For the treatment of Depressive Episodes Associated with Bipolar I disorder when used in Combination with Fluoxetine. Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day (with fluoxetine 20mg.) Dose adjustments: should be made with the individual components within the dose range of 5 to 12.5 mg as indicated according to efficacy and tolerability. Maximum dose: 12.5 mg per day (with fluoxetine 50 mg per day) Usual Adult Dose for Schizophrenia                                                                                                                                        Initial dose 5 to 10 mg orally once a day Target dose: 10mg orally once a day within the first several days; further dose adjustments, if needed, should occur at intervals of not less than 1 week in 5 mg increments/ decrements. Maximum dose: 20mg orally once a day. Usual Adult Dose for Depression Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day (with fluoxetine 20mg) Dose adjustments: should be made with the individual components within the dose range of 5 to 20 mg as indicated according to efficacy and tolerability, Maximum dose: 18 mg per day (with fluoxetine 50 mg per day)

The available dose is 2.5/5/10/20mg tablet. Each strip contains 10 tablets