Dolmatil (Sulpiride, antipsychotic agent)

Dolmatil is the brand name of the drug sulpiride. Sulpiride is a second-generation or atypical antipsychotic medication.

Uses

What is Dolmatil used for?

Dolmatil is commonly used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia.

How should I take Dolmatil?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid.

At the end of therapy, the dose should be tapered down or gradually reduced to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

How do I store Dolmatil (Sulpiride)?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Dolmatil?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

This drug crosses the placenta and is present in breast milk. Avoid using it while pregnant, especially in the third trimester. It may cause abnormal muscle movements or withdrawal symptoms in newborns who were exposed to it in the womb. Additionally, it causes hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin) which can affect female reproductive function. Women who are taking this drug should use effective contraception to avoid becoming pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from Dolmatil?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Postural hypotension
• Hyperprolactinemia
• Weight gain
• Increased liver enzymes
• Drowsiness or sedation
• Insomnia
• Extrapyramidal symptoms
• Rash
• Thromboembolism
• Abnormal blood counts

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• QT prolongation
• Ventricular arrhythmias

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Dolmatil?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Antihypertensive agents
• Diuretics
• Stimulant laxatives
• Amphotericin B
• Glucocorticoids
• Antacids
• Lithium
• Ropinorole
• Levodopa *potentially fatal
• Neuroleptics *potentially fatal

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Dolmatil?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Avoid consuming products with alcohol while taking this drug. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Dolmatil?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Pheochromocytoma
• Porphyria
• Prolactin-dependent tumors
• Parkinson’s disease
• Epilepsy
• Cardiovascular disorders
• Stroke
• Kidney impairment
• Dementia

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Anxiety (short-term treatment)

Take 50 to 150 mg each day for up to 4 weeks.

Psychotic disorders

Via intramuscular injection, administer 400 to 800 mg per day for 2 weeks. Transition to oral therapy after this time, if necessary.

For oral dosage forms, take 400 mg twice a day. Adjust the dose accordingly, up to 2.4 g per day. For mixed positive and negative symptoms of psychosis, take 400 to 600 mg per day.

Additional notes:

• When therapy is stopped, the dose should be tapered down to prevent withdrawal symptoms. This transition period may take months to years.
• If the antipsychotic needs to be switched, cross-titration may be required. This involves gradually lowering the dose of the current drug while gradually increasing the dose of the new drug.

What is the dose for a child?

Behavioral disorders

Age 6 years and older: Give 5 to 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day.

There is no established pediatric dose for children under 6 years olf. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Dolmatil available?

Dolmatil is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablets 200 mg, 400 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.