Orap (Pimozide)

Pimozide, the active ingredient in Orap, is a typical antipsychotic presented as a tablet for oral use. It is used to manage Tourette syndrome and certain chronic psychotic disorders in adults and adolescents.

GNH USA supplies Orap as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Pimozide acts on dopaminergic pathways to control tic and psychotic symptoms. It is indicated for: - Tourette syndrome: reduces motor and vocal tics in children and adults. - Chronic schizophrenia: helps control persistent psychotic symptoms when other agents are insufficient. - Other tic disorders: alleviates severe motor tics unresponsive to first‑line therapy.

Pimozide may cause a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects: - Sedation: feeling unusually drowsy or sleepy. - Extrapyramidal symptoms: muscle stiffness, tremor, or restlessness. - Dry mouth: reduced salivation leading to discomfort. - Constipation: slowed bowel movements. - Blurred vision: temporary visual disturbances. - Weight gain: increase in body weight over time.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Tardive dyskinesia: involuntary, repetitive movements. - Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: high fever, muscle rigidity, autonomic instability. - QT interval prolongation: risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias. - Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure. - Agranulocytosis: dangerous reduction in white blood cells. - Seizures: occurrence of convulsive episodes.

Before initiating pimozide therapy, consider the following precautions: - Cardiac monitoring: obtain baseline ECG due to QT‑prolongation risk. - CNS depression: avoid alcohol and other sedatives. - Pregnancy: contraindicated; discuss risks with a specialist. - Breastfeeding: not recommended as drug passes into milk. - Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for CYP3A4 inhibitors. - Renal/hepatic impairment: adjust dose in patients with organ dysfunction. - Store at ambient temperature: keep in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Pimozide can interact with several medicines.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): increase pimozide levels. - QT‑prolonging agents (e.g., quinidine, sotalol): additive cardiac risk. - Other antipsychotics: heightened extrapyramidal side effects. - MAO inhibitors: risk of severe hypotension. - Antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone): potential cardiac toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin): may reduce efficacy. - Antihypertensives: possible additive blood‑pressure lowering. - CNS depressants: increased sedation. - Anticholinergics: heightened anticholinergic burden. - Lithium: potential for neurotoxicity.