Levosulpiride : Frequently Asked Questions Answered
What is Levosulpiride?
Levosulpiride is an atypical antipsychotic. It treats psychiatric conditions, depression, schizophrenia, vertigo, and hallucinations. However, it can also treat digestive issues like GERD, IBS, indigestion, and incessant heartburn. Doctors also prescribe it for preventing premature ejaculation.
It is sold under the brand name Neopard. It is a substituted benzamide antipsychotic and impedes dopamine (D₂) activity on the central and peripheral nervous systems.
What are the uses of Levosulpiride?
Levosulpiride works by selectively inhibiting the action of dopamine D₂ receptors. It can elevate one’s mood. Hence, it is used in treating psychoses like:
- Schizophrenia – the patient loses touch with reality and experiences hallucinations, delusions, changes in thought patterns and behavior
- Depression – a constant feeling of lowness and losing interest in activities
- Vertigo
It can also treat premature ejaculation in men.
Levosulpiride is also a prokinetic agent. It can increase acetylcholine levels in the body. This combined action makes it effective in treating:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – acid from the stomach moves back into the esophagus
- Abdominal discomfort – tenderness, pain, loss of appetite, indigestion (dyspepsia), heartburn, constipation, loose motions, etc.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Unexplained headaches, especially after meals
- Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or other cancer treatment