Thioridazine
Uses of Thioridazine
Thioridazine is primarily used for the management of schizophrenia and psychotic disorders. It belongs to the phenothiazine antipsychotics class of medicines.
In some cases, Thioridazine may also be prescribed for off-label uses such as severe behavioural problems in children, depression with psychotic features, or generalised anxiety disorder.
Side effects of Thioridazine
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Weight gain
How Thioridazine works
Thioridazine is a phenothiazine antipsychotic.
It primarily works by blocking D1 and D2 dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps reduce the overactivity of dopamine often seen in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. This action helps manage symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. Additionally, Thioridazine interacts with other brain receptors, including serotonin 5-HT2 and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, which aids in calming the patient and reducing anxiety. It also has anticholinergic effects by blocking muscarinic M1 receptors, which further contributes to its calming effects.
Certified content
Written By
Doctor of Medicine
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage forms available
Thioridazine can be taken orally (tablets and concentrate solution).
Age and dose restrictions
Thioridazine is meant for adults and children older than 2 years.
Contraindications
Thioridazine is contraindicated in patients with severe central nervous system depression, and blood dyscrasias like agranulocytosis. It should be avoided or used with extreme caution in patients with Parkinson's disease, narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, and severe liver or cardiovascular disease.
Other medications to avoid
Thioridazine may interact with medicines that prolong QT interval (e.g., quinidine, procainamide, amiodarone), CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine) and CNS depressants (e.g., opioids, barbiturates, benzodiazepines).
Overdose and missed dose
Overdose of Thioridazine may cause severe drowsiness or coma, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory depression. If any of these symptoms are observed, immediately consult your doctor.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
Management of side effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
For constipation, increasing your intake of water and dietary fibre may provide relief.
If you experience dry mouth, frequent sips of water may help to alleviate this side effect.
Use in driving and operating machinery
Thioridazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. It is recommended to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Use in pregnancy and lactation
This medicine should be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding only when recommended by your doctor. Consult your doctor before using Thioridazine during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution in other conditions
Patients with pre-existing heart disease should use Thioridazine cautiously, as it can cause cardiac arrhythmias.
Also, patients with a history of seizures should exercise caution while taking this medication, as it may lower the seizure threshold.
Special dietary and lifestyle recommendations
Limit your intake of caffeine and sugar as these can potentially exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Regular sleep patterns can contribute to better mental health management.
Frequently asked questions
Does Thioridazine cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is a common side effect of Thioridazine due to changes in metabolism or eating habits. If you notice a significant weight change while taking Thioridazine, it is recommended to consult your doctor.
Is Thioridazine addictive?
Thioridazine is not known to cause physical or psychological addiction, but it should be taken as prescribed and not stopped abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Is Thioridazine safe for long-term use?
A doctor should monitor long-term use of Thioridazine, as tolerance or side effects may require dose adjustments or discontinuation.
Does Thioridazine affect mood or emotions?
Thioridazine may cause certain changes in mood or emotions as side effects. If you experience any unusual changes in your mood or emotions while taking this medicine, inform your doctor promptly.
Is there any natural alternative to Thioridazine?
Currently, there are no natural alternatives that match the effectiveness of Thioridazine for managing schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Always consult your doctor before attempting to switch to a different medication or treatment method.
Can I take Thioridazine if I have an allergy to other phenothiazines?
Thioridazine belongs to the class of medicines known as phenothiazines. If you have had allergic reactions to other phenothiazine medications in the past, you should inform your doctor as you may also be allergic to Thioridazine.
What happens if I suddenly stop taking Thioridazine?
Abruptly stopping Thioridazine or any antipsychotic may cause withdrawal symptoms or a return of symptoms. Always consult your doctor before stopping or changing your medication.
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