Common Use

Its active component is thioridazine, and it belongs to a group of medicines called phenothiazines. It is used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. This medication changes the actions of chemicals in the brain.

Dosage and Directions

Take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Follow these guidelines:

• Take with or without food.
• Take with food if stomach upset occurs.
• Continue taking the medicine even if you feel well.

Precautions

Use this medicine with caution:

• May cause dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
• Avoid situations where injury could occur due to fainting.
• Contact your doctor if chest pain occurs or worsens.
• Inform your doctor before any surgery if using Mellaril.
• Elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Do not use this medication if you have:

• Allergy to thioridazine.
• Decreased level of consciousness.
• Severe high or low blood pressure.
• Low potassium levels.
• Abnormal ECG or heart problems (e.g., irregular heartbeat).
• Reduced P-450 2D6 isozyme levels.

Also avoid if taking:

• Antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone, quinidine).
• Cisapride, dofetilide, or H1 antagonists (e.g., terfenadine).
• SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine).
• Other medications affecting heartbeat.

Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Bizarre dreams
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Drowsiness, dizziness
• Dry mouth, stuffy nose
• Vomiting, loss of appetite

Severe Side Effects

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing).
• Irregular heartbeat, chest pain.
• Confusion, seizures, fainting.
• Muscle spasms, vision changes.
• Liver problems (yellowing skin, dark urine).

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor if taking:

• Anticholinergics (e.g., atropine).
• Antiarrhythmics or beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol).
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin).
• SSRIs or SNRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, duloxetine).

These may increase risks of severe side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose:

• Take it as soon as possible.
• If near the next dose, skip the missed dose.
• Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Symptoms include:

• Severe drowsiness or unconsciousness.
• Irregular heartbeat, tremors.
• Muscle spasms, seizures.

Storage

Store the medication properly:

• At room temperature (59-86°F or 15-30°C).
• Keep in a tightly closed container.
• Protect from heat, moisture, and light.
• Keep away from children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information does not cover all possible directions, interactions, or precautions. Consult your healthcare provider before use. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat. We are not liable for any damages resulting from the use of this information.