Common Use

Thorazine is prescribed to treat various mental and mood disorders, such as schizophrenia, anxiety, the manic phase of manic-depressive disorder, and restlessness. It is also used before surgery, for porphyria, severe conduct and behavioral issues in children, nausea and vomiting, and severe hiccups. Additionally, it helps manage symptoms associated with tetanus. The active ingredient in Thorazine is phenothiazine, which works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain.

Dosage and Directions

Take Thorazine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Precautions

Before using Thorazine, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Provide a full list of all medications, herbal products, or dietary supplements you are taking. Let your doctor know if you have allergies to medicines or food, or if you have a history of heart problems, blood disorders, high blood pressure, liver or kidney issues, seizures, Parkinson's disease, an enlarged prostate, Reye syndrome, alcohol abuse, lung infections, asthma, glaucoma, or increased eye pressure.

Contraindications

Do not use Thorazine if you are allergic to its components or similar medications like phenothiazines. It is also contraindicated if you have bone marrow problems or are taking certain antiarrhythmic agents, such as dofetilide, astemizole, cisapride, ketolide antibiotics, macrolide antibiotics, pergolide, pimozide, terfenadine, or ziprasidone.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects of Thorazine include dizziness, agitation, enlarged pupils, nausea, stuffy nose, jitteriness, dry mouth, and drowsiness.

Severe side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or mouth)
• Changes in menstrual periods or sexual ability
• Dark urine or difficulty swallowing
• Fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, or sore throat
• Involuntary movements or spasms, muscle restlessness, or prolonged erections
• Seizures, shuffling walk, sleeplessness, or stiff muscles
• Vision changes, weakness, or yellowing of the skin or eyes

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including:

• Thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) - may increase Thorazine's side effects
• Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), hydantoins (e.g., phenytoin), or narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine) - their side effects may increase with Thorazine
• Arsenic, astemizole, beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol), certain antiarrhythmic agents (e.g., quinidine), cisapride, dofetilide, droperidol, epinephrine, haloperidol, ketolides (e.g., telithromycin), macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), pimozide, quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin), streptogramins (e.g., quinupristin), terfenadine, or ziprasidone - increased risk of severe side effects like irregular heartbeat
• Anticholinergics (e.g., atropine) - may reduce Thorazine's effectiveness
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), guanethidine, and pergolide - their effectiveness may decrease with Thorazine

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include twitching, deep sleep or loss of consciousness, seizures, tremors, restlessness, and muscle spasms. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Thorazine at room temperature, between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C), in a tightly closed container. Keep it away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We are not responsible for any inaccuracies or consequences of self-treatment.