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Drug

Thioridazine

Common brand names:

Mellaril

Pronounced

"thigh-oh-RID-uh-zeen"

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia). Thioridazine belongs to a class of drugs known as antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

Warning

Thioridazine rarely has caused very serious (possibly fatal) irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation in the EKG). It should be used only in patients who have not shown improvement with at least 2 other antipsychotic medications or who cannot tolerate other antipsychotic medications. This medication should not be used with other medications that can also cause a slow or irregular heartbeat. (See also Drug Interactions.)

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.

Other Uses

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used for short periods of time for very severe depression when the patient is also anxious.

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 4 times a day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Once your condition improves and you are better for a while, your doctor may work with you to reduce your regular dose. This may be done over time. Do not stop your medication or lower your dose without talking with your doctor first. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is stopped abruptly. Your dose may need to be gradually reduced.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

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RxAnswers™ is a copyrighted combined product from TraceGains and First DataBank, Inc.

Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.