Drug
Thiothixene
Pronounced
"thigh-oh-THICKS-een"
Uses
This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia). Thiothixene 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
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.
How to Use This Medication
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 times daily.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects such as drowsiness and shaking (tremor), your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.
Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Although you may notice some medication effects soon after starting, for some conditions it may take 2 to 3 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as severe confusion and hallucinations. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.