Mellaril
(thioridazine)
Treats schizophrenia.
Our bottom line
Taking Mellaril (thioridazine) is one of many options to treat schizophrenia if other medicines haven't worked, but there are some side effects which can be dangerous.
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- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (thioridazine)
Upsides
- Available in generic.
- Compared to other similar medicines, Mellaril (thioridazine) is less likely to cause problems controlling your movements.
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What to expect from thioridazine, on one page
Download Fact SheetDownsides
- Mellaril (thioridazine) is only recommended for schizophrenia if other medicines haven't worked because the side effects can be very dangerous.
- You have to take Mellaril (thioridazine) numerous times a day which can make it hard to remember.
- Mellaril (thioridazine) can interfere with your heartbeat, so your doctor might have you do annual tests with your heart to make sure it's healthy.
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What to expect from thioridazine, on one page
Download Fact SheetMellaril (thioridazine) is a typical antipsychotic that lowers levels of dopamine in the brain. In schizophrenia, it's believed the brain produces too much dopamine.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (thioridazine)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
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What to expect when you take Mellaril (thioridazine) for Schizophrenia
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Problems with heartbeat
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Sleepiness
- Low white blood cells
Side effect rates for Mellaril (thioridazine)
Risks and Warnings for Mellaril (thioridazine)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › History of heartbeat problems
- › Taking medicines for depression
- › Taking beta blockers
Rarely, Mellaril (thioridazine) can cause problems with the heartbeat that can be deadly. This is more likely to happen if you've had problems with your heartbeat before, or if you're taking certain medicines for depression or beta blockers. Your doctor will check your heart to make sure it's healthy enough before you start Mellaril (thioridazine). Go to the emergency room right away if you feel dizzy, faint or notice an irregular heartbeat. Talk to your pharmacist to make sure there aren't any interactions with your other medicines and Mellaril (thioridazine).
This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.
Pharmacist Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this drug for?
This medication treats schizophrenia in people who did not respond well to treatment with other antipsychotic medications.Common concerns from people taking Mellaril (thioridazine)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?- Don't drink alcohol while taking Mellaril (thioridazine).
- You can take Mellaril (thioridazine) with or without food. Take it with food if you get an upset stomach.
- Mellaril (thioridazine) can make you feel sleepy the first few days that you take it, and you might be more likely to fall and hurt yourself. This can be worse if you drink alcohol or take narcotics for pain or other medical issues. Don't drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how Mellaril (thioridazine) affects you. Be very careful getting up if you've been sitting or lying down for a while, and brace yourself and sit down if you do feel dizzy.