Thioridazine: What It Is, How to Take It, and What to Watch For

Thioridazine is an older antipsychotic that doctors prescribe mainly for schizophrenia when newer drugs aren’t suitable. It belongs to the phenothiazine class, which means it blocks certain brain chemicals to calm hallucinations and severe mood swings.

Even though it’s not the first choice today, many patients still rely on it because it can work well for specific symptoms. If you’ve been offered thiodrazine or you’re just curious, this guide walks you through the basics – from dosage tips to side‑effects you need to know.

Typical Dosage and How to Use It

Doctors usually start adults at a low dose, often 50 mg to 100 mg taken once or twice daily. The goal is to find the smallest amount that controls symptoms without causing too many side effects. Some people may end up on 200 mg a day, but most stay below that.

Take thioridazine with food or a full glass of water to lessen stomach upset. Do not crush or chew the tablets unless your doctor says it’s okay – the coating helps the drug release slowly.

Never stop the medication abruptly. If you need to quit, your doctor will taper you down over several weeks to avoid withdrawal or a sudden return of symptoms.

Key Side Effects & Safety Tips

Like any drug that touches the brain, thioridazine has a list of possible side effects. The most common ones are:

• Drowsiness or feeling “foggy.”
• Dry mouth and constipation.
• Blurred vision.
• Weight gain.

More serious reactions can happen, though they’re rarer. Watch out for a fast heartbeat, low blood pressure when you stand up, or an uncontrolled muscle movement called tardive dyskinesia. If you notice any of these, call your doctor right away.

Thioridazine can also affect the heart’s rhythm, especially in people with existing heart issues. That’s why many doctors order an ECG before starting treatment and occasionally during therapy.

Other drugs can interact badly with thioridazine. Tell your pharmacist about any other prescriptions, over‑the‑counter meds, or herbal supplements you’re taking. Antidepressants, anti‑nausea pills, and some antibiotics are known culprits.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss risks with their doctor because the drug can pass to the baby. If you’re a senior, dose adjustments may be needed because kidney and liver function often slow down with age.

For most people, side effects lessen after a few weeks as the body gets used to the medication. If they linger or become unbearable, ask your doctor about switching to a newer antipsychotic.

Finally, keep track of how you feel. A simple daily journal – noting mood, energy, any weird sensations – helps your doctor fine‑tune the treatment.

Thioridazine isn’t the newest option on the market, but it still has a role when other drugs don’t fit. Knowing the right dose, staying alert for side effects, and checking with your healthcare team will make the experience as smooth as possible.