How should I take thioridazine?
Take thioridazine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these
instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Your doctor may want to monitor your heartbeats and obtain a blood sample before starting
and periodically during treatment with thioridazine.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Thioridazine can be taken with or without food.
Shake the suspension (Mellaril-S) well before using it.
To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid forms of thioridazine with a dropper
or a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a
dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
The liquid concentrate can be mixed with 2 to 4 ounces of water or a suitable juice. Each dose
should be mixed just prior to taking.
Do not let the liquid concentrate touch your skin or clothes.
Throw away any discolored liquid.
Do not stop taking thioridazine without first talking to your doctor. It may be several weeks
before you begin to feel better, and you may require continuous treatment for quite some time.
Store thioridazine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the liquid in a
light-resistant container.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a
double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a thioridazine overdose include uncontrollable movements, agitation, seizures,
severe dizziness or fainting, coma, very deep sleep, irregular heartbeats, and high or low body
temperature.
What should I avoid while taking thioridazine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.
Thioridazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these
activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly
to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Thioridazine may interact with other drugs that cause drowsiness, including alcohol,
antidepressants, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle
relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if thioridazine is taken with alcohol
or any of these medications. Talk to your doctor before taking thioridazine in combination with alcohol
or any other medicines.
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Thioridazine may increase the sensitivity of the skin
to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable.
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