Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Loxapine
Thioridazine
Loxapine
Thioridazine
Summary of Loxapine vs. Thioridazine
Summary for First-generation (typical) antipsychotic
Prescription only
Loxapine is a typical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia. Loxapine is taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. It can cause more movement-related side effects compared with atypical antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole (Abilify). It used to be sold under the brand name Loxitane, which is no longer available. Oral loxapine is now only available as generic capsules.
Summary for First-generation (typical) antipsychotic
Prescription only
Thioridazine, previously known under the brand name Mellaril, treats adults and children with schizophrenia. This first-generation antipsychotic, or also called typical antipsychotic, is typically used only when other antipsychotic medications haven't worked well. Thioridazine tablets are taken by mouth a few times throughout the day. The dosage depends on how well the medication is helping with your symptoms and whether you're having side effects like dry mouth, sleepiness, and nausea. Thioridazine can also cause a serious heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation, so it's not a first-choice option.
Indications of Loxapine vs. Thioridazine
Indications for
•Schizophrenia
Indications for
•Schizophrenia when other antipsychotic medications haven't worked well or have caused bothersome side effects
Pros and Cons of Loxapine vs. Thioridazine
Pros and Const for First-generation (typical) antipsychotic
Pros
•A good option if other schizophrenia medications haven't worked or have caused bothersome side effects
•Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
•Available as a lower-cost generic medication
Cons
•More likely to cause trouble controlling movements compared to other treatment options
•Can raise your heart rate and lower your blood pressure
•Risk of developing abnormal muscle movements that might not go away after you stop taking loxapine
Pros and Const for First-generation (typical) antipsychotic