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Loxapine vs. Thioridazine

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.

• Schizophrenia

• Drowsiness
• Extrapyramidal symptoms (movement problems, such as shakiness, stiffness, excess saliva, and loss of facial expression)
• Restless muscles (akathisia)

• Higher risk of death in older adults
• Uncontrollable body movements (tardive dyskinesia)
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Falls
• Low white blood cell count
• Seizures
• Vision changes
• High prolactin levels

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.

• Schizophrenia when other antipsychotic medications haven't worked well or have caused bothersome side effects

• Sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Blurry vision
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

• Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
• Higher risk of death in older people with dementia-related psychosis
• Difficulty controlling body movements
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
• Higher risk of falls
• Lower white blood cell count (leading to possible risk for infection)
• Possible high prolactin levels
• Harm to an unborn baby