Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Perphenazine and thiothixene are both first-generation antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia. Perphenazine is also approved for treating severe nausea and vomiting, while thiothixene is not. Both are available as low-cost generics and need to be taken multiple times a day. Perphenazine can cause many side effects, including weight gain and drowsiness. Thiothixene, on the other hand, is less likely to cause dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision but is more likely to cause uncontrolled muscle movements. However, both medications can cause serious side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome and tardive dyskinesia. They should also be used with caution in older adults with dementia-related psychosis due to a higher risk of death.
Perphenazine
Thiothixene
Perphenazine
Thiothixene
Summary of Perphenazine vs. Thiothixene
Summary for First generation (typical) antipsychotic
Prescription only
Perphenazine is a typical antipsychotic. It's used to treat schizophrenia, as well as severe nausea and vomiting in adults. Perphenazine comes as tablets that are taken by mouth, typically up to 3 to 4 times per day, depending on the condition. Side effects of this medication include sleepiness, insomnia, and changes in body weight (both weight gain and loss); drinking alcohol can worsen certain side effects. Brand name Trilafon has been discontinued; perphenazine is only available as a generic medication.
Summary for First-generation (typical) antipsychotic
Prescription only
Thiothixene is used to treat schizophrenia in people ages 12 years and older. It belongs to a drug class known as typical antipsychotics. This medication comes as a oral capsule and it's typically taken 2-3 times a day. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness, restlessness, and uncontrolled body movement. Thiothixene is only available as a generic medication. Brand name Navane has been discontinued.