Thiothixene vs. Risperdal for Schizophrenia: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Thiothixene (Navane) and risperidone (Risperdal) are both used to treat schizophrenia, but they belong to different classes of antipsychotics. Thiothixene is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic, while risperidone is a second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic. Thiothixene works by lowering dopamine levels in the brain, whereas risperidone balances both dopamine and serotonin levels. Thiothixene is more likely to cause uncontrolled muscle movements, while risperidone has a higher risk of weight gain and changes in blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Risperidone can also be used to treat bipolar disorder and irritability associated with autism, making it more versatile than thiothixene. Both medications are available in generic forms and should not be mixed with alcohol.

Thiothixene

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Risperidone

(Risperdal)

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Summary for Thiothixene

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.

Indications for Thiothixene

Schizophrenia in people ages 12 years and older

Pros and Cons for Thiothixene

Pros

Taken by mouth
Can be taken by children as young as 12 years old
Dose can be adjusted based on your response

Cons

Might need to take up to 3 times a day
Can cause low white blood cell counts so might need to have regular blood tests done
More likely to cause movement-related problems than atypical antipsychotics

Common Side Effects for Thiothixene

Warnings for Thiothixene

Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
Difficulty controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)
Abnormal and prolonged muscle contractions (dystonia)
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
Seizures
Drowsiness and sleepiness
Low white blood cell count
Vision changes
High prolactin levels

Summary for Risperdal

Prescription only

Risperidone (Risperdal) is an atypical antipsychotic that's used to improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors in people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism. It's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Common side effects of risperidone (Risperdal) include sleepiness, movement problems, and weight gain. Risperidone (Risperdal) can interact with some medications, such as certain antidepressants or blood pressure medications. Taking these medications together can make certain side effects worse.

Indications for Risperdal

Schizophrenia - people ages 13 years and older
Manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder - people ages 10 years and older
Irritability associated with autism - children ages 5 to 17 years old

Pros and Cons for Risperdal

Pros

Taken by mouth
Available as a pill, dissolving tablet, and liquid
Can be used in both adults and children
Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Higher risk of sexual problems, compared to other atypical antipsychotics
Can cause weight gain
Can cause changes to sleep or movement problems
Shouldn't be mixed with alcohol

Common Side Effects for Risperdal

Adults:

Muscle stiffness, muscle tightening, difficulty with movement (25%)
Extreme sleepiness (11%)
Restlessness, trouble remaining still (9%)
Tremor (6%)
Dizziness (6%)
Nausea (5%)
Repetitive movements, abnormal postures (5%)

Children:

Extreme sleepiness (up to 56%)
Dizziness (up to 16%)
Nausea or vomiting (up to 16%)
Stomach pain (up to 16%)
Muscle stiffness, muscle tightening, difficulty with movement (up to 12%)
Heartburn (up to 10%)
Sore throat (up to 10%)

Warnings for Risperdal

Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Difficulty controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)
Weight gain, higher blood sugar, and higher cholesterol levels
High prolactin levels
Changes in blood pressure and higher risk of falls
Risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
Seizures
Prolonged and painful erection
Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only