loxapine

People over the age of 65 who also have dementia sometimes have some schizophrenia-like symptoms, such as hallucinations. Older people with dementia-related psychosis have a higher risk of death if they take medications like loxapine. Because of this risk, loxapine shouldn't be used in people 65 years and older with dementia-related psychosis. Let your provider know if you or your loved one has dementia before starting loxapine.

Loxapine, like all antipsychotics, can cause uncontrollable movements (tardive dyskinesia) involving your face, tongue, and other body parts. Symptoms include shaking, muscle stiffness, or feeling like you can't sit still. This condition might go away once you stop the medication, but there's a chance it can become permanent. The risk is greatest if you've been taking loxapine for a long time or have been taking high doses, but it can also occur at any point during treatment or at any dose. Tell your provider right away if you notice any unusual movements.

Loxapine can cause a rare but life-threatening condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Symptoms of NMS include high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. If you notice any of these symptoms, get medical help right away.

Loxapine can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, sleepiness, and problems with balance. Dizziness, falls, and fainting can happen due to a sudden drop in blood pressure when you change positions, such as going from sitting to standing. To avoid falling, change positions slowly until your body is used to the medication.

Loxapine can lower the amount of white blood cells (WBCs) in your body. WBCs help your body fight off infections and diseases. Having fewer WBCs means you're more likely to get sick. If you notice a fever or that you're getting sick more easily, let your provider know right away. Blood tests might be done before you start loxapine and during the first few months of taking this medication to make sure that you have a healthy amount of white blood cells. If the amount of white blood cells in your body is too low, you'll need to stop the medication.

Loxapine can make you more likely to have seizures, especially if you have a history of seizures or have conditions that make it easier to have a seizure. Let your provider know if you've had seizures in the past before starting the medication, so your provider can monitor you more closely.

Loxapine can cause vision changes, especially if it's taken for a long time. Let your provider know right away if you notice any changes in your vision.