Mellaril
Overview
- About Mellaril
Generic name: Thioridazine hydrochloride
Why is Mellaril prescribed?
Return to topMellaril combats the crippling mental disorder known as schizophrenia (a severe loss of contact with reality). Because Mellaril has been known to cause dangerous heartbeat irregularities, it is usually prescribed only when at least two other medications have failed.
Most important fact about Mellaril
Return to topThe danger of potentially fatal cardiac irregularities increases when Mellaril is combined with any medication that prolongs a part of the heartbeat known as the QTc interval. Many of the drugs prescribed for heartbeat irregularities (including amiodarone, propafenone, propranolol, and quinidine) prolong the QTc interval and should never be combined with Mellaril. Other drugs to avoid when taking Mellaril include cimetidine, delavirdine,fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, pindolol, and ritonavir. Make sure the doctor knows you are taking Mellaril whenever a new drug is prescribed.
How should you take Mellaril?
Return to topIf you are taking Mellaril in a liquid concentrate form, you can dilute it with a liquid such as distilled water, soft tap water, or juice just before taking it.
Do not change from one brand of thioridazine to another without consulting your doctor.
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If you miss a dose...
If you take 1 dose a day and remember later in the day, take the dose immediately. If you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose and go back to your regular schedule.
If you take more than 1 dose a day and remember the forgotten dose within an hour or so after its scheduled time, take it immediately. If you don't remember until later, skip the dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Never try to "catch up" by doubling a dose.
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Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature, tightly closed, in the container the medication came in.
What side effects may occur?
Return to topSide effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Mellaril.
