What is Mellaril?

Mellaril (Thioridazine) is an anti-psychotic medication in a group of drugs called phenothiazines (FEEN-oh-THYE-a-zeens). It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain. Thioridazine is used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Thioridazine is usually given after other medications have been tried without successful treatment of schizophrenia. Thioridazine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

How should I take thioridazine?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.
Your heart may need to be checked using an electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG) before you start taking thioridazine, or whenever your dose is changed. An ECG measures electrical activity of the heart. This will help your doctor determine whether the medication is causing any harmful effects. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor while you are taking thioridazine. Store thioridazine at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include dry mouth, constipation, bloating or stomach cramps, extreme dizziness, dry skin, blurred vision, decreased urination, uncontrollable muscle movements, confusion, agitation, feeling hot or cold, fast or pounding heartbeat, fainting, slow heart rate, weak or shallow breathing, and seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking Mellaril?

Thioridazine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of thioridazine. Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Thioridazine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, and a sunburn may result. Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) and protective clothing if you must be outdoors.