Thioridazine Side Effects

Thioridazine is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of various mood and mental conditions, such as schizophrenia. The medicine works to assist individuals by allowing them to think more clearly, and it reduces their anxiety. It is classified as a phenothiazine. As with any type of medicine, there are possible side effects of taking thioridazine.

Common Side Effects

• There are several common side effects that could occur due to taking thioridazine. These side effects are generally not considered to be harmful, because they usually go away once the body adjusts to the medication. Should the side effects get worse or persist, however, it might be necessary to seek medical attention. These side effects include appetite loss, vomiting, agitation, strange dreams, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, constipation, diarrhea and stuffy nose.

Serious Side Effects

• Serious side effects are also possible with thioridazine. In situations of serious side effects, it is vital to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible. Some potentially dangerous side effects are abnormal mental or mood changes; changes in vision; weakness of the legs or the arms; slow, rapid or irregular heartbeat; involuntary spasms or movements of the tongue, mouth, jaw, face, legs, or arms; difficulty urinating; stomach ache; swelling of the feet or hands; insomnia; extreme or lingering dizziness; passing out; drooling; darker colored urine; problems swallowing; changes in sexual ability; menstrual period changes; chills; sore throat; fever; restlessness of the muscles; sore gums or mouth; shuffling walk; abnormal movements of the eyes; inability to move the eyes; extreme constipation; hyperactivity; confusion; restlessness; seizures; and chest ache.

Allergic Reactions

• Allergic reactions are also serious side effects of thioridazine. In situations of allergic reaction, it is crucial to get immediate medical assistance. Some signs are chest tightness; swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue and face; difficulty breathing; skin rash; and breaking out into hives.

Caution

• Many medicines should not be taken with thioridazine, because they pose the risk of leading to severe health issues. It is important to inform your doctor of any and all medications that you are taking, especially cancer medicines, antibiotics, blood pressure medicines, migraine medicine, narcotic pain relievers, several HIV/AIDS medicines, antimalarial drugs, heart rhythm medicines, antidepressants, anti-psychotic medicines and medicines for the management of vomiting and nausea.

Overdose

• Anyone who thinks they might have overdosed on thioridazine should seek emergency medical care as soon as possible. Some symptoms of overdose are feeling cold or hot, confusion, disorientation, slow heart rate, agitation, severe dizziness, bloating, stomach cramps, passing out, constipation, dry mouth, dry skin, urinating less frequently, pounding or rapid heartbeat, convulsions, shallow or weak breathing, uncontrollable movements of the muscles and blurry vision.