Loxitane (Loxapine)

Drug Uses

This medication is used to treat symptoms of certain types of mental conditions. It acts in the brain to block chemicals involved with nerve sensitivity and improves concentration and self control.

How Taken

Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs, unless directed otherwise by your doctor. The liquid concentrate must be measured carefully and diluted with 4 ounces or more of water, milk, juice, or carbonated beverage. It can be mixed into applesauce or pudding. Do not dilute with coffee, tea, or colas - the medication may lose effectiveness. Take immediately after diluting. Take this medication as prescribed. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without consulting your doctor.

Some conditions may worsen if the medication is suddenly stopped. It may take up to two weeks for the full effects of this medication to be noticed.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Loxitane is a tricyclic antipsychotic. Loxitane is an anti psychotic drug of intermediate-potency. Used in the treatment of disorganized and psychotic thinking. Also used to help treat false perceptions ( e.g. hallucinations or delusions ).

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid freezing.

Warnings/Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:

• epilepsy,
• Parkinson's disease,
• depression,
• heart disease,
• glaucoma,
• prostate trouble or difficulty urinating,
• alcohol and substance abuse history.

Use caution performing tasks that require alertness. This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear a sunscreen and protective clothing if needed. Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medication can reduce sweating making you more susceptible to heat stroke.

Avoid strenuous work or exercise in hot weather. The oral concentrate form can cause redness and irritation of the skin. Be careful not to spill it on your skin or clothing. Loxitane should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if loxitane is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects

May cause drowsiness, dizziness or blurred vision. Other side effects include stomach upset, loss of appetite, headache, drooling, dry mouth, sleep disturbances or restlessness. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

Unlikely but notify your doctor promptly if you develop:

• chest pain,
• a rapid heart rate,
• difficult or fast breathing,
• aching muscles and joints,
• tremors,
• rash,
• involuntary movements (such as chewing, puckering or a twitching tongue).

If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

More Information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.

If you will be taking this medicine for an extended period of time, be sure to obtain necessary refills before your supply runs out.