Mesoridazine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Safe Interactions

Summary of Key Points

Mesoridazine is an antipsychotic medication used to manage mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, and bipolar disorder. It works by helping to balance certain chemicals in the brain, which can improve mood, behavior, and thought processes. Mesoridazine is typically prescribed when other treatments have not been successful. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose, and consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for personalized advice.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Serentil (Mesoridazine)

The ‘generic name’ refers to the active ingredient in the medication, listed in parentheses. It is the non-branded version, which is often available at a lower cost than the brand-name product.

Pharmacologic Category

Phenothiazine Antipsychotic

Mesoridazine belongs to the phenothiazine class of antipsychotic medications, which includes drugs like chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, and thioridazine. These medications help manage mental health conditions by influencing neurotransmitters in the brain.

Mesoridazine Dosage

Mesoridazine is prescribed for a variety of mental health conditions. The dosage and frequency will depend on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and never adjust your dose without consulting them first. If you have any concerns, consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for tailored guidance.

Mesoridazine for Schizophrenia Treatment

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Psychotic Disorders

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Bipolar Disorder

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Agitation

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Short-term or as needed, depending on the severity of symptoms.

Delusional Disorder

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Schizoaffective Disorder

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Anxiety Disorders

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Short-term or as needed, depending on the severity of symptoms.

Depression

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Tourette Syndrome

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Maintenance Dose: 100 mg to 400 mg daily, divided into multiple doses.

Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your healthcare provider.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tablets: 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

Oral Solution: 25 mg/5 mL

How to Take Mesoridazine Safely

Take Mesoridazine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your provider’s instructions, and if you have any questions, schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers.

Contraindications for Mesoridazine

A contraindication is a specific condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. If you have any of the conditions listed below, inform your healthcare provider before starting Mesoridazine.

Severe heart problems: Mesoridazine can affect the heart’s electrical activity, potentially leading to serious arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). If you have a history of heart disease, including long QT syndrome, Mesoridazine may not be safe for you.

Uncontrolled low blood pressure (hypotension): Mesoridazine can lower blood pressure, so it is not recommended for individuals with low blood pressure, as it could lead to dizziness, fainting, or other complications.

Severe liver disease: The liver is responsible for breaking down Mesoridazine. If your liver is not functioning properly, the medication may build up in your body, increasing the risk of side effects.

Allergic reaction to Mesoridazine or similar medications: If you have had an allergic reaction to Mesoridazine or other antipsychotic medications, you should not take this drug, as it could cause a serious allergic response.

Severe central nervous system depression: If you are experiencing extreme drowsiness or reduced consciousness due to other medications or medical conditions, Mesoridazine could worsen these symptoms.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Mesoridazine can interact with other medications, potentially increasing side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Common Mesoridazine interactions include:

1. Antiarrhythmic drugs: Medications like amiodarone (Pacerone) or quinidine (Quinidex) can heighten the risk of heart rhythm disturbances when combined with Mesoridazine.
2. Antidepressants: Drugs such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft) may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome or heart rhythm complications when taken with Mesoridazine.
3. Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics, like erythromycin (Ery-Tab) or clarithromycin (Biaxin), can raise the risk of heart rhythm issues when used alongside Mesoridazine.
4. Antifungal medications: Drugs like ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) may also increase the risk of heart rhythm problems when combined with Mesoridazine.
5. Other antipsychotics: Medications such as haloperidol (Haldol) or thioridazine (Mellaril) may elevate the risk of side effects when taken with Mesoridazine.

Mesoridazine in Pregnancy

Is it Safe to Take Mesoridazine During Pregnancy?

Mesoridazine is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Limited research on Mesoridazine use in pregnant women suggests that antipsychotic medications may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly when taken during the first trimester. Additionally, using Mesoridazine in the third trimester may cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns, such as agitation, feeding difficulties, and breathing problems. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers can help you weigh the risks and benefits of continuing Mesoridazine during pregnancy.

Mesoridazine While Breastfeeding

Is it Safe to Take Mesoridazine While Breastfeeding?

Mesoridazine is not recommended while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and may affect your baby. Potential side effects in infants include drowsiness, irritability, and feeding difficulties. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult your healthcare provider about safer alternatives. Our telemedicine providers are available to discuss your options and help you make an informed decision.

Estimated Cost of Mesoridazine Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Mesoridazine without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. With a GoodRx coupon, the cost typically ranges from $50 to $100 for a 30-day supply. Check with your local pharmacy for the most accurate pricing, and consider using a coupon to help reduce the cost.

Possible Alternatives to Mesoridazine

If Mesoridazine isn’t suitable for you, there are alternative treatments available for the conditions it’s commonly prescribed for. It’s important to discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers can help you explore these options.

1. Schizophrenia: Other antipsychotics like risperidone (Risperdal) or aripiprazole (Abilify) may be considered. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle changes, such as stress management and regular exercise, can also help manage symptoms.
2. Psychotic disorders: Alternatives include olanzapine (Zyprexa) or quetiapine (Seroquel). Psychotherapy and support groups may also be beneficial.
3. Bipolar disorder: Mood stabilizers like lithium or valproate (Depakote) are commonly used. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding alcohol can also help manage symptoms.
4. Agitation: Benzodiazepines like lorazepam (Ativan) or non-medication approaches such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques may be effective.
5. Delusional disorder: Antipsychotics like haloperidol (Haldol) or psychotherapy may be considered as alternatives.
6. Schizoaffective disorder: A combination of antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, such as paliperidone (Invega) or lithium, may be used. Psychotherapy can also be helpful.
7. Anxiety disorders: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like escitalopram (Lexapro) or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are common alternatives.
8. Depression: SSRIs such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine (Effexor) are often prescribed. Regular exercise and talk therapy can also be beneficial.
9. Tourette syndrome: Medications like clonidine (Catapres) or behavioral therapy may be considered as alternatives.
10. Autism spectrum disorder: Behavioral therapies, speech therapy, and medications like risperidone (Risperdal) for irritability may be used as alternatives.

Recent Updates on Mesoridazine Research

Recent research on Mesoridazine medication has focused on its safety profile, particularly its effects on heart rhythm. Studies show that Mesoridazine can prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia called torsades de pointes. As a result, Mesoridazine is typically reserved for patients who haven’t responded to other antipsychotic medications. Ongoing research is exploring the development of safer antipsychotic medications with fewer cardiovascular side effects. If you have concerns about the safety of Mesoridazine, our telemedicine providers can help you evaluate your treatment options and discuss the latest research findings.

James Kingsley

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