Questions and Answers
What should be avoided when administering Thioridazine (Mellaril)?
What is the drug classification of Thioridazine?
Antipsychotic, Phenothiazine
What is Thioridazine primarily used to treat?
Refractory schizophrenia
Which of the following are side effects of Thioridazine?
Signup and view all the answers
Match the following nursing responsibilities for Thioridazine.
Signup and view all the answers
What action does Thioridazine perform in the CNS?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following conditions is Thioridazine contraindicated for?
Signup and view all the answers
What precautions should be taken with Thioridazine in debilitated clients?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a common drug interaction with Thioridazine?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Thioridazine (Mellaril) Overview
- Thioridazine is an antipsychotic medication classified as a phenothiazine.
- It is indicated for the treatment of refractory schizophrenia and is considered a second-line treatment after atypical antipsychotics.
Key Pharmacological Information
- Route of administration is oral (PO) with a half-life (T1/2) of 21-24 hours.
- Over 90% protein binding; highly metabolized by the liver and gastrointestinal mucosa.
- Pregnancy Category C.
Side Effects
- Significant risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, QT prolongation, agranulocytosis, sedation, and extrapyramidal reactions.
- Other adverse effects include blurred vision, lens opacities, pigmentary retinopathy, hypotension, and urinary retention among others.
- Long-term use may lead to tardive dyskinesia, weight gain, and metabolic disturbances.
Nursing Responsibilities
- Avoid use in pediatric populations.
- Regular ECG monitoring is essential due to the risk of dysrhythmias, particularly Torsades de Pointes.
- Conduct eye examinations and monitor vital signs, CBC, liver function tests, weight, mood, and behavior.
Contraindications
- Not recommended for individuals with hypersensitivity, angle-closure glaucoma, severe liver or cardiovascular diseases, and alcohol intolerance.
- Caution with patients having a QT interval over 450 milliseconds, hypokalemia, and those taking fluvoxamine or other CYP450 2D6 inhibitors.
Cautions
- Use with caution in debilitated individuals, glaucoma patients, and those with urinary retention or diabetes.
- Not safe for pregnant clients or those at risk for dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
Drug Interactions
- Avoid concurrent use with drugs that inhibit CYP450 2D6 or prolong the QT interval.
- Diuretics may increase arrhythmia risk; other antihypertensives and alcohol may enhance hypotensive effects.
- CNS depressants can lead to additive sedative effects.
- Lithium may have its therapeutic levels masked by Thioridazine, increasing the risk of toxicity.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore key concepts related to Thioridazine (Mellaril) through these flashcards. This resource covers definitions, drug classifications, and indications for use, particularly focusing on its application in treating refractory schizophrenia. Perfect for students and professionals in the field of pharmacology.
