How does it work?

Loxapine is an antipsychotic medicine which is sometimes described as a 'major tranquilliser'. It acts by blocking a variety of receptors in the brain, particularly dopamine receptors. Dopamine is involved in transmitting signals between brain cells. When there is an excess amount of dopamine in the brain it causes over-stimulation of dopamine receptors. These receptors normally act to modify behaviour and over-stimulation may result in psychotic illness. Loxapine blocks these receptors and stops them becoming over-stimulated, thereby helping to control psychotic illness.

What is it used for?

Psychotic illness

Warning!

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Do not drink alcohol whilst taking this medicine.

It is recommended that you receive regular eye examinations while you taking this medicine, as it can sometimes cause eye problems. Consult your doctor if you experience any disturbances in your vision while taking this medicine.

Use with caution in

Breastfeeding

Disease involving the heart and blood vessels

Disease of the blood vessels in and around the brain (cerebrovascular disease)

Enlarged prostate gland

Epilepsy

Glaucoma

People with conditions that increase the risk of epilepsy or convulsions, eg brain damage

Pregnancy

Not to be used in

Children

Reduced awareness, slow reactions or drowsiness due to medicines or illness that reduce activity in the central nervous system

Unresponsive unconscious states (comatose states)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Seek medical advice from your doctor before using this medicine during breastfeeding.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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