Loxapine is a drug used to treat some mental/mood disorders, such as schizophrenia. It is an antipsychotic drug that helps to restore the balance of certain chemicals in the brain. The medication is available in tablet and liquid form under different brand names. 

Dosage

The recommended starting dose for this drug is 10 mg twice daily; the dosage may be increased over time to get the best results according to your response to treatment and to reduce the risks of side effects.  

The maximum daily dose of loxapine is 250mg, and it is best to take the drug with a full glass of water (250ml). 

Some factors are taken into consideration to determine the dosage of loxapine. These factors include age, weight, other medications, and other medical conditions the person has. So, if your doctor has prescribed your specific dosage, do not increase or reduce it without consultation, and do not recommend the drug to other people with similar symptoms. 

Do not stop taking this drug without consulting your doctor, and if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.

Side Effects of Loxapine

Common side effects of loxapine include:

• Confusion.
• Drowsiness.
• Changes to menstrual periods.
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
• Dry, itchy skin.
• New or worsening constipation.
• Nasal congestion.
• Changed interest in sexual activity.
• Headache.
• Decreased sweating.
• Enlargement of breasts (men and women).
• Dry mouth.
• Increased sensitivity of the skin to the sun.
• Weakness.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Weight changes.
• Unusual secretion of milk.
• Blurred vision.
• Hypotension.

Precautions

Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you have any drug allergies or reactions to psychotic medications and if you have a medical history of glaucoma, seizures, brain disorder, breast cancer, heart problems, liver disease, Parkinson’s disease, or blood problems. 

The drug may make you more sensitive to the sun, limit your time in the sun and use sunscreen. Loxapine may make you dizzy or drowsy, so do not drive, use machinery or do anything that needs alertness after taking it. Also, avoid alcohol when using this drug.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor you are using loxapine. In addition, the drug may make you sweat less or give you heat stroke; avoid activities that will cause your body to overheat. This medication is not safe for infants, so if you are a breastfeeding mother or in your last trimester of pregnancy, do not take the drug or consult your doctor first.