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Home > Drug Category > Psychiatric Medication > Loxitane and Equivalent

Loxitane (Loxapine succinate) Information

Loxitane, which contains the active ingredient loxapine, is an antipsychotic medication traditionally used to treat schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. It helps reduce hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and agitation, while supporting clearer thought processes and improved daily functioning. The drug is available as an oral tablet for routine maintenance treatment. It can also be given as an intramuscular injection for faster control of severe agitation or acute psychotic symptoms. The injection is typically used in a hospital or supervised setting, while tablets are used for ongoing treatment once symptoms stabilize.

Loxapine works by restoring balance to certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, that influence perception, mood, and behavior. It blocks specific receptors that are overactive during psychotic episodes, which helps reduce symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, and severe agitation. Although it is structurally related to tricyclic antidepressants, its therapeutic effect comes primarily from its dopamine-blocking activity. Because it affects multiple neurotransmitter systems, it can also cause sedation and has the potential for movement-related side effects, so it must be used with careful monitoring.

Loxitane Side Effects

Loxitane is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur. Commonly reported effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, increased heart rate, and mild restlessness. Some individuals may also experience stiffness, tremors, or slowed movements due to the medication’s effects on dopamine pathways. Weight gain and changes in sleep patterns can also occur, particularly with long-term treatment.

More serious side effects can occur, leading to significant monitoring protocols. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention:
• High fever or signs of infection, especially if white blood cell counts become low
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, sweating, fast heartbeat
• Seizures
• Serious heart rhythm problems or fainting spells
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing
• Severe movement disorders, including acute dystonia (painful muscle spasms), akathisia (intense restlessness), or Parkinsonism
• Sudden mood or behavior changes, including worsening of psychiatric symptoms
• Tardive Dyskinesia (TD): involuntary movements of the tongue, lips, or limbs

Loxitane Precautions

Do not use loxitane if you are allergic to loxapine or any component of the formulation. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history. People with heart disease, low blood pressure, seizure disorders, respiratory problems, liver disease, glaucoma, urinary retention, or a history of movement disorders may require special caution. The injection form should not be used in individuals with severe breathing problems, acute asthma, or recent respiratory distress.

Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, sedatives, opioids, mood stabilizers, seizure medications, antibiotics, and drugs that affect heart rhythm. Many of these can interact with loxapine and increase the risk of side effects such as excessive sedation, movement disorders, or abnormal heart rhythms. Avoid alcohol because it significantly increases drowsiness and can impair judgment or breathing. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Antipsychotics used during the final trimester may cause symptoms in newborns such as breathing difficulties, muscle stiffness, or feeding problems. Loxapine passes into breast milk. Your doctor will only administer this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Use this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Loxitane is available as a tablet and injection. Loxitane tablets are taken by mouth, usually one to three times daily, depending on the prescribed regimen. Your doctor may start with a low dose and gradually increase it based on your response. Take the tablets consistently at the same time each day. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly unless directed by your doctor, as abrupt changes can cause symptom relapse or withdrawal-like effects.

Loxitane injection is given intramuscularly by a doctor, typically for rapid control of acute agitation or severe psychotic symptoms. Because the injection acts quickly, it may cause more pronounced drowsiness, low blood pressure, or muscle stiffness immediately after administration. After receiving an injection, your doctor will monitor you for sedation, blood pressure changes, and any sudden movement reactions. Store tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light, and keep all forms of this medication out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Loxitane?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Loxitane.