Schizophrenia is one of the mental illnesses with the most variability in symptoms and degrees of condition that exist. Therefore, the variety of drugs to treat it must also be very wide.
Thiothixene is an antipsychotic drug traditional used, almost exclusively, for the treatment of schizophrenia. Throughout this article we will talk about its uses and side effects, as well as the precautions that patients who consume it should take.
Thiotixene is a neuroleptic drug from the family of typical antipsychotics. Popularly known under the trade name Navane thiothixenes act by blocking dopamine D2 receptors.
Specifically, the action of thiothixene focuses on blocking dopamine receptors at the level of the cortico-meso-limbic pathway. This obstruction of dopamine receptors alters its levels, transforming human behavior. Specifically, thiothixene prevents overstimulation of the person and facilitates the regulation of certain mental illnesses classified as psychotic.
In what disorders is it used?
Thiothixene is used, almost exclusively, to treat symptoms related to a series of mental and psychiatric conditions. like schizophrenia
This disorder covers a category of diagnoses that are distinguished by causing serious alterations in perception, a lack of adjustment with the reality that surrounds the patient, and neuropsychological disorganization that affects a large number of executive functions.
However, by administering thiothixene the patient will be able to think more clearly, reduce their level of excitement and, therefore, better integrate into their environment and carry out daily activities.
Furthermore, this antipsychotic facilitates the reduction of aggressive behaviors and the desire or need to harm other people or oneself. In the same way, by helping to restore mental balance, it also helps reduce the number of hallucinations.
How is it administered?
Thiotixene is marketed in capsules of different concentrations or quantities, which are administered depending on the severity of the patient’s symptoms.
Taken orally, the usual dose of thiothixene is one capsule 1 to 3 times a day. However, the medical professional will adjust the dose according to the patient’s specific needs.
Usually, and with the purpose of reducing some side effects such as sedation or tremors to the minimum possible, treatment with thiothixene will be started gradually starting with a low dose of this and increasing it as the first weeks pass.
It is vitally important that the patient follows his doctor’s instructions to the letter. Although 2 or 3 weeks may pass before the patient begins to notice the effects of thiothixene, the patient can never stop taking the medication or take more doses than indicated without first consulting with the doctor.
If the patient suddenly stops taking this drug, you are at risk of suffering from a range of symptoms such as a feeling of acute confusion and very serious hallucinations. Therefore, if treatment must be terminated, it should be done gradually and under medical supervision.
What side effects does it have?
Like many other antipsychotic drugs, thiothixene entails a series of side effects for the patient which, on some occasions, can cause serious discomfort for the person.
These side effects can be divided into those that do not require medical attention and those in which it is necessary to contact a medical professional as soon as possible.
In any case, if these side effects worsen or last over time, it is necessary to inform the doctor so that he can adjust the dose.
Non-serious side effects
Serious side effects
What precautions should be taken with its consumption?
It is necessary that the patient inform their doctor, before starting treatment, of any allergies, illnesses or special health conditions in which they are found and that may interfere with the progress of the treatment.
There are a series of conditions or diseases that can be aggravated by the consumption of thiothixene. These are:
Brain tumors or head injuries
Dementia
Heart Conditions
Blood disorders
Parkinson’s disease
Kidney disorders and liverworts
In the same way, the doctor must be aware of any medication, vitamin supplement or natural complex that the patient consumes both before and during treatment with thiothixene. Since these can cause a series of interferences with thiothixene and cause damage to the person’s body.
Due to the sedative effects, thiothixene may cause drowsiness and dizziness in those who consume it. Therefore, patients who carry out activities such as driving or operating heavy machinery should pause their activities or, at least, take special precautions during treatment.
Likewise, the consumption of thiothixene during pregnancy and breastfeeding could cause harm to the newborn, so its administration should be restricted to cases in which there is no effective alternative treatment.
