Mellaril side effects: what you need to know

Mellaril, whose generic name is thioridazine, is an older antipsychotic used for severe mental health conditions. Like any medicine, it can cause side effects that range from mild annoyances to serious health risks. Knowing what to expect helps you act fast and stay comfortable.

Common Mellaril side effects

Most people on Mellaril notice some of these everyday reactions:

• Drowsiness – You might feel sleepy after a dose. Try taking the pill at night if it fits your schedule.
• Dry mouth – Sip water, chew sugar‑free gum, or use a saliva substitute.
• Constipation – Eat fiber‑rich foods, stay hydrated, and move around daily.
• Blurred vision – Give your eyes a break, avoid driving if it’s severe.
• Dizziness or light‑headed feeling – Stand up slowly, especially after sitting or lying down.
• Weight gain – Watch your diet and add regular exercise where possible.
• Low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension) – You may feel faint when standing up quickly.

These side effects usually improve as your body gets used to the medication. If they keep bothering you after a couple of weeks, talk to your doctor.

When to seek medical help

Some reactions need immediate attention. Call your doctor or go to urgent care if you notice:

• Irregular heartbeat or a feeling of your heart “skipping” beats.
• Severe muscle stiffness, high fever, or confusion – signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
• Sudden, unexplained dizziness that leads to fainting.
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat – possible allergic reaction.
• Changes in mood that feel out of control, like extreme agitation or severe depression.

These symptoms, while rare, can be dangerous. Prompt treatment can prevent complications.

Here are a few practical tips to lower the chance of side effects:

• Take Mellaril exactly as prescribed – don’t skip doses or stop suddenly.
• Keep a daily log of how you feel. Note any new symptoms and share them with your healthcare team.
• Avoid alcohol and sedating drugs while on Mellaril, as they can increase drowsiness.
• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals to help with dry mouth and constipation.
• If you’re on other medicines, ask your pharmacist about possible interactions.

Regular check‑ups are key. Your doctor may run blood tests or an ECG to watch for heart‑related side effects, especially if you have a history of cardiac issues.

Remember, not everyone gets every side effect. Some people feel fine, while others need adjustments to dose or a switch to a different medication. Open communication with your clinician makes sure you get the right balance between symptom control and side effect management.

Bottom line: know the common signs, act quickly on serious warnings, and keep your doctor in the loop. With the right plan, you can stay safe while Mellaril does its job.