Loxapac (Loxapine Succinate)

Description

Indications

Loxapine is prescribed to alleviate the symptoms associated with schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by disturbed or unconventional thinking, diminished interest in life, and intense or inappropriate emotions. Belonging to a class of medications known as conventional antipsychotics, loxapine functions by reducing abnormal excitement within the brain.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, typically 2 to 4 times daily.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a specialized measuring device or dropper. Mix it into a liquid or soft food (such as applesauce or pudding) just before consumption. Avoid using a household spoon, as it may lead to incorrect dosing.

The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. To minimize the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and tremors, your doctor may advise starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it. Follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

Take this medication regularly to derive the maximum benefit. To aid in remembering, take it at the same time(s) each day.

While you may notice some improvement in symptoms shortly after starting this medication, it may take several weeks to months to experience its full benefits.

Do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor, as some conditions may worsen if the drug is abruptly stopped. To mitigate these effects during discontinuation, your doctor may taper your dose gradually.

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• dizziness, feeling unsteady, or having trouble keeping your balance
• faintness
• weakness
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• blurred vision
• dry mouth
• increased saliva
• nausea
• vomiting
• constipation
• difficulty urinating
• excessive thirst
• weight gain or loss
• agitation
• slurred speech
• headache
• rash
• itching
• hair loss
• flushing
• drooping eyelids
• puffing of the face
• blank facial expression
• shuffling walk
• unusual, slowed, or uncontrollable movements of any part of the body
• restlessness
• numbness, burning, or tingling of the hands or feet
• breast milk production
• breast enlargement
• missed menstrual periods
• decreased sexual ability in men

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• fever
• muscle stiffness
• falling
• confusion
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• sweating
• neck cramps
• tightness in the throat
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• tongue that sticks out of the mouth
• fine, worm-like tongue movements
• uncontrollable, rhythmic face, mouth, or jaw movements
• seizures
• decreased vision, especially in low light

Caution

• Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may also trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
• Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blood problems, glaucoma, heart problems, liver disease, brain disorder/tumor/injury, drug/alcohol/substance abuse, breast cancer, Parkinson’s disease, seizures, a severe reaction to other antipsychotic medications, or difficulty urinating.
• This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do them safely. Limit alcohol consumption and discuss marijuana use with your doctor.
• This medication may increase sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors. Inform your doctor if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
• Be cautious in hot weather, as this medication may decrease sweating, increasing the risk of heat stroke. Avoid overheating and seek medical help if you experience fever, mental/mood changes, headache, or dizziness.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, muscle stiffness/spasms, and tardive dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements). These effects increase the risk of falling.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed. Babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop symptoms such as muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or constant crying. If you notice these symptoms in your newborn, especially during their first month, notify the doctor immediately.
• Since untreated mental/mood problems like schizophrenia can be serious, do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or suspect you may be pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.
• It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Loxapac is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Loxapac tablet:
  • 2.5 mg
  • 10 mg
  • 25 mg

FAQ

How long does it take Loxapac to work?

You might start to feel the calming effects of Loxapac within 20 to 30 minutes, but it can take longer to feel the full effects. Keep in mind that when you’re starting Loxapac for the first time, it might take some time before you and your provider find the right dose of the medication that works best for you.

Does Loxapac make you sleepy?

Loxapac can cause drowsiness, but it’s usually mild and typically only occurs when you first start the medication or when your provider raises your dose.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/loxapine/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/loxapine-oral-route/description/drg-20064610
3. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/loxapine-oral
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5557/loxapine-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682311.html