Navane (thiothixene)
Brand name: Navane®
Active ingredient name: Thiothixene
Type of drug: Typical antipsychotic
Form: Oral capsules
Brand name available in Canada from: Erfa Canada Inc.
Generic: No
Listed on Ontario formulary: Yes
What is Navane used for?
Navane is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic illnesses in adults and children over 12 years of age.
How should I take Navane?
Navane can be taken with or without food. It can be taken once daily.
How much Navane should I take?
- Navane is available in 2, 5, and 10 mg tablets.
- The starting dose is usually 5 to 10 mg once a day. The usual dosage range is 15 to 30 mg once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose up or down depending on your response, up to 60 mg a day. Discuss your individual dose with your doctor.
What are the common side effects seen with Navane?
Side effects of Navane may include:
- Abnormal movements (extrapyramidal symptoms)
- Changes in monthly menstrual cycle (amenorrhea)
- Decreased sexual interest and/or function
- Swelling of breasts and milk production in males and females
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Headache
- Weight changes
- Blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to sunburn
What are rare but potentially serious adverse effects with Navane?
- Decrease in white blood cell count (agranulocytosis)
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
- Sudden cardiac death (heart attack)
- Torsades de pointes (serious heart arrhythmia)
Warnings/Precautions
Elderly individuals with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic medication are at an increased risk of death compared to individuals not receiving antipsychotics. Most deaths appear to be either cardiovascular or infectious. Navane is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis. Some individuals with dementia may however be treated with this medication. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor for this indication.
What medications interact with Navane?
Tell all your doctors, pharmacists, and dentists that you are taking Navane. You should also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medications, including those obtained without a prescription.
The following types of medications may interact with Navane :
- Certain medications for allergies (e.g., Benadryl [diphenhydramine])
- Certain medications for sleep (e.g., lorazepam, zopiclone)
- Certain medications for pain (e.g., fentanyl)
- Antiparkinson medications
Avoid drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs while taking Navane