Molindone is no longer available in the United States after June 30, 2010. If you are currently taking molindone, you should call your doctor to discuss switching to another treatment.
Studies have shown that older adults with dementia (a brain disorder that affects the ability to remember, think clearly, communicate, and perform daily activities and that may cause changes in mood and personality) who take antipsychotics (medications for mental illness) such as molindone have an increased chance of death during treatment.
Molindone is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of behavior problems in older adults with dementia. Talk to the doctor who prescribed this medication if you, a family member, or someone you care for has dementia and is taking molindone. For more information visit the FDA website: http://www.fda.gov/Drugs
Molindone is used to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions). Molindone is in a class of medications called conventional antipsychotics. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.
Molindone comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken three or four times a day. Try to take molindone at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take molindone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of molindone and gradually increase your dose after 3 to 4 days. Later, your doctor may increase or decrease your dose, depending on your response to the medication and the side effects you experience. Be sure to tell your doctor how you are feeling during your treatment with molindone.
Molindone may help to control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take molindone even if you feel well. Do not stop taking molindone without talking to your doctor. It may take several weeks or longer for you to feel the full benefit of molindone.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
drowsiness
dry mouth
blurred vision
increased saliva
nausea
constipation
difficulty urinating
blank facial expression
shuffling walk
unusual, slowed, or uncontrollable movements of any part of the body
restlessness
hyperactivity
depression
inappropriate happiness
breast enlargement
breast milk production
missed menstrual periods
fever
muscle stiffness
confusion
fast or irregular heartbeat
sweating
neck cramps
tongue that sticks out of the mouth
tightness in the throat
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fine, worm-like tongue movements
uncontrollable, rhythmic face, mouth, or jaw movements
seizures
erection that lasts for hours
vision loss, especially at night
seeing everything with a brown tint
Molindone may cause other side effects. Tell your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
unusual, slowed, or uncontrollable movements of any part of the body
loss of consciousness
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Revised - 05/16/2012
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.