About pimozide
Antipsychotic; dopamine receptor blocker
Used for
- Tourette syndrome: reduces severe tics when symptoms cause significant distress or impairment.
Usual adult dose
Tourette syndrome: usually start at 1–2 mg daily; increase gradually under specialist supervision, typically up to 10 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
For Tourette syndrome, children aged 12 years and older may start at 0.05 mg/kg daily; increase gradually, generally not exceeding 0.2 mg/kg or 10 mg daily.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, or weakness
- Restlessness or movement problems
- Dry mouth, constipation, or nausea
- Changes in heart rhythm
Important warnings
- Can prolong the heart’s electrical interval and cause dangerous arrhythmias; ECG monitoring is important.
- Avoid with certain medicines that prolong heart rhythm or raise pimozide levels.
- May cause involuntary movements, severe muscle stiffness, fever, or confusion; these require urgent assessment.
- Can increase prolactin and may worsen depression or suicidal thoughts.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed after specialist assessment; discuss risks and benefits, as newborns may have withdrawal or movement symptoms.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended because pimozide may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.
Interactions
- QT-prolonging medicines, including some antibiotics and antiarrhythmics, increase arrhythmia risk.
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as clarithromycin and ketoconazole, can raise pimozide levels.
- Grapefruit may increase pimozide levels.
- Alcohol and sedatives can increase drowsiness and impaired coordination.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.