Levomepromazine

About levomepromazine

Levomepromazine works by interfering with the chemical transmitters in the brain. It is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia such as hearing, seeing or sensing things that are not there, mistaken beliefs and problems dealing with other people. It can also be used in palliative care to treat pain, restlessness, anxiety and being sick.

Before taking levomepromazine

Before taking levomepromazine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from any heart problems.
• If you suffer from liver, kidney or breathing problems.
• If you suffer from Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, or depression.
• If you suffer from phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands).
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease), prostate problems, or glaucoma (high pressure within the eye).
• If you suffer from postural hypotension (if you become dizzy when getting up from a sitting or lying position).
• If you have ever had jaundice or a blood disorder.
• If you are more than 50 years of age.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take levomepromazine

• Always read the manufacturers information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• Take levomepromazine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to get into the habit of taking levomepromazine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do miss a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is time to take the next dose. Never take two doses together.
• You may have to take levomepromazine for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Do not stop taking levomepromazine without first speaking with your doctor. Your doctor will probably want to reduce the dose you are taking gradually, as stopping treatment suddenly can cause complications.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of levomepromazine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any over-the-counter medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe to take alongside levomepromazine.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will probably have to undergo tests during your treatment to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
• Alcohol will increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Before having any surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the surgeon, doctor or dentist that you are taking levomepromazine.
• Levomepromazine can cause some people's skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Try to avoid the sun and sunbeds until you know how your skin reacts or use a suncream higher than factor 15.

Can levomepromazine cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other effects may include weakness, mood changes, insomnia, headache, confusion, constipation, diarrhoea, tummy ache, a stuffy nose, problems urinating, changes in menstruation, breast problems, sexual problems, weight gain, skin rashes, or purple tint to the skin and eyes.

Let your doctor know if you experience any of the following effects: jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), shakiness, abnormal face and body movements, restlessness, uncontrollable movements of the tongue, face, and jaw.

IMPORTANT: If you experience 'flu like' symptoms such as stiffness, high temperature, abnormal paleness, leaking bladder and a racing heartbeat contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital immediately.

How to store levomepromazine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines