Molindone
MOBAN
What it isFirst-generation D2-antagonist antipsychotic for schizophrenia.
Why this oneTends to cause less weight gain than many antipsychotics, but has no unique efficacy advantage.
What limits itExtrapyramidal symptoms, akathisia, hyperprolactinemia, and multiple-daily dosing limit use.
FDA-approved for
- schizophrenia (~1974)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychotic disorder (antipsychotic) | Adult | 50–75 mg/day | 225 mg/day (severe) |
Titration Increase to 100 mg/day in 3–4 days.
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Individualize initial and maintenance doses.
- Maintenance given in 3–4 divided doses per day.
- Elderly and debilitated patients should start at lower dosage.
Contraindications
- Severe CNS depression (alcohol, barbiturates, narcotics) or comatose states.
Cautions
- Tardive dyskinesia
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (akathisia, parkinsonism, dystonia)
- Drowsiness
- Anticholinergic effects (urinary retention, constipation)
- Neonatal EPS/withdrawal with third-trimester exposure
Adverse reactions
- Initial drowsiness
- Depression
- Hyperactivity
- Euphoria
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
- Blurred vision
- Tachycardia
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
Pregnancy Animal studies show no teratogenic potential; third-trimester exposure risks neonatal EPS/withdrawal; use only if benefit justifies risk.
Lactation Undefined
⚠ BOXED WARNING
- Antipsychotics increase mortality in older adults with dementia-related psychosis; not approved for this use
Cost, est. cash$10–$500/month
Generic entry2015
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilityMetabolic effects, extrapyramidal symptoms/tardive dyskinesia and agent-specific QT or orthostatic risk.
Mechanism of action: Molindone ballicule
Open Molindone in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
Spooky mascot → antipsychotic
Yardstick → short half-life
Banned mole → not withdrawn from market but intermittently unavailable
