Pimozide
Pimozide is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat Tourette syndrome and certain psychotic disorders. It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, helping to reduce tics, hallucinations, and delusions. This medication requires careful monitoring due to potential serious side effects affecting the heart.
Pimozide is an antipsychotic used to treat Tourette syndrome and schizophrenia by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05AG02
- RxNorm
- 8331
- Generic
- Pimozide
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Pimozide is FDA-approved for the treatment of Tourette syndrome to reduce motor and vocal tics. It is also used off-label or in some regions for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders when other treatments are ineffective or inappropriate.
Pimozide is a potent dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. By blocking these receptors in the mesolimbic pathway of the brain, it reduces dopaminergic neurotransmission, which helps alleviate psychotic symptoms and tics associated with Tourette syndrome.
Pimozide carries a risk of QT prolongation (heart rhythm abnormality) and should not be combined with other drugs that prolong QT interval. Regular ECG monitoring and blood tests are typically required during treatment. It may cause sedation, extrapyramidal symptoms, and weight gain. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly without medical supervision.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy