Molindone is a medication with a long history of helping people manage the often overwhelming symptoms of serious mental health conditions. It is part of a group of drugs known as antipsychotics, which help manage various symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. While less commonly prescribed today, molindone continues to provide therapeutic value for some people struggling with schizophrenia.
Molindone Uses and History
Molindone hydrochloride (or molindone) is a first-generation antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Its primary purpose is to reduce the severity of hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking that are often associated with these conditions. By targeting the brain’s dopamine receptors, molindone helps restore balance to the brain’s chemical activity, which can improve mental stability [1].
Starting in 1974, molindone was available under the brand name Moban, which was developed by Endo Pharmaceuticals [2]. Originally available in capsule and tablet forms, Moban was discontinued in 2010, and only generic forms of molindone are available today [2][3]. Despite its reduced prominence in modern psychiatry, some prescribers still use molindone for psychotic episodes in specific circumstances.
Types of Antipsychotic Medications
Various antipsychotic medications, including molindone, are used to manage disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. These medications help regulate brain activity to reduce symptoms [4]. Over time, the development of antipsychotic drugs has progressed, with newer medications offering improved safety profiles and fewer side effects.
Molindone is a first-generation antipsychotic, also known as a typical antipsychotic. However, typical antipsychotics have largely been replaced by second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics such as quetiapine (Seroquel), lurasidone (Latuda), and olanzapine (Zyprexa) or the combination of olanzapine/fluoxetine (Symbyax).
Current antipsychotic medications fall into the following broad categories [4]:
- First-generation antipsychotics: These medications, including molindone, chlorpromazine (Thorazine), perphenazine (Trilafon), and haloperidol (Haldol), were the first to be developed. They primarily block dopamine receptors in the brain, which can reduce psychotic symptoms.
- Second-generation antipsychotics: Also called atypical antipsychotics, these medications, such as brexpiprazole (Rexulti), olanzapine (Zyprexa), cariprazine (Vraylar), and lumateperone (Caplyta), target both dopamine and serotonin receptors, blocking some and activating others.
- Next-generation antipsychotics: This newer category includes medications such as xanomeline and trospium chloride (Cobenfy) designed to further limit side effects while improving effectiveness. They may target additional receptors or use novel mechanisms to regulate brain activity.
The progression from first- to next-generation antipsychotics reflects ongoing efforts to improve treatment outcomes and minimize side effects for those relying on antipsychotic medications.
How Molindone Works
Like other first-generation antipsychotics, molindone is thought to target dopamine receptors in the brain [5]. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in regulating mood, behavior, and thought processes. In people with psychotic disorders, dopamine activity can become imbalanced, leading to symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. By blocking dopamine receptors, molindone helps to stabilize this activity, reducing the severity of these symptoms [5].
The specific action of molindone is particularly effective for managing symptoms tied to schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. However, this mechanism of action also contributes to some of the side effects associated with first-generation antipsychotics, such as movement-related issues and sedation [6].
How Molindone is Taken
Molindone is typically prescribed in tablet form, taken orally. The medication is available in three strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, and 25 mg tablets, allowing for dosage adjustments based on the severity of symptoms and the person’s response to treatment [2]. Healthcare providers generally tailor dosages to each person’s needs and adjust them gradually to minimize side effects [6].
When prescribing molindone, healthcare providers often start with a lower initial dose, which is then increased gradually under careful supervision. This approach helps ensure that the medication is effective while reducing the likelihood of side effects. Molindone is typically taken several times a day, as its relatively short half-life requires consistent dosing to maintain stable levels in the bloodstream [1].
For optimal results, molindone should be taken at the same time each day, following the specific instructions provided by a healthcare provider. Missing doses or abruptly stopping the medication can increase the risk of symptom recurrence or withdrawal effects, so patients are advised to consult their provider before making any changes to their regimen [1]. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are also an essential part of treatment.
Side Effects of Molindone
Like most medications, molindone can cause side effects, which vary in severity depending on the dose and how the body responds to treatment. The effects of antipsychotic medications such as molindone can be divided into common and serious side effects. While many people tolerate molindone well, they should be aware of potential reactions and consult a healthcare provider if concerns arise.
Common side effects of molindone include [1]:
- Dizziness, blurred vision, or trouble maintaining balance
- Dry mouth, increased saliva
- Nausea, constipation, difficulty urinating
- Blank facial expression
- Unusual, slowed, or uncontrollable body movements
- Restlessness, excitement or increased activity
- Breast enlargement, milk production
- Depression, unexplained happiness
Serious side effects of molindone include [1]:
- Fever, sweating, rash, fast or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle stiffness, neck cramps, throat tightness
- Vision changes
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Unusual tongue positioning and movement
- Uncontrollable movements in the jaw, face, or mouth
- Seizures
If any serious side effects occur, seeking medical attention immediately is essential. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider can help identify and manage side effects early, ensuring safe and effective use of molindone.
Molindone Boxed Warning
Molindone carries a boxed warning from the FDA, highlighting specific risks that patients and healthcare providers must closely monitor. Specifically, the boxed warning indicates that elderly patients suffering from dementia-related psychosis and being treated with antipsychotic medications face a higher risk of death.
A review of 17 placebo-controlled trials primarily involving atypical antipsychotic drugs found that the risk of death in patients receiving these medications was approximately 1.6 to 1.7 times greater than in those receiving a placebo. While the causes of death varied, most were linked to cardiovascular issues, such as heart failure and sudden death, or infections like pneumonia [7].
Molindone Drug Interactions
Molindone can interact with a variety of medications, supplements, and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Specifically, molindone shouldn’t be taken with metoclopramide, which is used for gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, it may interact with alcohol, tetracyclines (a type of antibiotic), phenytoin (used to treat seizures), cabergoline (used to treat a blood condition), some depression medications, and levodopa and other Parkinson’s disease pharmaceuticals [8].
Effective antipsychotic medication management is vital to reduce the risk of interactions, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Older adults, for instance, may process medications more slowly, making them more susceptible to side effects such as confusion, sedation, or falls. People should inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and substances to avoid complications.
Molindone’s Impact and Future
While less commonly used today, Molindone remains a valuable option in the treatment of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. As a first-generation antipsychotic, it works by targeting dopamine receptors in the brain to reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. While newer antipsychotic medications have largely taken precedence due to improved side effect profiles, molindone can still offer relief for those who respond well to its specific mechanism.
Particularly in older adults and those taking multiple prescriptions, its use must be carefully managed to avoid harmful interactions. However, with proper antipsychotic medication management, molindone can continue to play a meaningful role in supporting mental health and stability among certain populations.
- Medline Plus. (2017, July 15). Molindone. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682238.html. Accessed May 21 2025.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Drugs@FDA: FDA-approved drugs. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=BasicSearch.process. Accessed May 21 2025.
- Psychiatry Online. (2010, March). Moban production stopped. Psychiatric News, 45(5). https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/pn.45.5.psychnews_45_5_024. Accessed May 21 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. (2024, November 22). Antipsychotic medications. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24692-antipsychotic-medications. Accessed May 21 2025.
- Drugbank. (n.d.). Molindone Drugbank. https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01618. Accessed May 21 2025.
- Drugs.com. (2023, August 9). Molindone. Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/molindone.html#interactions. Accessed May 21 2025.
- DailyMed. (2023, November 8). Label: Molindone hydrochloride tablet. National Library of Medicine. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=1275e92f-9573-4d0c-8e77-1c9ac47696d2. Accessed May 21 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Molindone tablets. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20303-molindone-tablets. Accessed May 21 2025.
The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.
MentalHealth.com is a health technology company guiding people towards self-understanding and connection. The platform provides reliable resources, accessible services, and nurturing communities. Its purpose is to educate, support, and empower people in their pursuit of well-being.
Linda Armstrong is an award-winning writer and editor with over 20 years of experience across print and digital media.
Dr. Holly Schiff, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, young adults, and their families.
Medical Reviewer:
The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.
MentalHealth.com is a health technology company guiding people towards self-understanding and connection. The platform provides reliable resources, accessible services, and nurturing communities. Its purpose is to educate, support, and empower people in their pursuit of well-being.