Moban (molindone) is an antipsychotic medication belonging to the typical group of antipsychotics. It was developed to help manage the accompanying symptoms of schizophrenia. Moban is a prescription-only medication that alters the effects of dopamine in the brain, typically resulting in reduced psychoses. The hallucinations, strong emotions, and delusions that can sometimes accompany schizophrenia may be controlled, but not permanently cured by this medication.
As of January 13, 2010, Moban was discontinued by its producer Endo® Pharmaceuticals, Inc. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, this was the result of a business decision and not because of safety reasons. If you have been taking this medication and you live in the U.S., you should consult with your doctor to choose a suitable alternative.
Serious side effects of this medication may include:
Less serious side effects of this medication may include:
Do not take Moban if you have had an allergic reaction to this medication in the past. Certain medications may not interact well with this drug. Avoid using this medication with antihistamines, narcotic pain relievers, barbiturates, sleeping pills, medicines used to treat Parkinson’s disease, and some antibiotics. Check with your doctor and report any medications or supplements, including herbal products, vitamins, and minerals that you are currently taking. Do not take new medications without first consulting your doctor.
This medication is not recommended for older adults with dementia as it may increase the risk of death because of cardiovascular issues or infection. Prolonged use of this medication may result in a chronic movement condition known as tardive dyskinesia. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially fatal complex characterized by high fever, muscle rigidity, irregular heartbeat, rapid heartbeat, irregular blood pressure, excessive sweating, and an altered mental state, may develop.
If you are currently experiencing depression or have experienced depression in the past, you should talk to your doctor before you start to take this drug. You should also mention any history of breast cancer, liver disease, low white blood cell count, heart disease, or seizures and any serious reactions or side effects that you have had to other similar medications. This drug may obscure signs of brain tumor or intestinal obstruction.
As safe and effective pediatric use of this medication has not been established, it is not recommended for the treatment of children younger than 12 years of age.
Your doctor will likely reduce your Moban dosage over time if you need to stop taking this medication. Tapering off the dosage instead of abruptly stopping this medication will lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Possible symptoms of withdrawal may include: