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Atypical antipsychotic (inhalation)

Loxapine

Brand names: Adasuve

Loxapine is an antipsychotic; an inhaled formulation is used for the rapid control of mild-to-moderate agitation in adults with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It antagonises central dopamine D2 and serotonin receptors, an action that underlies its antipsychotic and calming effects.

Prescribing in practice

  • The inhaled formulation can cause bronchospasm, so it is contraindicated in asthma or COPD and a bronchodilator should be available; it must be given under supervision in a healthcare setting.
  • As with other antipsychotics it may cause extrapyramidal effects, sedation and QT-interval prolongation.
  • It is intended for acute use only and patients should receive regular ongoing treatment for their underlying condition.

Monitoring

Monitor respiratory status for bronchospasm after inhalation, together with sedation, extrapyramidal symptoms and blood pressure.

Counselling the patient

  • Explain that the inhaler is used once to settle acute agitation and works quickly.
  • Report any wheeze, chest tightness or difficulty breathing immediately.
  • Tell staff about any history of asthma or other lung disease.

Evidence & guidelines

Inhaled loxapine is licensed for the acute treatment of agitation in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, with respiratory precautions detailed in the SPC.

Reference: SmPC; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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