Why was thioridazine - mellaril discontinued in the US?

Thioridazine, marketed as Mellaril, was discontinued in the U.S. primarily due to concerns over its safety profile, particularly its association with serious cardiac side effects, including QT interval prolongation and the risk of arrhythmias. Additionally, the availability of newer antipsychotic medications with more favorable side effect profiles contributed to its decline in use. The FDA ultimately withdrew its approval in 2005, emphasizing the need for safer treatment options for patients with schizophrenia and other disorders.