Indications
Geodon (active ingredient: ziprasidone) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Schizophrenia: Geodon is used for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults, helping to manage symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
- Bipolar Disorder: It is also indicated for the treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder in adults, as well as maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder as an adjunct to lithium or valproate.
Geodon belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics, which work by affecting the actions of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, to help restore mental balance and reduce symptoms of psychosis and mood disorders.
Uses and Dosage
Ziprasidone (Geodon) comes in the form of a capsule to be taken by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. It is important to swallow the capsules whole, and not to open, crush, or chew them.
The dosage of Geodon is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may recommend that you start with a low dose and gradually increase the dose. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking Geodon.
- For treating schizophrenia, the typical starting dose of ziprasidone (Geodon) is 20 mg by mouth twice a day with food. The dose can be increased up to a maximum of 80 mg twice a day with food.
- For treating bipolar I disorder, the typical starting dose is 40 mg by mouth twice a day with food and can be increased up to a maximum of 80 mg twice a day with food.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Ziprasidone:
- Constipation
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Runny nose
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Ziprasidone:
- Changes in urine output
- Depression
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fainting
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar level
- Elevated levels of cholesterol or triglyceride
- Increased prolactin
- Muscle spasms
- Restlessness
- Seizures
- Severe dizziness
- Signs of liver disease
- Dark urine
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Skin
- Yellowish eyes
- Sleep apnea
- Symptoms of the neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- Fever
- Confusion
- Irregular heartbeat
- Muscle pain/weakness
- Severe tiredness
- Tremors
- Vision changes
Form and Strength
Geodon (Ziprasidone) is available in the following forms and strength:
Geodon: Capsule
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
- 60 mg
- 80 mg
Ziprasidone: Capsule
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
- 60 mg
- 80 mg
Caution
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary. Babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy. If any of these symptoms appear in your newborn, particularly within the first month, contact the doctor immediately.
- Geodon may make you sweat less, making you more likely to get heatstroke. Avoid doing things that may cause you to overheat, such as demanding work or exercise in hot weather, or using hot tubs. When the weather is hot, drink a lot of fluids and dress lightly. If you overheat, quickly look for a place to cool down and rest.
- When taking Geodon, monitor patient therapeutic response, worsening of depressive symptoms, and risk of suicidal ideation initially and at follow-up visits.
- Ziprasidone can cause QT prolongation, which is a condition that affects the heart rhythm. Ziprasidone should be avoided when taking other medications that can cause QT prolongation, as this could increase the risk of serious side effects.
- Ziprasidone may increase the amount of sugar in your blood. If you or your child have increased thirst or increased urination, check with your doctor right away. If you have any questions, it is best to consult your doctor.
- Ziprasidone may make you dizzy or drowsy, and it can be even more dangerous when combined with alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). Therefore, avoid alcoholic beverages and marijuana (cannabis) while taking ziprasidone, and do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can do it safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should Geodon be taken?
Geodon should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, usually once or twice daily.
Is Geodon safe?
Geodon is considered safe when taken as directed. However, as with any medication, there can be potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.
Are there any precautions to take when taking Geodon?
Yes, there are some precautions to take when taking Geodon. It can increase your risk for developing diabetes and for developing abnormal movements. It can also cause an increase in blood pressure, monitor your blood pressure regularly. Talk to your doctor about any other precautions you should take.
How long does it take for ziprasidone (Geodon) to start working?
You can start to feel better within 1-2 weeks, but it can take up to 6 weeks to feel the full benefit of this medication.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/risperidone-oral-route/before-using/drg-20067189
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20575/geodon-oral/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/geodon-drug.htm
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448157/
- https://www.goodrx.com/ziprasidone/what-is
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699062.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/ziprasidone.html
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