Geodon
Brand Names:
Geodon
Geodon Description:
Geodon is an antipsychotic drug used to reduce the symptoms associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While the exact causes of these mental illnesses are unknown, experts believe genetic predisposition, environmental factors and neurochemical abnormalities may all play a role in their development. Geodon works by inhibiting certain chemicals in the brain such as the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which may be key factors in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Geodon Side Effects:
Common side effects associated with Geodon include:
- Constipation
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Involuntary muscle movements or facial tics
- Nausea
- Rash
- Restlessness
- Runny nose
Geodon may be associated with other, more serious side effects.
For more information see our Geodon side effects page.
Geodon Uses:
Geodon capsules are used to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia, a chronic condition characterized by paranoia, hallucinations, delusions and movement disorders. Geodon capsules are also used to reduce the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, a condition in which patients experience severe mood swings oscillating between extreme mania and extreme depression.
The Geodon injection is used in some schizophrenic patients for the acute treatment of agitation.
Geodon Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking Geodon.
The following medications may adversely interact with Geodon:
- Arsenic trioxide
- Chlorpromazine
- Dofetilide
- Dolasetron mesylate
- Droperidol
- Gatifloxacin
- Halofantrine
- Levomethadyl acetate
- Mefloquine
- Mesoridazine
- Moxifloxacin
- Other anti-arrhythmics
- Pentamidine
- Pimozide
- Probucol
- Quinidine
- Sotalol
- Sparfloxacin
- Tacrolimus
- Thioridazine
Geodon Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Geodon dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will establish the size and frequency of your dosage depending upon your individual needs. It is important to follow the dosage guidelines established by your doctor.
Geodon is available as both an oral capsule and an injection. Patients with schizophrenia beginning treatment with Geodon usually take a twice-daily dose of 20 mg. Patients with bipolar I disorder generally initiate treatment with a twice-daily dosage of 40 mg. Your doctor may increase your dosage if necessary. The oral capsule should be taken with a meal, at the same time every day.
The injection version of Geodon is intended for intramuscular insertion only and is typically administered by a healthcare professional in individual doses of 10 – 20 mg. The total daily dosage will not usually exceed 40 mg.
It may take up to a few weeks for symptoms to improve when starting treatment with Geodon.
It is important to talk to your doctor before discontinuing use of this medication.
Missing a Dose of Geodon
If you forget to take a dose of Geodon, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
Geodon Overdose
Contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention if you believe you may have overdosed on Geodon.
Geodon FDA Approval:
February 5, 2001
Geodon Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Geodon carries a black box warning informing consumers of the increased risk of fatality posed to elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with this medication. Geodon is not approved for use in such patients.
Other Warnings
If you have a history of heart problems or are using certain other medications, Geodon may increase the risk of dangerous complications. Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking as well as any history of heart problems.
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