ZIPRASIDONE (GeodonŽ) treats the symptoms of schizophrenia. Such symptoms may include hearing or seeing things that others do not, suspiciousness of others, mistaken beliefs, or withdrawal from normal activities, family and friends. This drug may also help treat some other emotional problems, such as bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression). Generic ziprasidone capsules are not yet available.
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take ziprasidone capsules by mouth with food. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water and take each dose with food. Take your doses at regular intervals, usually at the same times each day. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Do not take ziprasidone with any of the following medications:
Ziprasidone may also interact with the following medications:
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Because the following side effects could mean you are having a heart rhythm problem, contact your prescriber immediately for:
Other side effects to report to your prescriber as soon as possible for:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
Less common or rare:
More Common:
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. It may be several weeks before you see the full effects of ziprasidone. Do not suddenly stop taking ziprasidone. Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the dose. Only stop taking ziprasidone on your prescriber's advice.
You may get dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how ziprasidone affects you. Alcohol can increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.
If you notice an increased thirst or hunger, different from your normal hunger or thirst, or if you find that you must frequently use the restroom (excessive urination), you should contact your health care provider as soon as possible. You may need to have your blood sugar monitored.
Ziprasidone may cause your skin to become more sensitive to the sun or ultraviolet light. If this reaction occurs, it can cause a severe sunburn and damage the skin. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Ziprasidone can change the response of your body to heat or cold. Try not to get overheated. Avoid temperature extremes, such as saunas, hot tubs, or very hot or cold baths or showers. Dress warmly in cold weather.
If you experience dry mouth while taking ziprasidone, make sure to drink plenty of water. It may also be helpful to suck on sugarless hard candy or crushed ice. If your dry mouth is severe, ask your doctor about a saliva substitute.
If you are going to have surgery tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking ziprasidone.
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15 degrees and 30 degrees C (59 degrees and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.