Geodon (Ziprasidone)

What is Geodon?

Geodon is an antipsychotic medication with generic name ziprasidone.

What is Geodon used for?

Geodon is used for the treatment of schizophrenia or any other manic episode of bipolar mayhem. It cures acute agitation in adults and children above 10 years of age.

How does Geodon work?

Geodon works by combating the action of the brain’s two major chemical messengers. These chemicals, namely serotonin and dopamine, are responsible for thinking and behavior.

How to use Geodon

Geodon can be taken in capsule form or can be injected. Follow the instructions given by your doctor and take it in exact order and amount.

Geodon must be taken with food. When being injected, make sure you are under the supervision of your doctor. Geodon capsules can be consumed at home but make sure you tag along the proper procedure. The drug can be taken twice a day and for best results take it regularly.

Geodon warnings and precautions

While taking Geodon, it is advisable not to consume alcohol or any other medicine causing drowsiness.

Heat stroke is likely to occur, therefore, do not expose yourself to harsh sunlight.

Geodon, in some cases, may result in prolonged, painful erection even if you are not having sex. Consult your doctor as this problem, if left unchecked, may result in lifelong impotency.

Your immune system is likely to be affected, therefore, stay away from people with infection. Diabetic patients may notice changes in their blood sugar or the medicine may even increase certain hormone levels in the body. Check with your doctor immediately.

A fatal condition, Serotonin syndrome can be seen in patients taking Geodon. This syndrome is likely to cause confusion, agitation, hallucination etc. This requires instant attention.

Be cautious when using Geodon on elderly people or children as, they may be excessively sensitive to its effect. Pregnant or lactating women should discuss the effects of Geodon with their doctor beforehand.

What do I do if I have missed a Geodon dose?

If you have missed your Geodon dose, you should take it immediately. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed one and get back to the schedule.

What do I do if I have taken a Geodon overdose?

If you have taken a Geodon overdose, you should seek medical help instantly. Overdose may cause serious consequences, so contact the nearest poison control centre.

Geodon interactions

Geodon is likely to interact with levomethadyl, serotonin receptor antagonist antiemetics, sparfloxacin, streptogramins, bepridil, halofantrine, phenothiazines, methadone, pentamidine, terfenadine, tetrabenazine, levomethadyl, immunosuppressives, cisapride, Arsenic, astemizole, bepridil, class III antiarrhythmics, pimozide, probucol, quinolones, domperidone, droperidol, maprotiline, mefloquine, etc. Check with your doctor before the treatment begins. These may result in an increased and abnormal heart rhythm.

While Tramadol is said to increase the number of seizures, Carbamazepine results in diminishing Geodon’s effectiveness. An interaction with Ketoconzole can further augment the risk of Geodon’s side effects.

Geodon side effects

Some minor side effects include constipation, restlessness, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite, runny nose, headache, unusually tired and sleepy, dizziness, diarrhea, anxiety, upset stomach, pain at the injection site, etc. These common side effects should be talked about with your doctor, if they persist or become troublesome.

Immediate medical attention should be ensured in case of severe side effects like fainting, enlarged breasts, muscle spasms or twitching, sweating, increased urination, decreased sexual ability, confusion, unusual mood or mental changes, welling of lips or mouth, allergies, symptoms of high blood sugar, prolonged and painful erection, seizures, vision changes etc.

Stiff muscle, fast or irregular heart beat are some other effects of MMS syndrome, one is likely to face after consuming this medicine.