Why is Geodon prescribed?

Geodon is prescribed to treat schizophrenia. It is also used for the short-term treatment of mania associated with bipolar disorder. Researchers believe that it works by opposing the action of serotonin and dopamine, two of the brain's major chemical messengers. Because of its potentially serious side effects, Geodon is typically prescribed only after other medications have proved inadequate.

Geodon is usually taken in capsule form. An injectable version is available for quick relief of agitated patients. Injectable Geodon is generally used for no more than a few days.

Why should Geodon (Ziprasidone) not be prescribed?

Do not take Geodon (Ziprasidone) if you have the heartbeat irregularity known as QT prolongation, have had a recent heart attack, or suffer from heart failure. You'll also need to avoid this drug if it gives you an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Geodon (Ziprasidone)

Remember that Geodon (Ziprasidone) can cause dangerous--even fatal--heartbeat irregularities. Warning signs include dizziness, palpitations, and fainting. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Be careful to avoid drugs that prolong the QT interval of the heartbeat. Check with your doctor before combining any other medication with Geodon.

Particularly during the first few days of therapy, fainting, with accompanying dizziness, Geodon (Ziprasidone) can cause low blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these side effects. To minimize such problems, your doctor will increase your dose gradually. If you are prone to low blood pressure, become dehydrated, take blood pressure medicine, or have heart disease or poor circulation in the brain, use Geodon with caution.

Geodon (Ziprasidone) may cause drowsiness and can impair your judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Use caution while driving and don't operate potentially dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.

Geodon (Ziprasidone) poses a very slight risk of seizures, have a history of seizures, especially if you are over age 65, or have Alzheimer's disease.

Drugs such as Geodon sometimes cause a condition called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). Symptoms include high fever, excessive perspiration, rapid heartbeat, irregular pulse or blood pressure, muscle rigidity, and changes in heart rhythm. If these symptoms appear, tell your doctor immediately. You'll need to stop taking Geodon (Ziprasidone) while the condition is under treatment.

There also is the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia, a condition marked by slow, rhythmical, involuntary movements. This problem is more likely to occur in mature adults, especially older women. When it does, use of Geodon (Ziprasidone) is usually stopped.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Geodon (Ziprasidone)

Remember that you must never combine Geodon with any drug that prolongs the part of the heartbeat known as the QT interval (see "Most important fact about this drug"). Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any doubts about a drug you're taking.

If Geodon (Ziprasidone) is taken with certain other drugs, decreased, the effects of either could be increased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Geodon with the following:

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Certain blood pressure medications
Drugs that boost the effects of dopamine such as Mirapex, and antidepressants
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Levodopa (Larodopa, tranquilizers, such as sedatives, and Requip
Drugs that affect the brain and nervous system, Permax, Parlodel, Sinet)

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

• Symptoms of Geodon (Ziprasidone) overdose may include:
  Drowsiness, slurred speech, high blood pressure