Indications 

Geodon is a prescribed medication indicated to manage the symptoms of schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes related to bipolar disorder.  

Geodon can also function as a supplementary treatment, alongside lithium or valproate, for the maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder. 

Classified as an atypical antipsychotic medication, Geodon works to rebalance specific natural substances within the brain.  

This restorative action can effectively decrease hallucinations, promote clearer and more positive self-thinking, reduce agitation, and enable individuals to engage in more active participation in their everyday lives. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with Geodon and with each refill, carefully review its patient information leaflet and medication guide. If you have questions or clarifications, do not hesitate to seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist. 

Geodon dosage is determined by the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. To minimize the possibility of side effects, physicians usually recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it. 

Typically, Geodon is taken twice daily with meals, as prescribed by the doctor. The capsules must be swallowed whole and should not be opened, crushed, or chewed. 

Take Geodon exactly how it is prescribed. Refrain from taking more or less of it or taking it more frequently than instructed by your physician. 

To maximize the efficacy of Geodon, take it at the same time(s) daily, and continue use even if symptoms improve. Consult with your doctor before discontinuing use. 

Side Effects 

Potential side effects associated with the use of Geodon are listed below. If any of them persists or worsens, promptly inform your physician or pharmacist. 

Common Side Effects 

• Experience vertigo, fatigue, and lethargy 
• Occurrence of a headache 
• Sensations of nausea and vomiting 
• Difficulty in swallowing 
• Increase in body weight 
• Sense of restlessness or inability to remain seated 
• Involuntary muscle movements or tremors 
• Vision-related complications 
• Presence of a runny nose or an exacerbation of an existing cough 

Serious Side Effects 

• Sensations of dizziness or light-headedness that may lead to fainting 
• Presence of chest pain and rapid or pounding heartbeats 
• Uncontrolled facial muscle movements such as: 
  • Chewing 
  • Lip smacking 
  • Tongue movement 
  • Frowning 
  • Blinking or eye movement 
• Sudden onset of weakness or discomfort, accompanied by fever, chills, sore throat, or mouth sores 
• Increased thirst, urination, and hunger, along with dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, blurred vision, dry skin, and weigh loss 
• Very stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, and agitation 

Call your doctor at once if any of the severe symptoms listed above are experienced. 

A severe drug reaction may manifest several weeks after initiating the use of Geodon, which can affect multiple body systems. Seek medical attention promptly if any of the following symptoms occur: 

• Skin rash 
• Fever 
• Swollen glands 
• Muscle aches 
• Significant weakness 
• Unusual bruising 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Allergic Reactions 

Though rare, a severe allergic reaction to Geodon may occur. Seek prompt medical attention if any of the following symptoms manifest: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling in the face or throat 

Severe skin reactions may also occur, marked by symptoms such as:  

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning in the eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple rash that spreads and leads to blistering and peeling 

The adverse effects of Geodon listed here are not exhaustive. Notify your doctor immediately if any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort. 

Cautions 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist of any allergies you may have, including allergies to ziprasidone, other medications, or any of the constituents present in Geodon. Request a list of the ingredients from your pharmacist to ensure you are aware of all constituents present in this medication. 

To ensure Geodon is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical history, specifically of: 

• Dementia 
• Seizures 
• Low white blood cell count 
• Difficulties in swallowing 
• Heart disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, irregular heartbeat) 
• Diabetes (including family history) 
• Obesity 
• Breathing troubles during sleep (such as sleep apnea) 

There are certain products that may interact with Geodon, including: 

• Dolasetron 
• Metoclopramide 
• Saquinavir 

To prevent such drug interactions, inform both your doctor and pharmacist of any current or anticipated usage of prescription or non-prescription medications, dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal products before initiating treatment with Geodon. 

Geodon may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you have a clear understanding of how this medication may affect you. 

Geodon may cause dizziness, light-headedness, and fainting when standing up quickly from a lying position. To prevent this, get out of bed slowly and rest your feet on the floor for a few minutes before standing up, especially when starting the medication. 

This medication may impair the body’s ability to cool down in high temperatures. Inform your doctor if you intend to engage in strenuous physical activity or be exposed to extreme heat. 

Geodon may increase blood sugar levels and worsen diabetes. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as increased thirst or urination. If you already have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar regularly and inform your doctor, who may need to adjust your treatment plan. 

Notify your physician if you are pregnant, particularly during the final trimester, intend to conceive, or are breastfeeding. 

If you become pregnant while taking Geodon, contact your doctor right away, as Geodon use during the last months of pregnancy may result in complications in newborns following delivery.  

The transfer of ziprasidone into breast milk is unknown. Due to the potential harm to the infant, the use of this medication during breastfeeding is not advised. Speak with your physician before nursing.