Paliperidone

What is Paliperidone used for?

Paliperidone is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia (mental/mood disorder). It works by changing the effects of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

What is the recommended dosage of Paliperidone?

The dosage of Paliperidone prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.

Paliperidone can be taken with or without food.

What if you miss a dose of Paliperidone?

If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Paliperidone medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.

What if you overdose on Paliperidone?

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

What other drugs could interact with Paliperidone

• Amiodarone
• Carbamazepine
• Chloroquine
• Clarithromycin
• Droperidol
• Erythromycin
• Levodopa
• Levofloxacin
• Levomethadyl
• Moxifloxacin
• Pentamidine

It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Paliperidone.

Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Paliperidone, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.

Paliperidone can interact with blood pressure medications, antidepressants, antibiotics, and heart rhythm medications, and narcotic medications.

Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the side effects of Paliperidone?

Like other medicines, Paliperidone can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Paliperidone are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Paliperidone cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Paliperidone develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Paliperidone can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, dizziness, weight gain, and cough. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Paliperidone.

What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Paliperidone?

Is it possible for me to take Paliperidone with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Paliperidone?
What are the possible drug interactions of Paliperidone?
How will Paliperidone work in my body?
How should Paliperidone be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Paliperidone drug interactions and side effects?

Note

The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Paliperidone is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.