What is Ziprasidone 20mg used for?
Ziprasidone 20mg is an antipsychotic medication prescribed to treat psychoses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression). This medication treats symptoms of schizophrenia such as loss of interest in life, lack of motivation, hallucinations, social withdrawal, and unusual thinking. It also treats episodes of depression and episodes of mania such as abnormal moods. It works by blocking the effects of mood-regulating chemicals in the brain. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
What is the recommended dosage of Ziprasidone?
The dosage of Ziprasidone prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.
Ziprasidone should be taken with food.
What if you miss a dose of Ziprasidone?
If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Ziprasidone 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 Ziprasidone?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Ziprasidone, seek medical attention immediately.
What other drugs could interact with Ziprasidone 20mg?
- Carbamazepine
- Clarithromycin
- Cisapride
- Haloperidol
- Levodopa
- Telithromycin
It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Ziprasidone.
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 Ziprasidone, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.
Ziprasidone can interact with Parkinson’s disease medicines, narcotic pain medicines, diuretics, and antibiotics.
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 Ziprasidone 20mg?
Like other medicines, Ziprasidone 20mg can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Ziprasidone 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 Ziprasidone cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Ziprasidone develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.
Ziprasidone can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, anxiety, loss of appetite, dizziness, weight gain, mild skin rash and muscle pain. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Ziprasidone.
What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Ziprasidone 20mg?
Is it possible for me to take Ziprasidone with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Ziprasidone?
What are the possible drug interactions of Ziprasidone?
How will Ziprasidone work in my body?
How should Ziprasidone be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Ziprasidone 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 Ziprasidone is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.