MedDataToolZiprasidone mesylate is a medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, including acute agitation in adults. It works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and behavior. The medication is given as an injection into the muscle, with a starting dose of 10 to 20 mg, and it can be administered up to a maximum of 40 mg per day, with doses of 10 mg given every two hours or 20 mg every four hours as needed. A key warning is that it should not be used in patients with a known history of heart problems, particularly those with a condition called QT prolongation, which can affect heart rhythm. Additionally, it should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this can increase the risk of serious side effects.
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Uses
- Treatment of schizophrenia.
- Acute treatment of bipolar manic episodes.
- Acute treatment of mixed episodes.
- Adjunct treatment for maintenance of bipolar disorder.
- Acute agitation in schizophrenic patients.
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Dosage
10–20 mg intramuscularly as needed.
Maximum of 40 mg per day. 10 mg every 2 hours if needed. 20 mg every 4 hours if needed.
Not recommended for patients already taking oral ziprasidone.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
somnolencerespiratory tract infectionheadachenauseaincreased mortality in elderly with dementia-related psychosis
Serious
QT prolongation
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
- Not approved for dementia-related psychosis.
- May prolong QT interval, increasing risk of serious heart issues.
- Caution with other drugs that prolong QT interval.
- Not recommended for patients taking MAOIs.
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Drug interactions
- Carbamazepinedecreases ziprasidone levelsCaution
- Ketoconazoleincreases ziprasidone levelsMonitor
- Serotonergic drugsrisk of serotonin syndromeCaution
- Levodopamay reduce effectivenessCaution
- Antihypertensive agentsmay enhance effectsCaution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).