Geodon (Ziprasidone) is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder). This medication can decrease hallucinations and help you to think more clearly and positively about yourself, feel less agitated, and take a more active part in everyday life.

Ziprasidone belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. Swallow the capsules whole.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Before taking ziprasidone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Ziprasidone may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that need medical attention right away. The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may cause QT prolongation. Before using ziprasidone, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take and if you have any of the following conditions: certain heart problems (heart failure, recent heart attack, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG), family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death).

Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Geodon can cause some side effects including:

- Drowsiness

- Dizziness

- Lightheadedness

- Weakness

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Runny nose and cough may occur

If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

- Difficulty swallowing

- Muscle spasms

- Shaking (tremor)

- Mental/mood changes (such as restlessness)

- Vision changes

- Interrupted breathing during sleep.

What if I missed a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store Medicines Safely

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Can I take Geodon with other medications? 

There are some medications that may be unsafe to use when taking Geodon, and there are some medicines that can affect how well GEODON works. While you are on Geodon, check with your doctor before starting any new prescription or over-the-counter medications, including natural/herbal remedies.

What should I avoid while taking Geodon?

- Before taking Geodon, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. It is advised that you don't breastfeed an infant if you are taking Geodon 

- Because Geodon can cause sleepiness, be careful when operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle

- Since medications of the same drug class as Geodon may interfere with the ability of the body to adjust to heat, it is best to avoid situations involving high temperature or humidity 

- It is best to avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while taking Geodon