Description  

Geodon (ziprasidone) is an antipsychotic drug. It works in the brain to treat schizophrenia by altering the impact of brain neurotransmitters. Geodon medication rebalances dopamine and serotonin to improve thinking, behavior, and mood. 

What is Geodon used for?  

• In adults and children over the age of ten, this is used to treat schizophrenia and the manic features of bipolar disorder. This medication helps patients think more positively and clearly about themselves, reduces feelings of agitation, and takes a more active part in daily living. 
• Geodon is used to aid restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain. 

Geodon Dosage

Schizophrenia 

• Capsules should be taken twice a day with meals at first, at a dose of 20 mg each time.

Bipolar I Disorder  

• Treatment for Manic or Mixed Episodes in the Short Term 
• Dose Selection-Oral ziprasidone should be given twice a day with meals at a starting dose of 40 mg. 

Acute Agitation Treatment in Schizophrenia

Dosing via intramuscular injection 

• The suggested dose ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg, given as needed up to a maximum of 40 mg per day. Doses of 10 mg are given every two hours, and doses of 20 mg are given every four hours, up to a total of 40 mg each day.

Direction  

• This medication is taken by mouth in capsule form. 
• This should be taken with meals.  
• You may need frequent blood tests to assess kidney or liver function while using this drug. 
• If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely while taking this medicine.
• To maximize benefit, use it on a regular basis. Before you run out of medicine, have your prescription renewed.

Geodon Side Effects 

 The following are some of the most common side effects: 

• Drowsiness, weakness; 
• Headache; 
• Nausea; 
• Trouble swallowing; 
• Weight gain; 
• Feeling restless or unable to sit still; 
• Tremors, involuntary muscle movements; 
• Vision problems; or 
• Runny nose, new or worsening cough.

Caution  

• If you have an abnormal cardiac rhythm, a history of long QT syndrome, uncontrolled heart failure, recently had a heart attack, or are allergic to ziprasidone, you should not take this medication. 
• Some drugs should not be taken along with ziprasidone because they may induce undesirable side effects. 
• If you develop chest discomfort, severe dizziness, or a rapid or pounding heartbeat, stop taking this and notify your doctor straight once. These symptoms might indicate a significant cardiac rhythm issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

-What is Geodon generic name? 

The generic name of this medication is Ziprasidone.

-How does this medication work?

Geodon is thought to block dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, balancing brain chemicals and restoring emotions and activities when taken as directed.