Rare Side Effects Of Geodon

Geodon is a brand name prescription medication containing ziprasidone. It is approved by the FDA to treat schizophrenia and the manic and mixed episode phases of bipolar disorder. It is also approved for use with other medications as maintenance treatment for bipolar disorder. Ziprasidone is administered as an oral capsule or tablet, or as an injection into the muscle. While the common side effects include fever, excessive tiredness, loss of strength, headache, dizziness, restlessness, vision problems, constipation, vomiting and stomach upset, rare side effects may also occur.

Fainting

Geodon use may lead to lowered blood pressure upon standing, and fainting, explains Pfizer, Inc., the drug's manufacturer. This is more likely with the initial doses or during a time of dosage increase.

Seizure

Rare side effects of ziprasidone include spastic muscles and seizure. It is possible to suffer harm due to a lengthy seizure or a fall when the seizure begins.

Heart Rhythm Abnormalities

The heart may develop a life-threatening abnormal rhythm or become enlarged, according to the drug's manufacturer. These changes may show up on an EKG, but not be noticeable to the individual, explains the "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide." The individual may have chest pain or a slow heart rate, and may suffer a stroke or a blood clot in a vein.

Cough

It is possible to develop a cough due to ziprasidone use. Some individuals complain of a runny nose, bleeding gums or spitting up of blood. Rarely, the platelet count falls, leading to a tendency to bleed easily and difficulty controlling bleeding. Ziprasidone users may also develop an eye hemorrhage.

Loss of Appetite

While it is more common to gain weight while taking Geodon, rarely an individual has a loss of appetite due to the drug. Jaundice may develop, manifested by yellowed skin and yellowing of the whites of the eyes.

Male Breast Enlargement

A man may notice breast enlargement, a condition known as gynecomastia. An erection of more than four hours is also possible, explains Drugs.com. This is an emergency condition that may have to be treated surgically.

Changes in Urination

Rarely, Geodon causes someone to void excessively at night. It is also possible to have an abnormally small volume of urine.

Lowered White Blood Cell Count

It is possible to have a lower than normal count of white blood cells while taking this medication. This can cause the individual to be especially susceptible to infection. Rarely, a type of anemia known as hypochromic anemia can develop. This can cause fatigue and a fast heart rate.