The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that approximately 5.7 million American adults have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive disorder, is a psychiatric illness characterized by extreme shifts in mood and energy. Along with psychotherapy, bipolar disorder is often treated with medications such as Geodon that are effective in controlling episodes of mania or depression.
Geodon Indications
Geodon (Ziprasidone) is a psychotropic (atypical antipsychotic) medication used in the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes of bipolar disorder. Geodon is also used in conjunction with lithium or valproate for maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder. Geodon is also prescribed as a treatment for schizophrenia, as indicated by Pfizer.
Administration
Geodon is available as capsules in 20, 40, 60, and 80 milligram doses to be administered twice a day by mouth. The drug should be taken at the same time each day and with food to optimize absorption, according to Pfizer.
Side Effects
The most common side effects for patients taking Geodon include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, headaches, weight gain, diarrhea, rash and constipation. Side effects can also be serious and include abnormal facial or bodily movements, irregular heartbeat, rash, fever, and confusion, as indicated by Pfizer.
Warnings
Geodon is not approved by the FDA for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis because it causes an increased risk of death due to infections (such as pneumonia) or cardiovascular reasons, such as heart failure. Consult with a physician before taking Geodon.
Fun Fact
Geodon was originally named Zeldox, but was rejected by the FDA due to similarities in spelling and pronunciation to two other drugs on the market, Zyvox and Zoladex.
