Saphris: Uses, Side Effects, and Dosage

Saphris (asenapine) is a medication used to treat mental health disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

What is Saphris?

Saphris belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics which help to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar 1 disorder by balancing the chemical messengers in your brain.

Uses of Saphris

• Schizophrenia: Saphris is used for both acute and maintenance treatment of schizophrenia symptoms. Research shows that it is effective in improving positive and negative symptoms of the condition.
• Bipolar 1 disorder: Saphris is effective for treating manic episodes that occur in people who have bipolar 1 disorder. It is also used to prevent the recurrence of manic or mixed episodes.

Before Taking Saphris

• Disclose any other medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking to your doctor.
• People with a history of heart and liver diseases need to take this medication with added caution.

Precautions and Contraindications

• Saphris is not approved for treating people who have dementia-related psychosis.
• People with a history of asenapine allergy cannot take Saphris.
• Saphris should only be used during pregnancy if the benefit clearly outweighs the potential risks.

Other Atypical Antipsychotics

• Clozaril (clozapine)
• Abilify (aripiprazole)
• Invega (paliperidone)
• Zyprexa (olanzapine)

Saphris Dosage

• Schizophrenia: 5 milligrams twice daily, increased to 10 milligrams twice a day in certain cases.
• Bipolar I disorder: 5 to 10 milligrams twice daily, increased to as high as 20 milligrams daily for children between the ages of 10 and 17.

How to Take and Store Saphris

• Saphris is a sublingual tablet, placed under the tongue to dissolve.
• Do not swallow it whole, break it up or chew it.
• Store the medication in a cool dry place away from children and pets.

Side Effects of Saphris

• Common: Sleepiness, dizziness, muscle stiffness, weight gain, nausea, restlessness, numbness of the mouth.
• Severe: High blood sugar, seizures, difficulty swallowing, lowered blood counts.

Warnings and Interactions

• Saphris may enhance the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
• Saphris may increase the risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).
• Do not stop using Saphris without consulting your doctor.
• Saphris might make it easier to become dehydrated and overheated.

Conclusion

Saphris is a medication used to treat mental health disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is important to take Saphris as prescribed by your doctor and to be aware of the potential side effects. If you have any questions or concerns about Saphris, talk to your doctor.