Geodon (Ziprasidone)

GEODON (ZIPRASIDONE) (Called Zeldox in Canada)

About Geodon

Geodon is an atypical antipsychotic drug prescribed to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression). Atypical (second generation) antipsychotics indicate that their pharmacological profile is different than the older antipsychotic drugs that used to be prescribed and they are much more effective and cause less side effects. Geodon is not a cure for either of these mental disorders, but you can start to take your life back and deal with everyday situations better.

Geodon Can Help to Balance Your Brain Chemicals

When taken as prescribed, Geodon (called Zeldox in Canada) is believed to block dopamine and serotonin receptors in order to balance brain chemicals and restore your moods and actions. Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters that relay signals between nerve cells in your brain telling your lungs to breathe, heart to beat, and stomach to digest.

If there is an imbalance of serotonin your moods can become unstable and not enough dopamine can cause you to feel depressed. Geodon or generic Ziprasidone works to correct the balance of these chemicals so you are not feeling sad, irritable, or experiencing hallucinations. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Geodon

Schizophrenia has no known single cause but it seems that genetics and some biological factors can contribute to why certain individuals are more vulnerable to this debilitating mental illness. Bipolar disorder involves mood swings from being very low and irritable to an excessive sense of well-being which can last for weeks at a time. Both of these mental conditions can destroy relationships, friendships, marriages, and cost you your job unless you seek help. Geodon can help set things in the right direction, but you also must be willing to undergo therapy to learn how deal with your condition.

Before Taking Geodon

If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding, ask your doctor before taking Geodon if it may be harmful to your unborn or nursing baby. Tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and provide information about any OTC and Rx drugs you currently take. Combining Geodon with certain medications can produce serious side effects or change how it works in your body.

Precautions and Recommendations for Geodon

You should be patient when starting Geodon as it can several weeks before you notice any change in your moods or behavior. You should not consume alcohol while you are taking Geodon as it can intensify some side effects, such as drowsiness or lightheadedness. Do not drive or perform unsafe tasks until you know how your body will react with Geodon. Keep all meds out of children’s reach and never share them with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Geodon

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Weight gain
• Loss of appetite