FANAPT (ILOPERIDONE)

Fanapt Description

Fanapt or generic Iloperidone is prescribed as an atypical antipsychotic drug to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations, unorganized thoughts, and delusions. Atypical meds tend to exhibit fewer side effects, have a better functional capacity, and are more effective in treatment-resistant patients with schizophrenia. This mental disorder is thought to be due to an imbalance of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Fanapt Can Balance Neurotransmitters to Reduce Schizophrenia Symptoms

Fanapt appears to work on two of these neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin, that are partly responsible for regulating your moods and behavior. When taken as instructed, Fanapt works to block receptors to reduce the amount of active dopamine and serotonin in your brain. Having an excess of these brain chemicals is thought to be the reason for delusions and hallucinations.

By restoring the chemical balance, people with schizophrenia are able to cope better with their feelings and emotions so they can function throughout the day. There is no cure for schizophrenia, but treatment with Fanapt can make it possible for you to work, go to school, and socialize.

Some Symptoms of Schizophrenia Explained

Although the symptoms of schizophrenia can vary from one individual to the next, delusions are characteristic. These can cause you to see, hear, and feel things that you believe to be real. Your doctor may talk about the positive and negative symptoms. This does not mean that some are good and others are bad. Positive symptoms are things that are “new” to your personality or how you experience life because of being a schizophrenic, such as hallucinations, odd behavior or speech, and not being able to keep your thoughts straight.

Negative symptoms refer to things that are lost from your personality and how you once were. You have no interest in taking care of yourself, succeeding at anything, or you have a difficult time focusing and become confused easily.

Before You Take Fanapt

It is not recommended to take Fanapt if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. If you are nursing a baby, you may be instructed to bottle feed with formula as it has shown that Fanapt is excreted in breast milk. Your doctor can advise you on effective birth control methods while taking Fanapt to avoid any health risks to an unborn baby.

Tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any current OTC or Rx drugs you take, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements so it can be determined if Fanapt is the right medication for you.

Fanapt Precautions and Recommendations

You should not drive, operate machinery, or perform any tasks that are considered unsafe until you know how Fanapt will affect you. Do not change the dosage of Fanapt without first talking to your doctor. Be patient. It may take several weeks before you notice any improvements while taking Fanapt. Do not consume alcohol while taking Fanapt as it could increase your risk of side effects.

Possible Side Effects of Fanapt

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Weight gain