Prescription Drugs
 contains or is another name for this drug.
print Print
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ziprasidone (zi pray' si done)
Other names: Geodon
Warning Important Warning
Studies have shown that older adults with dementia (a brain disorder that affects the ability to ... Full Alert
Text Label
Text minus
Text plus

Why is this medication prescribed?

Ziprasidone is used to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions). It is also used to treat episodes of mania (frenzied, abnormally excited or irritated mood) or mixed episodes (symptoms of mania and depression that happen together) in patients with bipolar disorder (manic depressive disorder; a disease that causes episodes of depression, episodes of mania, and other abnormal moods). Ziprasidone is in a class of medications called atypical antipsychotics. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the brain.

How should this medication be used?

Ziprasidone comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken twice a day with food. Take ziprasidone at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ziprasidone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may start you on a low dose of ziprasidone and gradually increase your dose.

Ziprasidone may help control your symptoms but will not cure your condition. Continue to take ziprasidone even if you feel well. Do not stop taking ziprasidone without talking to your doctor.

Are there other uses for this medicine?

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

  • Geodon®
Last Revised January 04, 2007
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
This information being provided is copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., ASHP, Bethesda, Maryland.
©2009. All Rights Reserved.
News and Hot Topics
Order Your Prescription