Ziprasidone

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Ziprasidone is available as oral capsules to take by mouth. These are available in a variety of strengths.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• The use of Ziprasidone is meant for adults.

• It can also be administered to children, but only under the specific advice and supervision of a doctor.

Contraindications

• The use of Ziprasidone is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medication or any of its components.

• It should also not be used by patients who are at high risk of experiencing torsades de pointes, a specific type of abnormal heart rhythm.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Ziprasidone may interact with medicines known to prolong the QTc interval, such as Class 1A and Class III antiarrhythmic medications (like amiodarone and dofetilide), certain other antipsychotics (like thioridazine), and specific antibiotics (like gatifloxacin).

• The medicine should also be used cautiously with other centrally acting medicines like diazepam, as these may result in additive CNS effects.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Ziprasidone can lead to severe complications like neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a life-threatening condition characterised by fever, confusion, severe muscle stiffness, and fluctuations in blood pressure. If you suspect an overdose, consult a doctor immediately.

• In case of a missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor. Here are some tips to manage common side effects:

• For symptoms like nausea and vomiting, try taking the medicine after meals.

• If you experience dizziness or light-headedness, avoid sudden movements and rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.

• Ensure you stay well-hydrated to help alleviate constipation.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Ziprasidone may impair your alertness and motor coordination. Therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy after taking this medicine.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Consult your doctor before using Ziprasidone during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The safety of this medication for these conditions has not been fully established.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with cardiovascular conditions, as Ziprasidone can cause QT prolongation, should exercise caution while taking this medicine. Similarly, patients at risk for suicide or seizures also need to be careful while on this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to ensure overall health and wellbeing.

• Regular sleep patterns can contribute to better mental health.

• Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by a doctor.

• Avoid alcohol and tobacco as these can exacerbate negative symptoms and interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.

• Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions