Geodon

[Heidi Henkel]

Does anyone know anything about Geodon?  What is it for, what are the effects, especially long term, what long term studies, if any, have been done, does anyone have any direct personal experience with it, etc?   What health problems does it cause?  How long has it been on the market?

[Heidi Henkel]

Does it, like other atypical antipsychotics, cause brain damage?

[Phil Strong]

Hi Heidi

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the antipsychotic medication Geodon (ziprasidone) in early 2001 for the treatment of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. In 2004, the FDA extended its approval to include Geodon as a monotherapy in the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes in bipolar I disorder, with or without psychotic features. In November 2009, Geodon received FDA approval for a new use - as maintenance treatment for bipolar disorder when used with lithium or valproate (Depakote, etc.).

Same website states -

Geodon Side Effects

You should contact your doctor immediately if you faint or pass out, or if you feel any change in the way your heart is beating while taking Geodon. This is extremely important.

Common Geodon side effects include:
•Tiredness or sleepiness
•Nausea
•Constipation
•Dizziness
•Restlessness
•Diarrhea
•Rash
•Cough/runny nose
•Abnormal muscle movements, such as tremor, shuffling, uncontrolled involuntary movements.

I'm sure the insert also lists just about every other possible side effect, in common with all other antipsychotics.

Long term effects/ studies - good question!

Best wishes

Phil in UK