Herbal Spotlight
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 Taking iloperidone (Fanapt)
Dear Patient,
Your health care provider has prescribed iloperidone for the treatment of your schizophrenia. This drug affects the dopamine and serotonin levels in your brain, which is thought to decrease symptoms of schizophrenia. The brand name of this drug is Fanapt.
How you'll take iloperidone
Take this drug by mouth twice daily. You may take it with or without food.
What to do if you miss a dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed dose. Don't try to make up doses. Don't take more than two doses per day.
What to do about side effects
Notify your health care provider if you experience side effects to this medication.
Common: dizziness, sleepiness, fast heart rate, dry mouth, nausea.
Less common: aggression, blurred vision, changes in blood pressure, diarrhea, fatigue, upper respiratory tract infection, nasal congestion, urinary incontinence, abdominal discomfort, muscle spasm or pain, weight changes, sexual dysfunction, tremor.
What you must know about other medications
and alcohol
There are many drugs that could cause serious problems if you combine them with this drug, including ketoconazole, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and dextromethorphan. Additionally, you may experience abnormal heart rhythms that could be fatal if this drug is combined with other drugs that alter heart rhythm. Mental changes may occur if you drink alcohol while taking this drug. Tell any health care provider who takes care of you that you're taking this drug.
Special directions
- Don't drive or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while on this drug.
- Your health care provider may monitor your blood pressure and various blood test results while you're on this drug.
- Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated. Stay out of the heat, avoid excessive exercise, and drink plenty of fluids.
Keep in mind
- It isn't known whether this drug affects an unborn baby. You should use contraceptive measures while you're on this drug. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, consult your health care provider.
- It's unknown how this drug could affect a nursing baby. Another method of feeding the baby should be used.
- Rise slowly, avoid hot showers, and use other precautions to avoid fainting when starting therapy.
- Notify your health care provider if you develop dizziness, fever, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, rigidity, or pain.
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