About ziprasidone hcl
Atypical antipsychotic
Used for
- Schizophrenia
- Acute manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder
- Maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder with lithium or valproate
Usual adult dose
Schizophrenia: usually 20 mg twice daily with food, adjusted as needed. Bipolar mania: usually 40 mg twice daily with food, adjusted as needed.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness or dizziness
- Nausea or constipation
- Restlessness or movement problems
- Changes in heart rhythm
Important warnings
- Can prolong the QT interval and rarely cause dangerous heart rhythms.
- Take each dose with food for reliable absorption.
- May cause tardive dyskinesia or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
- Can cause dizziness on standing; use caution with driving.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when clinically necessary; late-pregnancy exposure may cause newborn movement or withdrawal symptoms.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment; discuss risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- Avoid other medicines that prolong the QT interval.
- Carbamazepine can lower ziprasidone levels.
- Ketoconazole can increase ziprasidone levels.
- Alcohol and sedating medicines may worsen drowsiness.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.