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Asenapine (sublingual)

Name of generic: asenapine (sublingual) (sublingual) A-SEN-a-peen [a-SEN-a-peen]
Name of the brand: Saphris
Dosage form: sublingual tablet (10 mg, 2.5 mg and 5 mg).
Drug class:
atypical antipsychotics

What is Asenapine?

Asenapine is an antipsychotic drug that is prescribed for treating schizophrenia in adults as well as bipolar type I disorder in children and adults who are 10 years old.Asenapine can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.

Side effects of Asenapine

Seek medical attention immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms warning signs of an allergic response such as hyper-beats, hives, feeling lightheaded, wheezing or breathing difficulty, or swelling of your lips, face, tongue, throat, or face,Long-term use or high doses of asenapine may cause serious movement disorders, which may not be reverseable. The longer you are using asenapine, the more likely you will be affected, particularly when you're a female or a senior.

Asenapine could cause serious adverse reactions. Contact your physician immediately if you are suffering from:

  • Uncontrolled muscle movements in your facial muscles (chewing or smacking your lips, mouth movement, frowning, blinking, or eye movements);
  • Ulcers, blisters, swelling, or peeling in your mouth;
  • An euphoric feeling, similar to you're passing out;
  • Breast pain or swelling; discharge from the nipple;
  • Low white blood cell count low white blood cell counts low white blood cell counts—chills, fever, and mouth sores. Skin open sores, sore throat, cough, trouble breathing;
  • Nervous system reactions that are severe, very rigid (rigid) muscles with high fever, sweating, as well as confusion and quick or uneven heartbeats as if you're about to faint

Common adverse reactions to asenapine include:

  • Dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness;
  • Being agitated or uneasy;
  • Numbness or tingling in your mouth
  • Muscle stiffness, jerky muscle movements;
  • Nausea and altered taste perception;
  • Increased appetite and weight gain.

This list does not encompass all potential adverse reactions; others could arise. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. Report any adverse reactions directly to the FDA by calling their hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Asenapine is not permitted for use by older adults suffering from dementia-related psychosis.

Before you take this drug

Asenapine should not be used when you are allergic to this medication or are:

  • Serious liver disease that is severe

Asenapine could cause an increase in the likelihood of dying in people with dementia-related psychosis. However, it isn't recommended for use in this situation.

Speak to your doctor if you were ever diagnosed with:

  • Heart-related problems;
  • Hypertension;
  • A heart attack and stroke
  • Diabetic (asenapine could increase the blood sugar level);
  • A seizure;
  • Liver disease;
  • Breast cancer;
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Parkinson's disease;
  • Low white blood cell (wbc) counts
  • Long qt syndrome (in the case of you or someone in your family)

Antipsychotic medication taken during the last three months of pregnancy could cause breathing and feeding issues, as well as withdrawal symptoms in the infant.When pregnant, immediately notify your physician.Don't stop asenapine until you have the advice of your physician.It might not be safe to breastfeed when taking asenapine. Talk to your doctor regarding any risks.Asenapine is not recommended for a child who is less than 10 years old. Asenapine isn't recommended for people suffering from schizophrenia under the age of 18.

How to take Asenapine?

Asenapine is typically taken two times a day. Follow the instructions on the label of your prescription and also read the medication guide or instructions sheets. Follow the medication precisely as directed.Be sure to read and adhere to any instructions for use that are included in your medication. Consult your physician or pharmacist for clarification if you are unsure of these directions.Place the tablet in the blister pack until you're in a position to take the medication. Use your hands that are dry to gently lift the tablet from its packaging and place it on your tongue.Do not ingest the tablet. It will dissolve under your tongue without chewing.Don't eat or drink anything for 10 minutes following the time the tablet is dissolved.Asenapine could result in excessive blood sugar (hyperglycemia). The symptoms include thirst and urination. It can also cause hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath, odour, dry skin, and blurry vision. If you're taking insulin, test the levels of your blood sugar regularly on a daily basis while taking asenapine.Your doctor should monitor your progress while you're taking asenapine.Store it at room temperature, free from both heat and moisture.

What happens if I miss the dose?

You should take the medication as quickly as you are able, but do not take your missed dosage if you are close to the time of the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Beware of becoming dehydrated or overheated during exercise or in hot temperatures. Take plenty of water, particularly in hot weather or while exercising. It is much easier to get extremely hot and dehydrated when you take asenapine.Avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until you understand the extent to which asenapine can affect your health. Your reaction may be affected. Do not get up too quickly from a lying or sitting position, as you could get dizzy.

Interaction with other drug

Asenapine in combination with other medications that cause you to sleep or cause breathing problems can result in dangerous negative side effects or even the death of a person. Ask your doctor before taking an opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medication for anxiety or seizures.Other medications can affect asenapine. This includes prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your physician the medicines you are currently taking and any medication you begin or stop taking.