Ziprasidone

In Aotearoa New Zealand, ziprasidone is available as capsules. 

• The usual dose of ziprasidone is 40 milligrams twice a day.
• Some people may need higher doses of up to 80 milligrams twice a day.
• Always take your ziprasidone exactly as your doctor has told you.
• The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much ziprasidone to take, how often to take it and any special instructions.

• Take ziprasidone twice a day, in the morning and evening. Try taking your ziprasidone doses at the same times each day. It is best to take ziprasidone with food or just after food. Taking your capsule with food helps make it work better.
• Swallow the capsules whole, with a glass of water. Do not open the capsules. If you have problems swallowing ziprasidone capsules, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Read more about tips for swallowing tablets and capsules.  
• If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Don't take double the dose.
• Keep taking ziprasidone every day. It usually takes a few weeks to start working and it can take a few months before you feel the full benefits.
• Don't stop taking ziprasidone suddenly as your symptoms may return if stopped too early; talk to your doctor or nurse before stopping.

Here are some things to know when you're taking ziprasidone. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

• Avoid alcohol while you are taking ziprasidone, especially when you first start treatment. Alcohol can increase your risk of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
• Ziprasidone can interact with other medicines. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking including over the counter medicines, herbal and complementary medicines or recreational drugs.
• Ziprasidone may cause changes in your blood glucose level, cholesterol level and heart function. Your doctor will check your physical health – you may need to have your weight and blood pressure (BP) measured regularly. You may also need blood tests to check your kidney and liver function, and your cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
• Ziprasidone is best avoided by people with certain medical conditions, eg, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, depression and diabetes. Contact your doctor if you have, or develop, any of these conditions while taking it.
• Contact your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.

Like all medicines, ziprasidone can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.