Iloperidone is a medication that recently gained FDA approval for the treatment of certain adult conditions such as schizophrenia. Find out about potential side effects and cautions of using this medication
Iloperidone is an antipsychotic that is used in the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. This medication is marketed under the brand name Fanapt. It is not known exactly how Iloperidone works, but it is believed to affect certain brain substances.
This medication is not intended to be used to treat mental problems caused by dementia in elderly patients, as the risk of death may be increased. Most deaths associated with this risk are attributed heart problems or infections. If you have any history of heart problems such as the regular heartbeat, Long QT syndrome, recent heart attack, or if you have liver disease you should discuss this with your doctor before taking this medication. Please tell your doctor if you are taking certain anti arrhythmic medications (medications to control the heart rhythm) such as amiodarone, procainamide, quinidine, sotalol, if you take methadone, pentamidine, a phenothiazine, quinolones, or any medication that may influence the heart rate.
How to Use Iloperidone
Iloperidone is taken by mouth with or without food. It may take several weeks for your symptoms to improve after you begin taking this medication. During this time do not change or alter the dose of the medication without consulting your doctor. Taking extra doses will not make the medication work quicker and may increase the risk of side effects.
It is important to understand that the iloperidone may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting and that alcohol, hot weather, exercise and fever can intensify these events. You should stand or sit up slowly, and lie or sit down at the first sign of dizziness. Heatstroke can occur if you become overheated while you are taking this medication.
Side Effects of Iloperidone
Some medications may increase the side effects of iloperidone. These medications are fluoxetine, paroxetine, clarithromycin, itraconazole, or ketoconazole.
Iloperidone is taken by mouth with or without food. It may take several weeks for your symptoms to improve after you begin taking this medication. During this time do not change or alter the dose of the medication without consulting your doctor. Taking extra doses will not make the medication work quicker And may increase the risk of side effects.
It is important to understand that the iloperidone may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting and that alcohol, hot weather, exercise and fever can intensify these events. You should stand or sit up slowly, and lie or sit down at the first sign of dizziness. Heatstroke can occur if you become overheated while you are taking his medication.
It is possible for iloperidone to raise your blood glucose levels, This can make you feel confused,sleepy, or thirsty. Other symptoms include flushing rapid breathing, and a fruity odor to the breath.These symptoms should be reported to your Dr. immediately.
Iloperidone can cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome which is a possibly fatal syndrome with symptoms that include stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal thoughts, irregular heartbeat and sweating. Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
Some patients may develop uncontrollable muscle movements especially of the face and jaws while taking the iloperidone. This event is more likely to happen in elderly female patients. The chances for this side effect are greater with higher dosages and long use of the medication. However this does not mean the side effects will not occur with lower dosages or short term use.
References
Condition. “Iloperidone Facts and Comparisons at Drugs.com.” Drugs.com | Prescription Drugs - Information, Interactions & Side Effects. 5 Aug. 2009. 24 Aug. 2009 <https://www.drugs.com/cdi/iloperidone
