Geodon is a medicine that can be prescribed to treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in adults. This eMedTV Web page provides an overview of Geodon uses, effects, general dosing guidelines, and potential side effects.
Some of the most common Geodon side effects include drowsiness, headaches, and weight gain. This eMedTV Web page describes other common side effects of Geodon and also lists serious problems that should be reported to a doctor (such as anxiety).
This eMedTV article explains that while Geodon is used mainly to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, there are also some off-label Geodon uses (such as the treatment of Tourette syndrome or behavior problems in elderly people with dementia).
The recommended starting Geodon dosage for the treatment of schizophrenia is 20 mg twice a day. This part of the eMedTV library also offers Geodon dosing guidelines for the treatment of bipolar disorder, as well as some general tips on taking the drug.
When drugs like carbamazepine or cisapride are taken with Geodon, drug interactions can potentially occur. This eMedTV page lists other drugs that may lead to Geodon interactions and explains the possible effects of combining these drugs with Geodon.
Priapism is a rare but possible side effect of Geodon. As this eMedTV segment explains, there are many important Geodon warnings and precautions to be aware of, including other possible side effects that can occur in some people who take the drug.
Up to 10 percent of people who take Geodon experience weight gain. This eMedTV segment discusses Geodon and weight in more detail and offers some tips on how to deal with small, unexplained weight gain (such as eating heart-healthy foods).
Sexual side effects (such as ejaculation problems or impotence) may occur with the use of Geodon. This eMedTV Web page further discusses Geodon sexual side effects and describes what your doctor may recommend if they do occur.
It is possible to experience a dry mouth while taking Geodon. This article from the eMedTV Web site offers more information on Geodon and dry mouth, and provides a list of suggestions for dry mouth relief (such as using a humidifier at night).
Taking Geodon may increase your risk of developing diabetes or worsen preexisting diabetes. This eMedTV article offers more information on Geodon and diabetes, including an explanation of why the medication may cause the condition.
As this eMedTV page explains, the FDA classifies Geodon as a pregnancy Category C drug -- meaning that a pregnant woman may take it if its benefits outweigh any possible risks to her fetus. If you're on Geodon and pregnancy occurs, tell your doctor.
It is not known whether Geodon is passed through breast milk during breastfeeding. This eMedTV segment explores Geodon and breastfeeding in detail, noting in particular why it's important to talk to your doctor about your particular situation.
Symptoms of a Geodon overdose can include slurred speech, high blood pressure, and anxiety. This eMedTV Web page describes other signs of a Geodon overdose and explains how a healthcare provider may treat an overdose on Geodon.
As this eMedTV article explains, Geodon withdrawal symptoms can include insomnia, symptoms of schizophrenia, and symptoms of bipolar disorder. This page describes the steps your doctor may take to prevent withdrawals from Geodon.
Geodon is not yet available as a generic. This part of the eMedTV archives discusses how soon a generic Geodon drug could become available, as well as the dangers of buying so-called "generic Geodon" products that are currently available on the market.
It is generally not recommended that you combine alcohol and Geodon. As this eMedTV page explains, consuming alcohol during Geodon treatment can increase the chances and severity of several side effects, including low blood pressure and drowsiness.
Therapy and other medications can be used as Geodon alternatives. This eMedTV page provides a list of medication alternatives to Geodon (such as typical antipsychotics and mood stabilizers) and discusses how therapy can be used as a Geodon alternative.
