Geodon Alternatives (Cont.)

Therapy as a Geodon Alternative

It is unlikely that therapy alone can replace the need for medication in people who have bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. However, therapy can be an important part of a well-rounded treatment plan. Numerous studies have found that psychosocial treatments as part of an overall schizophrenia treatment plan can be very helpful. This therapy helps patients who are already stabilized on antipsychotic medication to deal with certain aspects of schizophrenia, such as difficulty with:
 
  • Communication
  • Motivation
  • Self-care
  • Work
  • Establishing and maintaining relationships with others.
     
As an addition to medication, psychosocial treatments -- including certain forms of psychotherapy (or "talk" therapy) -- are helpful in providing support, education, and guidance to people with bipolar disorder, as well as to their families. Studies have shown that psychosocial interventions can lead to increased mood stability, fewer hospitalizations, and improved functioning in several areas.
 
 

Other Medications

Fortunately, there are many medications available to treat bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. These medications can include:
 
Atypical Antipsychotics
Geodon is an atypical antipsychotic. Atypical antipsychotics are usually effective at treating schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It is thought that these newer antipsychotic medications may have fewer serious side effects than older antipsychotics (although studies have shown conflicting results). In addition to Geodon, these medications can include:
 
There is also a bipolar disorder medication (Symbyax®) that combines Zyprexa with fluoxetine (Prozac®), an antidepressant.
(Geodon Alternatives Continued: Page 3)

Pages:

Previous 1 2 3 Next

Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;