Negative Effects of Geodon

People with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may benefit from the prescription medicine Geodon® (ziprasidone hydrochloride). The antipsychotic drug is approved to control symptoms of these mental illnesses and to prevent relapses.
 
Although most people respond well to this medication, there are some potentially negative effects of Geodon that you should be aware of before starting treatment. A number of side effects have been reported with this drug, including indigestion or heartburn, weight gain, constipation, and drowsiness. In most cases, these side effects are mild and do not require medical attention.
 
A number of potentially serious problems have also been reported with Geodon. For example, the medication could increase the risk of seizures, cause a life-threatening irregular heart rhythm called QT prolongation, and cause an increase in blood sugar levels (which can lead to diabetes).
 
(Click Geodon Side Effects and Geodon Warnings and Precautions to learn about the other negative effects of Geodon, including a list of other potential side effects.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;