This prescription drug is approved for the treatment of
bipolar disorder and
schizophrenia. Although it is not entirely known how Geodon works, it is known that it blocks or lessens the effects of several chemicals in the brain. These brain chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia or
bipolar disorder.
In previous clinical studies of Geodon for the treatment of schizophrenia, people taking the medication experienced improvements in their schizophrenia symptoms (including hallucinations and suspiciousness), compared to those not taking it. Longer studies also showed that the medication can help keep symptoms from returning.
Previous clinical studies have also shown the drug to be effective for
bipolar disorder treatment. In these studies, the drug was effective at treating episodes of mania or mixed episodes (which involve symptoms of both mania and
depression).
(Click Geodon to find out what forms and strengths are available for Geodon, for information on when and how to take the drug, and to learn about possible side effects of this medication.)
