Geodon Side Effects
Summary
The most common side effects that have been reported with the use of Geodon (ziprasidone) include restlessness, uncontrollable body movements, vomiting, rashes, hives, dizziness and drowsiness. It is important to contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms persist or get worse.
Common Geodon Side Effects
There are a few side effects which have been reported by patients who have made use of Geodon. These include, but may not be limited to:
- Doziness and Excessive tiredness or sleepiness
- Restlessness
- Rashes
- Abnormal muscle movements
- Coughing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
Although the abovementioned side effects may not be serious, it is important to monitor them and ensure that the patient advises their doctor if they experience any of them. If any of the symptoms worsen, it is important to contact a doctor immediately. It is also important for the patient to refrain from consuming alcohol while using Geodon.
Serious Geodon Side Effects
While not every patient may experience an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients found in Geodon, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if any of the following side effects are experienced:
- Swelling of the throat, face, neck, lips or tongue
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Fever
- Erection in men that last for longer than 4 hours
- Tremors
- Irregular heartbeat
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Increased urination or thirst
- Sores inside the mouth or on the lips
- Weight gain
- Pneumonia
- Nose bleeds
- Gout
- Eczema
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Anemia
- Dry eyes
Side Effects in Children
Geodon is only recommended for children who are 10 years and older and has been shown to cause fewer side effects in them than traditional antipsychotic medications. It is important for children who are using Geodon to be monitored carefully for any side effects which may occur while using the medication.
The most common side effects that are experienced by children include nausea, weight gain, runny nose, and the risk of developing diabetes, tremors, sedation and irregular heart rhythms which can be fatal in some cases. If the child experiences any of these side effects, it is important to contact a doctor immediately so that alternative treatments can be discussed.
Elderly Patients with Dementia
If Geodon is prescribed for an elderly patient, it is important for them to be monitored carefully by their doctor because it can cause heart attacks. Cases of weakness and coughing which have led to pneumonia have also been reported.
Elderly patients who suffer from dementia should also not use Geodon because of the fact that it can result in irritability and further agitation. IN most cases however, Geodon should not be prescribed to elderly patients, especially those suffering from any form of mental illness.
Preexisting Conditions
It is always important to disclose your full medical history to your doctor if Geodon is prescribed for you to use. This is because certain pharmaceutical as well as herbal medications may cause unpleasant or even fatal side effects if they are combined with Geodon. Patients who are pregnant, wanting to conceive or who are breastfeeding should not make use of Geodon. Those suffering from heart conditions should not use this medication.
If the patient suffers from Alzheimer’s, liver disease, nervous system conditions or obesity, it is important to inform your doctor of these conditions before using Geodon. Patients who are diabetic also need to inform their doctor before making use of Geodon.
Other Medications
It is always important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about any other medications you may be using if Geodon has been prescribed to you. The following types of medication have been reported to cause adverse reactions when used in conjunction with Geodon:
- Antibiotic medications (Levaquin, Avelox, Pentam or NebuPent)
- Other medications which are used to treat psychiatric disorders (Mellaril, Thorazine or Clozaril)
- Migraine medications such as Zomig or Imitrex
- Medications which treat nausea and vomiting (Zofran or Anzemet)
- Anti-malaria medications (Lariam or Arelan)
- Arsenic trioxide (Trisenox)
- Narcotic medications such as Dolophine or Methadose
- Heart rhythm medications such as Cordarone, Corvert, Betapace, Rythmol or Quin-G.
Patients who make use of Geodon need to ensure that they follow the dosage instructions as set out by their doctor. This will ensure that they receive the maximum benefit from the medication. Patients who are diabetic need to ensure that they check their blood sugar levels on a regular basis while using Geodon. If any unpleasant or unusual side effects are experienced, it is important for the patient to contact their doctor or healthcare provider immediately.
