| Common Brands | Saphris |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Atypical antipsychotic |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Asenapine sublingual is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat certain mental disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The drug is different because it is administered sublingually, or under the tongue, allowing it to avoid the digestive system and reach the bloodstream faster. Asenapine functions by changing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, which stabilizes mood and thought in patients with psychiatric disorders.
Take asenapine sublingual tablets exactly as prescribed. General steps for use include the following:
Place tablet under your tongue: Place the tablet from the blister pack directly under your tongue.
Let it dissolve: Do not chew or swallow the tablet. Let it dissolve completely under your tongue. It should take a few minutes to dissolve.
Avoid eating or drinking: Do not eat or drink for at least 10 minutes after taking asenapine to ensure maximum absorption.
Follow your doctor’s instructions: Always take the medication at the prescribed times and avoid altering the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
Asenapine acts via its antagonist action on different receptors of neurotransmitters in the brain, mainly dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters generally play a key role in mood regulation, thought, and behavior. In detail:
Dopamine Receptor Antagonism: Asenapine serves as an antagonist at different types of dopamine receptors, particularly D2 receptors. This blocks those receptors and reduces the symptoms of psychosis which include hallucinations, delusions, and much disorganized thinking, which are common with schizophrenia.
Asenapine influences serotonin receptors 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C. Serotonin is the primary neurotransmitter affecting mood, sleep, and appetite regulation. Thus, serotonin receptor modulation by asenapine could stabilize the mood and help diminish agitation and impulsiveness often observed in bipolar disorder.
Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blockade is another activity of asenapine; such blockade is known to reduce restlessness and drowsiness in many patients.
Like all drugs, asenapine can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include:
Serious side effects include:
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A life-threatening condition caused by high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction.
Tardive Dyskinesia: A disorder causing involuntary movements of the face and limbs, especially after long-term use of antipsychotics.
Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin levels, resulting in symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, increased body temperature, and muscle rigidity.
Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis: Asenapine may increase the risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, and its use in this population is generally not recommended.
Risk of suicidal thoughts: Antipsychotics, including asenapine, have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Heart conditions: Asenapine can lead to heart rhythm anomalies; therefore, this medication requires caution among patients with heart diseases or arrhythmias
Asenapine has the potential to interact with several other drugs. These include:
CYP450 Enzyme Inhibitors: Asenapine is metabolized by the CYP450 enzyme system, particularly CYP1A2. Drugs that inhibit this enzyme, such as fluvoxamine or ciprofloxacin, can increase asenapine’s levels in the body, raising the risk of side effects.
CNS Depressants: Taking asenapine with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids will enhance sedative effects and increase the chance of respiratory depression, sedation, or coma.
Other Antipsychotics or Antidepressants: Combining asenapine with other antipsychotics or medicines that affect serotonin (for example, SSRIs) will increase the chances of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition.
Dosage of asenapine depends on the type of condition for which a patient is taking the medication:
It is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions closely and adjust the dose only under medical supervision.
Asenapine is a prescription-only drug. It is usually prescribed by a psychiatrist or mental health specialist. A proper assessment of the patient’s medical history and psychiatric condition must be done before starting treatment with asenapine to ensure that it is an appropriate choice for their needs. Regular follow-up appointments are also necessary to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of the medication.
Asenapine Sublingual is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, administered by placing the tablet under the tongue for quick absorption.
Asenapine influences neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, helping to stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of psychosis.
It’s primarily prescribed for schizophrenia and the manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
Place the tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. Do not swallow, chew, or eat for at least 10 minutes after taking it.
Dosage varies depending on individual needs and conditions but typically starts at 5 mg, which may be adjusted by a doctor based on response and tolerance.
Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain. It’s important to report severe or unusual side effects to your healthcare provider.
Yes, weight gain is a potential side effect, so monitoring weight and diet is advised while on this medication.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided, as they can affect the metabolism of the medication.
It is advised to limit or avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of side effects like sedation and dizziness.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double up on doses.
Asenapine is not considered addictive, but it should only be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
You should not stop taking this medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms or symptom relapse.
Serious risks can include an increased chance of cerebrovascular adverse events, particularly in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
It’s contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Asenapine or to any of the ingredients in the formulation.
Safety and efficacy in children and adolescents under the age of 18 have not been established, so it should be used cautiously in this population.
Yes, Asenapine can interact with various medications, including other central nervous system depressants, so always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.
If you experience severe side effects such as seizures, fainting, or signs of allergic reaction (like rash, itching, or swelling), seek immediate medical attention.
Store it in a cool, dry place at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
Asenapine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus; consult your doctor.
Regular follow-up appointments are necessary for monitoring efficacy and side effects, typically every few weeks initially, then less frequently as determined by your doctor.
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