Fanapt: Details on Side Effects, Application, Pricing, and Further Information

Fanapt: Details on Side Effects, Application, Pricing, and Further Information

Fanapt is a prescription drug, in the form of an oral tablet, that is approved by the FDA for treating schizophrenia in adults. This medication primarily gets prescribed when other treatments for schizophrenia aren't effective or can't be utilized due to certain factors. The two main reasons for this are:

1. The use of Fanapt is linked with a potential risk of QT prolongation, a type of abnormal heart rhythm. Other treatments may not carry this risk.
2. Fanapt requires starting at a low dose and then gradually increasing it as per the doctor's instructions. This process might cause a delay of 1 to 2 weeks in experiencing the medication's effects on managing schizophrenia symptoms. Other treatments may start showing results more quickly.

Drug specifics

Below, you will find key information about Fanapt:

• Drug category: Second-generation atypical antipsychotic
• Drug form: Oral tablet
• Generic alternative: Not available yet
• Requires prescription: Yes
• Controlled substance: No
• FDA approval year: 2009

Generic Fanapt

At present, Fanapt is only available as a brand-name medication and not in generic form.

A generic drug is an identical version of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Generics are usually more affordable than brand-name drugs.

Fanapt side effects

Fanapt can cause mild or serious side effects. Below are some of the significant side effects that might occur during Fanapt usage, which do not include all possible side effects.

For more information about Fanapt's potential side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide tips for managing any side effects that might be concerning or bothersome.

Mild side effects

Below is an incomplete list of mild side effects of Fanapt. For further details on other mild side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist, or check Fanapt's prescription information.

Mild side effects of Fanapt can include:

• dizziness
• dry mouth
• fatigue
• congested nose
• sleepiness
• weight gain or weight loss
• joint or muscle pain or stiffness
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• changes in body movements, such as slow movement, loss of balance, or tremors
• restlessness
• involuntary urine release (when you cannot prevent urine from leaking out)
• sexual side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and difficulty achieving orgasm
• mild allergic reaction*

Most of these side effects may subside within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if they worsen or persist, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Severe side effects

Severe side effects from Fanapt are rare, but they can occur. In case of severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately. In case of an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Severe side effects and their symptoms can include:

Postural orthostatic syndrome (a decrease in blood pressure that happens when you stand up). Symptoms can include: + lightheadedness + passing out + stumbling, which might lead to fractures or other injuries* Changes in your heartbeat or rhythm, such as tachycardia (quick heartbeat) or long QT syndrome (a condition that causes a slight, unusual pause between your heartbeats). Signs and symptoms can include: + rapid heartbeat + lightheadedness + heart fluttering + passing out* Changes in your metabolism that may cause serious health issues. These changes can include: + hyperglycemia (high blood sugar level), increasing the likelihood of diabetes or its complications + dyslipidemia (changes in blood cholesterol levels), like high cholesterol + significant weight gain* Elevated prolactin levels (a type of hormone). Symptoms can include: + leakage of milk from the nipples in females* + male breast enlargement** Blood disorders, including anemia (low red blood cell count) and leukopenia (low white blood cell count). These conditions can result in: + fatigue + fever + frequent or severe infections* A continuous erection of the penis. Symptoms can include: + a painful erection that doesn't go away + an erection that lasts for more than 4 hours + permanent tissue damage if not treated promptly* Changes in your thinking and motor function, which could impact your ability to drive safely or operate machinery.* Tardive dyskinesia (movement problems sometimes caused by certain medications). Symptoms can include involuntary, repetitive movements such as: + jaw movements + lip smacking + sticking out the tongue* Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction to certain medications (also called “neuroleptic” medications). Symptoms can include: + changes in heart rate or blood pressure + high fever + confusion + rigid muscles + excessive sweating* Seizures.* Risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.* Problems with temperature regulation in the body.* Difficulty swallowing, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia (a lung infection caused by inhaling food or liquids instead of swallowing them).* Increased risk of death in certain adults.* Severe allergic reaction.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone who is at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or harming others:

• Ask the difficult question: “Are you considering suicide?”
• Listen to the person without judgment.
• Contact 911 or your local emergency number, or text "TALK" to 741741 to talk to a trained crisis counselor.
• Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
• Remove any potentially harmful objects if it is safe to do so.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, individuals who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Allergic reaction

As with most medications, some people can have an allergic reaction after taking Fanapt. This side effect was not reported during Fanapt's clinical trials, but it has occurred since the drug was approved.

Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:

• rashes on the skin
• itching
• flushing

A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include:

• swelling under the skin, typically around the eyes, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throat
• difficulty breathing

Call your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to Fanapt, as the reaction could become severe. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms appear life-threatening or if you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Fanapt uses

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as Fanapt to treat specific conditions.

Fanapt for schizophrenia

Fanapt is FDA-approved to treat schizophrenia in adults.

Fanapt is usually only prescribed if other schizophrenia treatment options cannot be used or have not been effective. There are two primary reasons for this:

• Use of Fanapt is associated with QT prolongation (an abnormal heart rhythm seen on an electrocardiogram test). Other treatment options may not carry this risk.
• Fanapt requires a slow increase in dosage, which can cause a delay of 1 to 2 weeks before it begins to control schizophrenia symptoms. Other treatment options may take effect more quickly.

Your doctor can provide more information about the potential risks and benefits of Fanapt for your schizophrenia treatment.

Schizophrenia is a persistent mental health issue that can be quite severe. It's frequently diagnosed during the teenage or early adult years.

The symptoms of schizophrenia can include:

• having a sense of being watched or threatened, which isn't based on reality (known as paranoia)
• seeing or hearing things that aren't there (hallucinations)
• believing things that aren't true (delusions)
• having trouble organizing thoughts and completing tasks
• showing little emotion
• exhibiting unusual behavior

Day

Currently, there's no known cure for schizophrenia. Since it's a long-term condition, it doesn't go away on its own. Medications such as Fanapt, which is an antipsychotic drug, are available to help manage the symptoms of schizophrenia. It may take time for you and your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.

More information about schizophrenia can be found on our mental health resource site.

Effectiveness for schizophrenia

In clinical trials, Fanapt was found to be effective for treating schizophrenia in adults.

Treatment guidelines from the American Psychiatric Association suggest antipsychotics as the primary treatment option for schizophrenia. (Fanapt falls under the category of antipsychotic drugs.) However, Fanapt is usually only prescribed if other options for schizophrenia treatment aren't working or can't be used.

If you have questions about what to expect from Fanapt treatment, speak with your doctor.

Fanapt and children

Fanapt is FDA-approved for use in adults (aged 18 years and older) with schizophrenia. It's unknown whether Fanapt is safe or effective for children or adolescents with this condition.

Fanapt cost

The cost of Fanapt can vary, depending on your insurance plan, location, and the pharmacy you use.

Typical Dosage Instructions

Financial and insurance assistance

If you need help paying for Fanapt or need assistance understanding your insurance coverage, resources are available.

A savings card is available for Fanapt. More information and details about eligibility for assistance can be found by calling 866-318-1969 or visiting the program website.

To learn more about saving money on prescriptions, check out this article.

Mail-order pharmacies

Fanapt may be available through a mail-order pharmacy. Using this service can help lower the drug's cost and allow you to get your medication without leaving home.

If recommended by your doctor, you may be able to receive a 90-day supply of Fanapt. This could reduce your number of pharmacy visits and help lower the cost. If you're interested in this option, speak with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order medications.

If you don't have insurance, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.

Generic version

Fanapt is not available in a generic form. A generic drug is a copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Generics are generally less expensive than brand-name medications.

Fanapt dosage

The dosage of Fanapt prescribed by your doctor will depend on several factors, including the severity of the condition you're taking Fanapt to treat, any other medical conditions you may have, and any other medications you may be taking.

Typically, your doctor will start you on a low dosage. The dosage will then be gradually increased over time to reach the optimal dose for you. The goal is to prescribe the lowest effective dose.

The following information provides common dosages. However, it's important to take the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the best dosage for your specific needs.

Drug forms and strengths

Fanapt is available in tablet form in several strengths:

• 1 mg
• 2 mg
• 4 mg
• 6 mg
• 8 mg
• 10 mg
• 12 mg

Dosage for schizophrenia

Fanapt treatment should be started slowly. This means you'll begin with a low dosage that will be increased each day for the first 4 to 7 days. This helps your body get used to the drug and reduces the risk of certain side effects.

Your doctor may prescribe a Fanapt Starter Pack to help you keep track of your doses for the first 4 days. The typical starting dosage of Fanapt is as follows:

1

| | || --- | --- || Day | Typical Dosage Instructions || 1 | 1 mg taken twice daily || 2 | 2 mg taken twice daily || 3 | 4 mg taken twice daily || 4 | 6 mg taken twice daily |

Thereafter, your doctor may have you continue taking 6 mg of Fanapt twice daily. This would be your maintenance (ongoing) dosage.

Your doctor might continue to boost your dosage of Fanapt in certain situations. These boosts could occur daily for up to 3 more days, as per your doctor's advice. The common maintenance dosage of Fanapt usually ranges from 6 mg to 12 mg, taken twice a day. The maximum dosage is 12 mg, taken twice daily (total of 24 mg per day).

Your doctor might prescribe a different dosage for you, depending on various factors. These could include whether you're on other medications or have specific drug metabolism issues. If you're unsure about the best dosage for you, consult your doctor.

What if I miss a dose?

In case you miss a dose of Fanapt, take it as soon as you notice. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You should not take double doses to make up for missed ones.

If you're unsure about what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor. Also, contact your doctor if it's been more than 3 days since you last took Fanapt. They might prescribe a lower dosage initially, then gradually increase it to your usual dosage.

To prevent missing doses, you could use a medication reminder. This could involve setting an alarm or using a timer. Alternatively, you could download a reminder app on your phone.

Will I need to use this drug long term?

Fanapt is intended for long-term use, if you and your doctor decide it's safe and effective for you.

1 mg taken twice per day

Common questions about Fanapt

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Fanapt.

Is Fanapt prescribed for anxiety?

No, Fanapt is typically prescribed for schizophrenia. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t approved Fanapt for soothing anxiety or treating anxiety disorders.

Fanapt falls under the category of drugs known as antipsychotics. In some cases, doctors may prescribe other antipsychotic drugs off-label* for anxiety. For example, quetiapine (Seroquel) is sometimes prescribed for treatment-resistant generalized anxiety disorder. (Treatment-resistant means that past treatments haven’t worked well for your condition.)

What drug class does Fanapt belong to?

Fanapt is an oral tablet that belongs to a drug class called atypical antipsychotics or simply “antipsychotics.” Specifically, Fanapt is a second-generation atypical antipsychotic.

Examples of other oral second-generation atypical antipsychotics include:

• aripiprazole (Abilify)
• cariprazine (Vraylar)
• paliperidone (Invega)
• quetiapine (Seroquel)

If you have questions about antipsychotic drugs, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Should I avoid exposure to heat while I’m taking Fanapt?

Typically, your body keeps your core body temperature steady even if you're exposed to extreme heat. However, taking antipsychotic drugs, such as Fanapt, may interfere with your body’s ability to regulate its own temperature. Because of this, people taking antipsychotic drugs are at risk for hyperthermia (elevated body temperature). Types of hyperthermia, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, can be life threatening.

While this side effect hasn’t been specifically reported with Fanapt, it has occurred with other drugs in the same class. So, people taking Fanapt should take precautions to avoid becoming overheated. A few tips include:

• When you can’t avoid exposure to extreme heat, wear a hat and light-colored clothing made of breathable fabric such as cotton or linen.
• Drink plenty of fluids while limiting coffee and other caffeinated drinks to help prevent dehydration.
• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest time of the day. Instead, plan your workouts in the morning or evening when it’s generally cooler.

Talk with your doctor for more details on preventing or managing the possible side effects of Fanapt.

Fanapt and alcohol

You should not consume alcohol while taking Fanapt.

Alcohol may increase the risk of certain side effects of Fanapt or make them worse. Examples include sleepiness and changes in your cognitive (thinking) and motor (movement) function.

Also, drinking alcohol may worsen certain symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that aren’t really there) and delusions (false beliefs). Keep in mind that Fanapt is used to treat schizophrenia.

Additionally, research suggests that people with schizophrenia are more susceptible to alcohol use disorder. So, consuming alcohol is not recommended in people with this condition.

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If you drink alcohol and have questions about drinking it with your condition, talk with your doctor.

Fanapt interactions

Fanapt can interact with several other medications. It can also interact with certain supplements as well as certain foods.

Different interactions can cause different effects. For instance, some interactions can interfere with how well a drug works. Other interactions can increase side effects or make them more severe. Drug-condition interactions can also cause certain effects. For information about these interactions, see the “Fanapt precautions” section below.

Fanapt and other medications

Below is a list of medications that can interact with Fanapt. This list does not contain all drugs that may interact with Fanapt.

Before commencing Fanapt use, engage in discussions with your healthcare practitioner and pharmacist. Share details about all prescriptions, non-prescription drugs, and other substances you consume or utilize, including vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements. This information exchange aids in avoiding potential conflicts.

Some medications when paired with Fanapt might escalate the risk of QT prolongation (an irregular heart rhythm type) or long QT syndrome (heart rhythm alteration type). These adverse effects can lead to severe or even fatal heart problems, hence, your doctor may refrain from prescribing these drugs concurrently. Medications associated with QT prolongation include:

• Class 1A antiarrhythmic drugs, such as:
  • procainamide
  • quinidine
• Class III antiarrhythmic drugs, such as:
  • sotalol (Betapace AF)
  • amiodarone (Pacerone)
• Specific antibiotics, like moxifloxacin
• Certain other antipsychotic drugs, such as:
  • chlorpromazine
  • thioridazine
• Methadone (Methadose), an opioid medication
• Pentamide (Pentam), an antiparasitic drug

Fanapt may induce drowsiness. The combination of Fanapt with certain drugs might intensify this side effect, potentially leading to an excessive level of drowsiness that could be dangerous. Such drugs include:

2 mg taken twice per day

• Insomnia treatment drugs (sleep aids), such as:
  • diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Unisom SleepGels)
  • zolpidem (Ambien)
• Benzodiazepines, such as:
  • diazepam (Valium)
  • alprazolam (Xanax)
  • lorazepam (Ativan)
• Other antipsychotic drugs, such as:
  • risperidone (Risperdal)
  • olanzapine (Zyprexa)
• Certain antidepressants, such as:
  • mirtazapine (Remeron)
  • trazodone

Fanapt metabolism may be affected by certain drugs. These drugs are referred to by healthcare professionals as “strong CYP2D6 inhibitors” and “strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.” Taking these drugs simultaneously with Fanapt increases the chance of Fanapt side effects. Consequently, if your doctor prescribes these types of drugs during Fanapt usage, they might lower your Fanapt dosage. Examples of such drugs include:

• Specific antifungal drugs, such as:
  • ketoconazole
  • itraconazole (Sporanox)
• Certain antidepressants, such as:
  • fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • paroxetine (Paxil)

Fanapt may cause orthostatic hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing). Taking drugs that lower blood pressure could further exacerbate this side effect. Examples of blood pressure medications include:

• Alpha-blockers, such as doxazosin (Cardura)
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as lisinopril (Zestril)
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), such as telmisartan (Micardis)
• Beta-blockers, such as bisoprolol (Bystolic)

If you have any queries concerning drug interactions that could impact you, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.

Fanapt and herbs and supplements

No herbs or supplements have been specifically reported to interact with Fanapt. Nevertheless, it is still advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any such products during Fanapt treatment.

Fanapt and foods

No foods have been reported to interact with Fanapt. There is a possibility that grapefruit or grapefruit juice might interact with Fanapt, but this has not been thoroughly studied.

If you have any questions about consuming specific foods with Fanapt, discuss them with your doctor.

Fanapt usage guidelines

Use Fanapt in accordance with the prescriptions provided by your doctor.

Timing

Fanapt is administered twice daily. Take one tablet in the morning and another tablet in the evening. Your doctor might specify unique timeframes for Fanapt ingestion. Fanapt can be consumed with or without food.

Regularly taking your dosages at consistent intervals maintains a steady level of the drug in your body, enhancing Fanapt's effectiveness.

To avoid missing doses, deploy medication reminder tools, including setting alarms, utilizing timers, or downloading reminder apps on your phone.

Accessible labels and containers

If your prescription label is difficult to read, communicate with your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or smartphone scannable text-to-speech functionality. If your local pharmacy does not provide these options, your doctor or pharmacist may direct you to one that does.

If you struggle with opening medication bottles, consult your pharmacist about acquiring Fanapt in an easy-open container. They might also recommend devices to facilitate lid opening.

3

Fanapt can be consumed with or without food.

Can Fanapt be crushed, split, or chewed?

No, Fanapt tablets should not be crushed, split, or chewed. Fanapt tablets should be swallowed whole.

If you have difficulty swallowing pills, consult your physician. They might recommend an alternative treatment option for you.

How Fanapt functions

Fanapt is utilized to treat schizophrenia in adults. The exact mechanism by which Fanapt works against schizophrenia is not fully understood. The drug is believed to operate in the brain by enhancing the availability of certain neurotransmitters (chemical messengers). These include serotonin and dopamine.

Individuals with schizophrenia are thought to have an imbalance of these neurotransmitters. This impedes brain cells from communicating effectively. These imbalances might play a role in the development of schizophrenia and its related symptoms.

Antipsychotic drugs, such as Fanapt, are believed to assist in balancing these neurotransmitters. This could aid in improving communication between brain cells and lessen the symptoms of schizophrenia.

How long does it take to work?

Fanapt might take 1 to 2 weeks to reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia. Even if you start feeling better, continue taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor. Fanapt is typically used long-term to manage your condition and prevent symptoms from reoccurring.

4 mg taken twice per day

Fanapt and pregnancy

It's not known if Fanapt is safe to use during pregnancy. Limited information is available regarding the safety of Fanapt use during pregnancy.

Some evidence suggested that extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) occurred in babies exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy. Note that Fanapt belongs to this drug class but it wasn’t specifically studied. (EPS are a group of symptoms sometimes caused by antipsychotic drugs. Examples of EPS are rigid muscles, fever, and movement problems.)

Additionally, withdrawal symptoms have occurred after birth in newborns whose mothers took antipsychotics during the third trimester of pregnancy. Reported symptoms included excessive drowsiness, tremor, and difficulty feeding or breathing.

Inform your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant. They can provide more information about the risks of Fanapt use during pregnancy.

If you become pregnant during Fanapt treatment, inform your doctor. They may suggest participating in the National Pregnancy Registry for antipsychotic drugs. This registry helps people learn more about how exposure to these drugs may impact pregnancy outcomes. For more information, you can call this registry at 866-961-2388 or visit the website.

Fanapt and fertility

It's not known if Fanapt affects fertility. In animal studies, iloperidone (the active ingredient in Fanapt) was found to reduce fertility in male and female rats. However, the findings of animal studies do not always predict what could happen in humans.

If you have questions about how Fanapt may impact your fertility, speak with your doctor.

Fanapt and birth control

It's not known if Fanapt is safe to take during pregnancy. If you're sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, discuss your birth control needs while using Fanapt with your doctor.

For more information about taking Fanapt during pregnancy, see the “Fanapt and pregnancy” section above.

Fanapt and breastfeeding

Your doctor will likely recommend not breastfeeding a child while taking Fanapt. There isn’t any information available regarding the effects of the drug on breast milk or a child who is breastfed.

In animal studies, the drug passed into the milk of lactating rats.

Due to the possibility of Fanapt passing into breast milk, doctors typically recommend other healthy ways to feed a child while taking this medication.

If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, discuss your use of Fanapt with your doctor.

• Liver issues. If you have liver issues, communicate with your healthcare provider. They might examine your liver function before prescribing Fanapt. They might supply you with a reduced dose if they find your liver issues to be moderately severe. Fanapt is not suggested for individuals with severe liver issues.
• Metabolism problem with CYP2D6. Fanapt is broken down in your body by an enzyme named CYP2D6. Some individuals have issues with this enzyme that impedes their body from metabolizing the drug. This results in a higher amount of the drug in your body and raises the risk of Fanapt's side effects. Medical professionals may refer to this as being a "poor metabolizer of CYP2D6." Discuss this issue with your healthcare provider. They will likely prescribe a lower dose of Fanapt for you.
• Long QT syndrome or risk factors for QT prolongation. Occasionally, changes in heart rate or rhythm might take place in individuals taking Fanapt. Specifically, some people have congenital long QT syndrome or have developed QT prolongation. "Long QT" refers to an abnormal interval between heartbeats. Certain factors or conditions might increase the risk of experiencing this side effect from Fanapt. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have congenital long QT syndrome before beginning treatment with Fanapt. You should also inform them if you have low potassium or magnesium levels, heart problems such as heart failure, or a problem metabolizing an enzyme called CYP2D6. Your healthcare provider can assist in determining whether it's safe for you to take Fanapt or if another medication would be more suitable for you.
• Diabetes. Fanapt can lead to hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels). If you have diabetes, taking this drug may complicate the management of your condition. This may increase the risk of diabetes complications. Your healthcare provider may have you monitor your blood sugar levels frequently while you take Fanapt. They may also adjust your diabetes treatment plan.
• Cardiovascular or blood pressure issues. Antipsychotic medications, such as Fanapt, may influence your heart rate or rhythm. This drug may also result in changes in blood pressure. If you already have a cardiovascular problem, high blood pressure, or low blood pressure, speak with your healthcare provider. They will assess whether Fanapt is a safe treatment option for you.
• Cholesterol issues. Fanapt can influence blood cholesterol levels. If you already have cholesterol problems, such as high cholesterol, taking this drug may exacerbate the issue. This can increase your risk of associated complications. Your healthcare provider will monitor your cholesterol levels regularly while you take Fanapt. They may also prescribe additional cholesterol medications.
• Seizure disorder. Fanapt may enhance your risk of seizures. If you have a history of seizures, discuss this with your healthcare provider before they prescribe Fanapt. They will assist in determining if it's safe for you to take it.
• Dehydration risk. Antipsychotic medications, such as Fanapt, may affect your body's ability to regulate temperature. This can increase the risk of dehydration. If you're already prone to dehydration, speak with your healthcare provider. They will assist in determining if it's safe for you to take this medication.
• Risk of stroke in elderly adults with psychosis related to dementia. Antipsychotic medications, such as Fanapt, may increase the risk of stroke when utilized to treat psychosis related to dementia in adults age 65 and older. (Psychosis is a condition that causes you to lose touch with reality.) Fanapt is not approved for this use. And, due to this risk, physicians usually won't prescribe Fanapt to elderly adults with psychosis and dementia.
• Allergic reaction. If you've experienced an allergic reaction to Fanapt or any of its ingredients, your healthcare provider will likely not prescribe Fanapt. Ask your healthcare provider about alternative medications that would be more suitable for you.
• Pregnancy. The safety of Fanapt during pregnancy is uncertain. For more information, see the "Fanapt and pregnancy" section above.
• Breastfeeding. The safety of Fanapt while breastfeeding a child is uncertain. For more information, see the "Fanapt and breastfeeding" section above.

Note: For additional information about the potential negative effects of Fanapt, see the "Fanapt side effects" section above.

Fanapt overdose

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Exceeding the recommended dosage of Fanapt can lead to serious side effects. Avoid using more Fanapt than your healthcare provider recommends. (For information on the recommended dosages of Fanapt, see the "Fanapt dosage" section above.)

Overdose symptoms

Symptoms of an overdose can include:

• long QT syndrome, a condition that causes a slight, abnormal pause between heartbeats
• excessive drowsiness
• rapid heart rate
• hypotension (low blood pressure)
• extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS, a group of symptoms that can occur in people taking antipsychotics), such as:
  • rigid muscles
  • fever
  • repeated face or muscle movements that you can’t stop
  • tremor
  • trouble staying still
  • confusion

If you believe you've consumed excess of this substance, reach out to your physician. Alternatively, contact America's Poison Control at 800-222-1222 or use their online resource. However, for serious symptoms, dial 911, your local emergency number, or rush to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Fanapt Expiration, Storage, and Disposal Guidelines

Once you receive Fanapt from the pharmacy, the pharmacist will affix an expiration date on the bottle or packaging. This date usually corresponds to a year from the dispensation date of the medication.

The expiration date is crucial as it assures the drug's effectiveness for the given period. The FDA advises against using expired medicines. If you have unused medication surpassing the expiration date, consult your pharmacist about proper disposal methods.

Storage

The effectiveness of a medication can be influenced by various factors, including storage conditions.

6 mg taken twice per day

Fanapt tablets should be stored at room temperature in a tightly sealed container, away from direct sunlight. In exceptional circumstances, Fanapt may be temporarily stored at temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Avoid keeping this medication in humid areas such as bathrooms.

Disposal

When you no longer need Fanapt or have remaining medication, it's vital to dispose of it safely to prevent unintentional ingestion by children, pets, or others. It also helps in preserving the environment.

This document contains valuable tips on medication disposal. Additionally, you can consult your pharmacist for disposal advice.

Disclaimer:Medical News Today strives to ensure that all information is accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before taking any medication. The drug information provided here is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, dosages, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of such information for a particular drug does not imply that the drug or drug combination is safe, appropriate, or effective for all users or specific uses.

1. While Fanapt is effective in treating schizophrenia, it should only be prescribed when other treatment options are not effective or cannot be utilized due to potential heart rhythm issues or slow dosage increases causing a delay in symptom relief.
2. Many individuals may experience mild side effects from Fanapt, such as dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, and diarrhea, but severe side effects like changes in heartbeat or rhythm, elevated prolactin levels, or neurological issues are less common but more serious.
3. Fanapt, as a second-generation atypical antipsychotic, plays a crucial role in managing mental health conditions by altering the chemical balance in the brain, temporarily reducing symptoms of schizophrenia via the oral tablet form.

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