Fanapt: Its Uses & Effects
Fanapt belongs to an “Atypical antipsychotic” group used for treating schizophrenia. People suffering from schizophrenia usually develop symptoms like difficulty in organizing thoughts, having hallucinations and delusions and difficulty in speaking. Fanapt helps control such symptoms in order that the patient may be able to lead a better life.
It is available as an oral tablet. A low initial dose should be given to prevent orthostatic hypotension. The recommended dosage is 1 mg taken twice a day. The highest recommended dosage is 12 mg taken two times a day.
Fanapt’s side effects include dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, nasal congestion, somnolence, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, weight gain, elevated blood sugar levels, frequent urination, increased thirst, and extreme hunger.
Other adverse effects are jitteriness, strange body movements, involuntary muscle contractions. Inexplicable breast discharges or breast enlargement, persistent infections, disturbances in menstrual periods, heat stroke, trouble swallowing, priapism, rash, itching, hives, and wheezing.
A much graver and potentially deadly side effect is QT prolongation. Now this refers to serious alteration in the heart rhythm. It is unusual, but as there is a possibility, the drug manufacturer suggests seeking other treatment alternatives before using Fanapt. The above risks must be carefully weighed by the doctor and the patient before consuming Fanapt.
Patients must know of the risk of serious dizziness, particularly when rising hastily and above all at the start of therapy. Due to this, your physician will give you a lower dosage initially, and slowly raise it. Patients must refrain from consuming alcohol while on Fanapt. Abnormal muscle stiffness or ache must be told to the doctor also.
Ahead of consuming Fanapt, you must inform your physician in case you have seizures, diabetes, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disorder or other dementia related disorders, kidney disease, low BP, an electrolyte imbalance, arrhythmia, heart problems, bradycardia or any allergies.
Furthermore, tell your doctor if you’re breastfeeding, pregnant or take alcohol. The doctor should be informed of the medicines you take at present including prescription OTC drugs, vitamins or herbal remedies.
When on Fanapt you must be careful of going outdoors, as you may easily become dehydrated. Ensure you carry a bottle of water while outdoors and ensure to take sufficient liquids when on Fanapt.
Inform your physician if you undergo any adverse effects or feel something is not okay while on Fanapt. Your doctor may be equipped to identify and take care of the problem.
