(Click Fanapt Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Fanapt is made by Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Fanapt belongs to a group of medications called atypical (or second-generation)
antipsychotic medications. It is not entirely known how Fanapt works for the treatment of schizophrenia. However, it is known that the drug blocks or lessens the effects of certain chemicals in the brain. These brain chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia.
Clinical Effects
This medication has been thoroughly evaluated in clinical studies. These studies compared Fanapt to a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients) or other antipsychotic medications to treat acute schizophrenia.
Although this product was more effective than a placebo, it seemed to be less effective (at least early on) compared to certain other antipsychotics. It is thought that this is probably due to the fact that Fanapt must be started at a low dose (and the dosage must be slowly increased).
When and How to Take Fanapt
Some general considerations include the following:
- The medicine comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth twice a day.
- It does not matter if you take this medication with food or on an empty stomach.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to the drug
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Fanapt may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most common side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Fanapt Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Fanapt?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
During studies, accidental overdoses of this medication caused symptoms such as drowsiness, low blood pressure, or a rapid heart rate. If you happen to overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Fanapt?
If you forget to take your dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of the medication.
Fanapt tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
The tablets come in the following strengths:
- Fanapt 1 mg
- Fanapt 2 mg
- Fanapt 4 mg
- Fanapt 6 mg
- Fanapt 8 mg
- Fanapt 10 mg
- Fanapt 12 mg.
Is There a Generic Version of Fanapt?
Currently, Fanapt is not available in generic form.
