Saphris
® (
asenapine) is a prescription medication approved for the treatment of
schizophrenia and
bipolar disorder. It comes as a sublingual tablet, which is a tablet that rapidly dissolves under the tongue.
(Click Saphris Uses for more information on indications for this drug, including possible off-label uses.)
Saphris is made by Catalent UK Swindon Zydis Ltd. and is marketed and distributed by Schering Corporation.
Saphris belongs to a group of medications called atypical (or second-generation)
antipsychotic medications. It is not entirely clear how Saphris works for the treatment of schizophrenia and
bipolar disorder. However, it is known that the drug blocks or lessens the effects of certain chemicals in the brain. These chemicals, such as dopamine and serotonin, may be elevated in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Clinical Effects of Saphris
In two of three clinical studies for the treatment of schizophrenia, people taking Saphris experienced an improvement in their schizophrenia symptoms, compared to those taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients). However, in one clinical study, Saphris was no better than the placebo.
Clinical studies have also shown this drug to be effective for
bipolar disorder treatment. In these studies, the medication was effective for treating either episodes of mania or mixed episodes, which involve both mania and
depression.
When and How Do I Take It?
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking Saphris include the following:
- Saphris comes in the form of a sublingual tablet (a special type of tablet that dissolves under the tongue). It is usually taken by mouth twice a day.
- Do not crush or chew the tablets or swallow them whole. They will rapidly dissolve under the tongue. Do not eat or drink for 10 minutes after taking a dose.
- Try to take this medication at the same times each day.
- Saphris tablets come in special blister packaging designed to protect the delicate tablets. Be sure to peel back the packaging as directed; do not try to push the tablets through the packaging, as this will crush them. Keep each tablet in the original packaging until just before use.
- For this medicine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
Saphris Dosing Information
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated (schizophrenia or bipolar disorder)
- How you respond to Saphris
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
Side Effects
Just like any medicine, Saphris can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. 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 can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
Some of the most common side effects seen with Saphris include, but are not limited to:
(Click Saphris Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Saphris
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
Prior to taking Saphris, talk to your healthcare provider if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
During studies, accidental overdoses of this medication caused symptoms such as agitation and confusion. If you happen to take too much Saphris, seek medical attention right away.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Saphris?
If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the one you missed and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
How Should This Medication Be Stored?
Saphris tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children and pets. Keep the tablets in the original blister packaging until just before use.
Saphris sublingual tablets come in the following strengths:
- Saphris 5 mg
- Saphris 10 mg.
Is There a Generic Version of Saphris?
Currently, Saphris is not available in generic form
(see Generic Saphris for more information).
