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Geodone Side Effects

Geodone is a common misspelling for Geodon (generic name: ziprasidone), an antipsychotic drug used to treat schizophrenia. It is also used to treat mania and mixed states in patients with bipolar disorder. It isn't known exactly how the drug works to balance the chemicals in the brain, but it is believed to work by inhibiting the actions of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.

  1. Warning for Elderly Patients with Dementia

    • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave Geodon (ziprasidone) a black box warning as a result of an increased likelihood of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. The drug was the cause of heart failure, sudden death or pneumonia in this group of patients.

    Warning for People with Long QT Syndrome

    • Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a rare congenital heart condition effecting the heart's electrical activity. During exercise or in response to stress, people with LQTS develop a sudden and uncontrollable arrhythmia (heart rhythm). This can induce fainting and even sudden death. Geodon should not be taken by anyone with a family or personal history of LQTS, as the drug increases the risk of dangerous arrhythmia.

    Considerations When Taking Geodon

    • Geodon (ziprasidone) often makes people more sensitive to extremely hot or cold temperatures. If taking Geodon, you should avoid becoming too cold or overheated and dehydrated. It is important to drink enough fluids on hot days or when exercising. Geodon can also impair mental alertness and reaction time, and alcohol should be avoided.

    Common Side Effects

    • Common side effects of Geodon (ziprasidone) include: headaches, anxiousness, depression, mild rashes, dizziness, drowsiness, pain or twitching of muscles, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough and weight gain.

    Serious Side Effects

    • An allergic reaction to Geodon is indicated by development of hives or face, lip, tongue or throat swelling. In these cases, medical attention should be sought immediately. You should cease Geodon therapy and contact your physician or pharmacist if any other serious side effects occur. These include feeling light-headed and dizzy; fainting; having a fast, pounding or uneven heartbeat; muscle stiffness; fever or profuse sweating; tremors or restless movements of muscles in the eyes, jaws, tongue or neck; feeling agitated, hostile or confused; becoming thirsty, weak or hungry; urinating excessively; or having a painful erection penis or one that lasts 4 hours or longer.

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