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Asenapine Sublingual Tablet (ASENAPINE - SUBLINGUAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • bipolar disorder
  • depression
  • schizophrenia

Brand Name(s): Saphris

Generic Name: Asenapine

Instructions

Place the pill under the tongue and let it dissolve.

Avoid eating or drinking for 10 min after the medicine has completely dissolved.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Peel back foil, carefully remove tablet using dry hands. Do not push the tablet through the foil.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before stopping.

This medicine may cause higher blood sugar levels or diabetes. Please follow your doctor's instructions and check your blood sugar level regularly while on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

This medicine is not approved for use in children younger than 18.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

If possible, avoid using with alcohol, marijuana, or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Avoid becoming overheated during exercise or other activities. Try to stay cool in hot weather.

Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

If you have a painful erection or an erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical care right away.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • increased appetite
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • numbness of mouth or throat
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • loss of balance
  • breast pain or swelling
  • breathing interruption during sleep
  • confusion
  • drooling
  • fainting
  • fever or chills
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
  • lightheadedness
  • mood changes
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • loss of movement anywhere on the body
  • uncontrollable movement of face, tongue, arms or legs
  • muscle pain or weakness
  • muscle trembling
  • nervousness
  • seizures
  • shakiness
  • suicidal thoughts
  • difficulty swallowing
  • excessive thirst
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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