Iloperidone
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Atypical Antipsychotic
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Iloperidone
Summary
Iloperidone is used to treat schizophrenia, which is a mental health condition affecting thoughts and behavior. It helps reduce symptoms like hallucinations, which are seeing or hearing things that aren't there, and delusions, which are false beliefs.
Iloperidone works by affecting chemicals in the brain called dopamine and serotonin, which help control mood and behavior. It balances these chemicals to improve symptoms of schizophrenia, making it easier to think clearly and feel better.
The usual starting dose of Iloperidone for adults is 1 mg taken twice daily. Your doctor may increase the dose gradually. The maximum recommended dose is 24 mg per day. It is taken by mouth, with or without food.
Common side effects of Iloperidone include dizziness, dry mouth, and weight gain. Dizziness means feeling lightheaded or unsteady, and dry mouth is when your mouth feels unusually dry. Weight gain refers to an increase in body weight.
Iloperidone can cause QT prolongation, which is a heart rhythm disorder. It should not be used if you have a known allergy to it or its ingredients. Always inform your doctor about any heart conditions or medications you are taking.
Indications and Purpose
How does Iloperidone work?
Iloperidone works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in mood and behavior. It helps balance these chemicals to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions. Think of it like adjusting the volume on a radio to get a clearer sound. By fine-tuning these brain chemicals, Iloperidone helps improve mood and thinking. This makes it effective for managing symptoms of schizophrenia and improving overall mental health.
Is Iloperidone effective?
Iloperidone is effective in treating schizophrenia, which is a mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Clinical studies show that Iloperidone helps reduce symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to improve mood and thinking. The effectiveness of Iloperidone can vary among individuals. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed. Always take Iloperidone as prescribed for the best results.
What is Iloperidone?
Iloperidone is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, which is a mental health condition affecting thoughts and behavior. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to help improve mood and thinking. Iloperidone is primarily used for schizophrenia but may also be prescribed for other mental health conditions as determined by your doctor. It's important to take Iloperidone as prescribed and follow your doctor's instructions for the best results. Regular check-ups are important to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Iloperidone?
Iloperidone is usually used for long-term management of schizophrenia, which is a chronic mental health condition. The duration of use depends on your response to the medication and your doctor's recommendations. It's important to take Iloperidone as prescribed and not stop without consulting your doctor. They will guide you on how long to continue the medication based on your progress and any side effects you experience. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important to ensure the treatment remains effective.
How do I dispose of Iloperidone?
To dispose of Iloperidone, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, remove it from its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take Iloperidone?
Iloperidone is usually taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, with or without food. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions on the exact dosage. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Iloperidone to start working?
Iloperidone may start to work within a few days, but it can take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. The time it takes to work can vary depending on individual factors like age, overall health, and the severity of symptoms. It's important to take Iloperidone as prescribed and be patient while waiting for the full benefits. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
How should I store Iloperidone?
Store Iloperidone at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. Always keep Iloperidone out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. Following these storage guidelines helps ensure the medication remains safe and effective.
What is the usual dose of Iloperidone?
The usual starting dose of Iloperidone for adults is 1 mg twice daily. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose based on your response and tolerance. The maximum recommended dose is 24 mg per day. Dose adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with certain health conditions. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs. It's important to take Iloperidone exactly as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Iloperidone be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of Iloperidone while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if the medication passes into breast milk or affects the breastfed infant. If you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. They can help determine the safest treatment plan for you and your baby. Your doctor may suggest alternative medications that are known to be safer during breastfeeding. Always follow your doctor's advice to ensure the well-being of both you and your child.
Can Iloperidone be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Iloperidone during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited evidence makes it difficult to provide definitive advice. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. They can help determine the safest treatment plan for you and your baby. Managing mental health during pregnancy is important, and your doctor can provide guidance on the best approach.
Can I take Iloperidone with other prescription drugs?
Iloperidone can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing effectiveness. Major interactions include drugs that affect heart rhythm, like certain antibiotics and antifungals, which can increase the risk of QT prolongation, a heart rhythm disorder. Moderate interactions include medications that affect liver enzymes, which can alter Iloperidone levels in the body. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. They can adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Does Iloperidone have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Iloperidone can cause dizziness, dry mouth, and weight gain, which are common adverse effects. Serious effects include QT prolongation, which affects heart rhythm, and requires immediate medical attention. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor right away. They can help determine if Iloperidone is the cause and adjust your treatment if necessary. Always inform your healthcare provider about any new or worsening symptoms.
Does Iloperidone have any safety warnings?
Yes, Iloperidone has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of a serious condition called QT prolongation, which affects heart rhythm. This can lead to irregular heartbeats and requires monitoring. Not adhering to safety warnings can result in severe heart problems. It's crucial to inform your doctor about any heart conditions or medications you are taking. Regular check-ups and following your doctor's advice can help manage these risks effectively.
Is Iloperidone addictive?
Iloperidone is not considered addictive or habit-forming. It does not cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Iloperidone works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to help manage symptoms of mental health conditions. This mechanism does not lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, discuss them with your doctor. They can provide reassurance and guidance on how to use Iloperidone safely as part of your treatment plan.
Is Iloperidone safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the side effects of Iloperidone, such as dizziness and heart rhythm changes. These effects can increase the risk of falls and other complications. Iloperidone can be used in the elderly, but with caution. Doctors may start with a lower dose and monitor closely for any adverse effects. Regular check-ups are important to ensure the medication is working safely and effectively. Always follow your doctor's advice when using Iloperidone in older adults.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Iloperidone?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Iloperidone. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which can impair your ability to function safely. It may also interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. If you choose to drink occasionally, limit your alcohol intake and be aware of how it affects you. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Iloperidone to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Iloperidone?
You can exercise while taking Iloperidone, but be cautious. This medication can cause dizziness and affect your balance, which might impact your ability to exercise safely. Start with light activities and gradually increase intensity as you see how your body responds. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. If you have concerns about exercising while on Iloperidone, talk with your doctor. They can provide guidance based on your specific health needs.
Is it safe to stop Iloperidone?
It's not safe to stop Iloperidone suddenly without consulting your doctor. This medication is usually used for long-term management of mental health conditions. Stopping it abruptly can cause your symptoms to return or worsen. Your doctor may suggest gradually reducing the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Always talk with your doctor before making any changes to your medication. They can help you stop Iloperidone safely and find alternative treatments if needed.
What are the most common side effects of Iloperidone?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Iloperidone include dizziness, dry mouth, and weight gain. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Iloperidone, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. It's important to talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Iloperidone and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking Iloperidone?
Iloperidone should not be used if you have a known allergy to it or its ingredients. This is an absolute contraindication. It is also not recommended for people with a history of QT prolongation, which is a heart rhythm disorder, as it can worsen this condition. These are considered relative contraindications, meaning the drug may be used only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Always inform your doctor about your medical history and any medications you are taking to ensure Iloperidone is safe for you.
Forms / Brands
