Asenapine (sublingual)
Generic name: asenapine (sublingual) [ a-SEN-a-peen ]
Brand name: Saphris
Dosage form: sublingual tablet (10 mg; 2.5 mg; 5 mg)
Drug class:Atypical antipsychotics
What is asenapine?
Asenapine is an antipsychotic medicine that is used to treat schizophrenia in adults, and bipolar I disorder in adults and children who are at least 10 years old.
Asenapine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Asenapine is not approved for use in older adults with dementia-related psychosis.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use asenapine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
severe liver disease.
Asenapine may increase the risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis and is not approved for this use.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart problems;
a heart attack or stroke;
diabetes (asenapine may raise your blood sugar);
a seizure;
liver disease;
trouble swallowing;
low white blood cell (WBC) counts; or
long QT syndrome (in you or a family member).
Taking antipsychotic medicine in the last 3 months of pregnancy may cause breathing problems, feeding problems, or withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. If you get pregnant, tell your doctor right away. Do not stop taking asenapine without your doctor's advice.
It may not be safe to breastfeed while using asenapine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Asenapine should not be given to a child younger than 10 years old. Asenapine is not approved for schizophrenia in anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take asenapine?
Asenapine is usually taken 2 times per day. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Using dry hands, gently remove the ta...
