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General Medication Fact Sheet for Saphris
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Saphris |
| Generic Name | Asenapine |
| Boxed/Label Warning | Increased risk of death in elderly people with dementia-related psychosis. |
| Purpose | Treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes). |
| Mechanism of Action | Antagonizes dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. |
| Dosage Forms | Sublingual tablets |
| Available Strengths | 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically twice daily, or as directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Drowsiness, dizziness, anxiety, increased appetite, weight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). |
| Serious Side Effects | Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), tardive dyskinesia, hyperglycemia, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, orthostatic hypotension, seizures, suicidal thoughts/behaviors. |
| Drug Interactions | Other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines), antihypertensives, dopamine agonists, CYP1A2 inhibitors/inducers. |
| Important Notes | Do not eat or drink for 10 minutes after taking the sublingual tablet. Monitor for metabolic changes (weight, glucose, lipids). Use caution when driving or operating machinery. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Risperidone (Risperdal), Quetiapine (Seroquel), Olanzapine (Zyprexa), Aripiprazole (Abilify) |
Saphris Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Risperidone (Risperdal) | Dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptor antagonist | Available in oral and injectable forms. |
| Quetiapine (Seroquel) | Dopamine D1, D2, and serotonin 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A receptor antagonist | Also used for bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. |
| Olanzapine (Zyprexa) | Dopamine and serotonin antagonist | Known for weight gain and metabolic side effects. |
| Aripiprazole (Abilify) | Dopamine D2 partial agonist and serotonin 5-HT1A agonist | May have a lower risk of some side effects compared to other antipsychotics. |
Saphris Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Drowsiness | Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) |
| Dizziness | Tardive dyskinesia |
| Anxiety | Hyperglycemia/Diabetes |
| Increased appetite | Hyperlipidemia |
| Weight gain | Orthostatic hypotension |
| Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) | Seizures |
| Numbness in mouth | Suicidal thoughts/behaviors |
Saphris Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schizophrenia | 5 mg twice daily | 5-10 mg twice daily | Administer sublingually; do not eat or drink for 10 minutes after administration. |
| Bipolar I Disorder (Manic or Mixed) | 5 mg twice daily | 5-10 mg twice daily | Administer sublingually; do not eat or drink for 10 minutes after administration. |
Saphris Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $100 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $1,250 |
| From CPS | $276 |
