SAPHRIS (Asenapine)

What is this medication?

Asenapine, Saphris/Secuado
Antimanic Agent, Second Generation Antipsychotic Agent

Asenapine is indicated for treatment of dipolar disorder; schizophrenia.

“Alert: Black Box Warning

Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia related psychosis

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Asenapine, Saphris/Secuado is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis.”

How does this medication work? 

Asenapine, Saphris/Secuado is believed to work through a combination of antagonist activity at the D2 and 5-HT2A receptors.  The addition of serotonin antagonism to dopamine antagonism (classic neuroleptic mechanism) is thought to improve negative symptoms of psychoses and reduce the incidence of extrapyramidal side effects as compared to typical antipsychotics.

How should I take this medication?

Oral: 5mg to 10mg twice daily.

How to Take: Sublingual: should be placed under the tongue and allowed to completely dissolve. Do not split, crush, chew, or swallow. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 10 minutes after administration.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting Asenapine, Saphris/Secuado make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take.  You are at a higher risk of experiencing blood dyscrasias (i.e. leukopenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis), CNS depression, dyslipidemia, esophageal dysmotility, extrapyramidal symptoms, hyperglycemia, hyperprolactinemia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, orthostatic hypotension, QT prolongation, suicidal ideation, temperature regulation, weight gain.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Drowsiness, insomnia, akathisia, extrapyramidal reaction, headache, weight gain, dyslipidemia, hypoesthesia, application site reaction.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Asenapine, Saphris/Secuado only common ones.