Saphris (Asenapine): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, & More

What Is Saphris (Asenapine)?

Saphris, containing the active ingredient asenapine, belongs to the class of medications known as atypical antipsychotics. It works by modulating certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin.² It is approved by the FDA to help manage symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in adults.¹

FDA approval indicates that after rigorous testing and clinical trials, the medication has been deemed safe and effective for treating these specific conditions based on evidence presented to the Food and Drug Administration. Its approval signifies that it has undergone extensive evaluation for its intended use.

Is Saphris Better Than Abilify?

Determining whether Saphris is better than Abilify (aripiprazole) depends on various factors, including an individual’s response to the medication, their specific condition, and any side effects experienced.

Both Saphris and Abilify belong to the class of atypical antipsychotics and are used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. However, their effectiveness and tolerability can be different per individual. It’s essential to discuss with your healthcare provider to determine which medication might be more suitable based on your medical history, symptoms, and potential side effects.

Can Saphris Be Used for Anxiety?

Saphris is not typically recommended for anxiety disorders, and its usage for anxiety is not an FDA-approved indication. However, in some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications off-label, meaning they use them for conditions not specifically approved by the FDA.

How Does Saphris Work?

Saphris works by helping to regulate certain chemicals in the brain that control mood, thoughts, and behavior. It targets imbalances in these brain chemicals, which are often associated with conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.² By restoring a more balanced state of these chemicals, Saphris can reduce symptoms like hallucinations, mood swings, and other issues linked to these disorders, helping individuals manage their conditions more effectively.

How Does Saphris Make You Feel?

When taking Saphris, some individuals may feel a reduction in symptoms associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, such as decreased hallucinations, more stable moods, or reduced anxiety. However, like many medications, it can also cause side effects like drowsiness, insomnia, dizziness, or changes in appetite.¹

What Is Saphris Used to Treat?

Saphris is FDA-approved to treat two primary conditions: schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults. FDA approval signifies that after rigorous testing and clinical trials, Saphris has been deemed safe and effective specifically for managing symptoms associated with these conditions.

However, healthcare providers might also prescribe medications off-label, meaning for conditions not FDA-approved. Off-label use involves the prescriber’s professional judgment that the medication could potentially benefit the patient, even though it hasn’t undergone the same FDA evaluation for that specific condition.

Asenapine has been utilized in studies for the off-label treatment of many other conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder, catatonia, cocaine-induced psychotic disorder, and borderline personality disorder.³

Common Side Effects of Saphris

Common side effects of Saphris may include mild drowsiness, dizziness, or changes in appetite that often do not require medical attention unless they persist or become bothersome. However, it’s crucial to note potential adverse reactions.

Common side effects of Saphris include:*¹

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Tremors of the hands or other body parts
• Involuntary movements
• Increased appetite
• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Nausea

*All medications, including Saphris, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Saphris

Serious side effects of Saphris require immediate medical attention due to their severity and potential impact on health. These effects may involve significant changes in mood or behavior, movement disorders, or allergic reactions. Each of these conditions can require urgent medical assessment.

Serious side effects of Saphris include:*¹

• Severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat)
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) (high fever, irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing)
• Seizures
• Stroke
• Difficulty swallowing
• Uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia)
• Increased blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
• Low blood pressure leading to fainting
• Abnormal white blood cell count

*All medications, including Saphris, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Saphris Warnings & Precautions

Before taking Saphris, it’s crucial to be aware of various warnings and precautions that might require medical attention. These warnings include avoiding Saphris if diagnosed with certain conditions or having a history of specific health issues. Additionally, individuals should be cautious of any interactions with other medications they may already be taking and should always consult their doctor prior to beginning a new medication.

Avoid taking Saphris if you:¹

• Are diagnosed with cardiovascular conditions: Individuals with a history of cardiovascular issues should use Saphris cautiously due to potential heart-related effects.
• Have allergic reactions: If you have an allergy to Saphris or other atypical antipsychotics, stop taking the medication immediately and discuss alternatives with your prescriber.
• Have a history of diabetes: Saphris may elevate blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.
• Have a history of seizures: Caution is advised for patients with a history of seizures or conditions that lower the seizure threshold.
• Low white blood cell count: Patients may be monitored for changes in white blood cell count, especially those with a history of low white blood cell counts or a predisposition to leukopenia.
• Heat exposure: Saphris may impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature, requiring caution in hot environments or during strenuous activities.
• Concomitant use with other medications: Combining Saphris with other drugs that affect the central nervous system requires careful monitoring due to potential additive effects.
• Show any signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Patients should contact their health care provider or report to the emergency room if they experience the following signs and symptoms of NMS: high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, or irregular pulse, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Saphris Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

Saphris dosages can differ based on various factors, including the individual’s age, the specific condition being treated, and overall health. The approved age range for Saphris use typically includes adults, with specific dosages outlined for FDA-approved conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder.

For instance, in adults with schizophrenia, the usual starting dose is 5 mg taken twice daily, while for adults with bipolar I disorder, the initial dose is often 10 mg taken twice daily.¹ Dosages for off-label uses can vary widely and are usually determined based on clinical judgment, considering the individual’s circumstances and response to treatment. Healthcare providers adjust dosages gradually to find the most effective and tolerable amount for each person.

Saphris Forms & Strengths

Saphris is available only in sublingual form and comes in different strengths, such as 2.5, 5, and 10 mg tablets. The sublingual formulation allows the medication to dissolve quickly under the tongue, allowing it to absorb more quickly into the bloodstream. Determining the appropriate strength and form of Saphris involves considering various factors, including the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, the individual’s response to the medication, and their overall health.¹

Saphris is available in the following forms and strengths:¹

• Saphris 10 milligram (mg) sublingual tablet
• Saphris 5 mg sublingual tablet
• Saphris 2.5 mg sublingual tablet

How Should I Take Saphris?

Saphris should be taken by placing the tablet underneath the tongue and allowing it to dissolve completely to achieve the best effect. Do not remove a tablet from its packaging until it is time to take it, and make sure to use dry hands when handling this medication, as moisture may cause it to dissolve.

While it can be taken with or without food, it’s advisable to avoid eating or drinking for 10 minutes after taking the medication to ensure proper absorption. It’s vital to adhere to the prescribed schedule and dosage, even if symptoms improve, to maintain consistent therapeutic levels.¹

What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Saphris?

If you miss a dose of Saphris, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one. Consistency in dosing helps maintain stable levels of the medication in your system, so try to adhere to the prescribed schedule as much as possible.

If you have missed a dose and aren’t sure if you should take it, contact your pharmacist or healthcare professional.

Can You Overdose on Saphris?

Overdosing on Saphris can occur, and it’s important to take the medication only as prescribed. Signs of an overdose may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, an irregular heartbeat, fainting, or trouble breathing.

If you suspect an overdose or experience any concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services. It’s crucial to store Saphris securely and follow the prescribed dosage precisely to prevent accidental or intentional overdose. Consulting a healthcare provider or a poison control center for guidance on appropriate actions in case of an overdose is highly recommended.¹

What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Saphris?

If you believe you’ve taken too much Saphris or suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting emergency services or a poison control center. While awaiting medical help, it’s crucial to stay calm and provide as much information as possible about the medication ingested, the dosage, and the time it was taken. Do not attempt to treat the overdose at home without professional guidance.

What to Avoid When Taking Saphris

When taking Saphris, it’s essential to avoid other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. These substances can intensify drowsiness and slowed breathing, which can be dangerous. Additionally, medications that affect heart rhythm or blood pressure, like certain antibiotics or antifungals, could interact with Saphris, leading to irregular heartbeats or blood pressure changes.

Herbal supplements, especially those impacting the nervous system or blood clotting, should be used cautiously or avoided. They might interact unfavorably with Saphris, making it potentially less effective or causing unexpected side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining Saphris with any other medications, substances, or herbal supplements to prevent potentially harmful interactions.

7 substances you should avoid while taking Saphris include:

• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Saphris can increase drowsiness and impair judgment and coordination.
• Benzodiazepines: Combining Saphris with benzodiazepines may intensify sedation and central nervous system depression.
• Opioids: Concomitant use of opioids and Saphris can lead to increased sedation and respiratory depression.
• Medications affecting heart rhythm (e.g., certain antibiotics): These medications may increase the risk of irregular heartbeats or other cardiac effects when combined with Saphris.
• Antifungal medications: Some antifungal drugs may interact with Saphris, potentially affecting its metabolism and efficacy.
• Herbal supplements impacting the nervous system (e.g., St. John’s wort): Certain herbal supplements might affect neurotransmitters similarly to Saphris, potentially causing additive effects or adverse reactions.
• Substances affecting blood clotting (e.g., ginseng): Herbal supplements influencing blood clotting might interact with Saphris, impacting its effects or causing unexpected reactions.

This is not a comprehensive list of the possible interactions with Saphris. Talk with your healthcare provider and your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take before starting Saphris.

How to Get a Prescription for Saphris

Saphris is a prescription medication, meaning it’s available only with a prescription from an authorized prescriber. Typically, psychiatrists, primary care physicians, or healthcare professionals specializing in mental health can prescribe Saphris. To obtain a prescription, an individual would need to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider.

This evaluation usually involves discussing symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, and any medications currently being taken. The healthcare provider may conduct physical examinations or order specific tests to determine if Saphris is a suitable and beneficial treatment option for the individual’s condition. Following the assessment, if deemed appropriate, the healthcare provider can prescribe Saphris and provide guidance on its proper use and potential side

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Saphris

Individuals experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder might consider discussing Saphris with their doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist. Questions to ask might involve inquiring about treatment options for managing specific symptoms, potential benefits and side effects of Saphris, and how it may fit into their overall treatment plan.

If you need to find a psychiatrist or are considering changing prescribers, online psychiatry services could be a viable option. These sites offer access to licensed professionals who can assess, prescribe, and monitor medications remotely, ensuring continuity of care and potentially simplifying the transition between prescribers.

Questions to ask your care team about Saphris include:

• How safe is Saphris, and what are the common side effects I should expect?
• What’s the typical adjustment period for someone starting Saphris, and what can I expect during this time?
• Considering my current medications, am I at risk of interactions or heightened side effects when taking Saphris?
• What factors might influence the most appropriate dosage of Saphris for me?
• Are there any specific lifestyle changes or dietary considerations I should be aware of while taking Saphris?
• How will I know if Saphris is effective for my condition, and what signs should I watch for to gauge its effectiveness?
• Are there any particular symptoms or side effects that warrant immediate medical attention while on Saphris?
• What’s the plan for monitoring my progress and managing any potential side effects while on Saphris?
• Can I engage in certain activities like driving or operating machinery while taking Saphris?
• How might Saphris interact with other treatments or therapies I’m currently undergoing?
• Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of before starting Saphris?
• How often should I follow up with you or my care team to assess the effects and adjustments needed while on Saphris?