Saphris goes by the trade name Sycrest internationally, marketed by Lundbeck.
Prescription Saphris, contains the active ingredient asenapine which is classified as an atypical antipsychotic medicine. Saphris works in the brain to change some of the chemical action. Saphris is a sublingual tablet, which means that it is taken under the tongue and not swallowed. Saphris can be used in adults to treat schizophrenia but is most commonly used by children 10 to 17 years old in the treatment plan of bipoloar I disorder. Saphris in not used to treat dementia related psychosis in the United States.
Read the instructions for Saphris carefully and follow those instructions without failure.
Some highlights of Saphris directions include being sure your hands are dry before handling, do not remove from packaging until ready to use Saphris. Do not split, crush or cut Saphris as it is taken whole under the tongue. Do not swallow Saphris and be sure not to eat or drink for 10 minutes while Saphris is dissolving in your mouth.
Your Saphris dose is usually started at 5mg twice per day and may be increased to 10mg twice per day after the first week of treatment.
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Information about Saphris (Asenapine)
Saphris, containing the active ingredient asenapine, is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat certain mental health disorders. It works by balancing the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which helps to manage symptoms associated with conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Asenapine is known for its effectiveness in controlling both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, as well as in stabilizing mood in individuals with bipolar disorder.
Product Highlights
Saphris is used for the treatment of schizophrenia, a chronic mental disorder characterized by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.
It is used in the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, helping to stabilize mood swings and improve overall functioning.
In some cases, Saphris may be prescribed for long-term maintenance in bipolar disorder to prevent future manic episodes.
Key Ingredient
Asenapine
Key Benefits
Saphris helps manage both the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia and the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder.
Asenapine’s sublingual formulation allows for rapid absorption, leading to faster relief of symptoms compared to oral tablets.
Compared to other antipsychotics, Saphris generally has a lower risk of weight gain, a common side effect of many atypical antipsychotic medications.
In patients with schizophrenia, Saphris may improve cognitive and functional outcomes, leading to better overall functioning.
Saphris is effective in treating acute manic episodes in patients with bipolar I disorder, helping to restore mood stability.
Direction of Use
Saphris is taken as a sublingual tablet, which should be placed under the tongue to allow it to dissolve.
The usual starting dose for adults is 5 mg twice daily for schizophrenia, and 10 mg twice daily for acute mania in bipolar disorder. Dosage may be adjusted depending on the patient's response and tolerability.
To ensure proper absorption, avoid eating or drinking for at least 10 minutes after taking the tablet.
It is crucial to take Saphris consistently as directed by your healthcare provider. It may take several weeks for full therapeutic effects to be seen.
Starting Dose
Recommended Dose
Maximum Dose
Schizophrenia – acute treatment in adults
5 mg sublingually twice daily
5 mg sublingually twice daily
10 mg sublingually twice daily
Schizophrenia – maintenance treatment in adults
5 mg sublingually twice daily
5-10 mg sublingually twice daily
10 mg sublingually twice daily
Bipolar mania adults: acute and maintenance monotherapy
5-10 mg sublingually twice daily
5-10 mg sublingually twice daily
10 mg sublingually twice daily
Bipolar mania – pediatric patients (10 to 17 years): monotherapy
2.5 mg sublingually twice daily
2.5-10 mg sublingually twice daily
10 mg sublingually twice daily
Bipolar mania – adults: as an adjunct to lithium or valproate
5 mg sublingually twice daily
5-10 mg sublingually twice daily
10 mg sublingually twice daily
Safety Concerns
Asenapine can cause drowsiness or sedation, especially when starting the medication, so patients should avoid activities requiring full alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.
Like many atypical antipsychotics, Saphris may cause weight gain, increased blood sugar, and elevated cholesterol levels. Regular monitoring of weight and metabolic parameters is advised.
Although less common than with older antipsychotics, Saphris can cause movement-related side effects, such as tremors or stiffness.
There is a risk of prolonged QT interval, which can lead to serious heart rhythm issues. Patients with a history of heart conditions should be closely monitored.
Some patients may experience dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing up due to a drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension).
A rare but potentially fatal condition characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction may occur. Immediate medical attention is required if symptoms develop.
As with other antipsychotic medications, there may be an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in younger patients.
Avoid Saphris (Asenapine) If
If you are allergic to asenapine or any other ingredients in Saphris, you should refrain from taking this medication.
Patients with severe liver problems should avoid Saphris, as the liver metabolizes asenapine.
Avoid Saphris if you have heart problems such as QT prolongation or other cardiac issues that may be worsened by the medication.
If you have a history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome or other severe reactions to antipsychotics, Saphris may not be appropriate.
Saphris should be used with caution during pregnancy and is generally not recommended while breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and affect the baby.
Avoid using Saphris if you have severe depression or have had suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, or young adults. Close monitoring is essential.
