ziprasidone (Geodon)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antipsychotic medication like ziprasidone (Geodon) may be right for you.

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What is an antipsychotic?

Antipsychotics are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, like hearing and seeing things that other people do not, feeling paranoid, or having delusions.

How does an antipsychotic work?

Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine in the brain, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic symptoms.

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find a provider who meets your needs

    Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).

  • 2

    Meet 1:1 to begin treatment

    Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Attend sessions and start feeling better

    Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.

FAQs

What is ziprasidone (Geodon) used for?

Ziprasidone (Geodon) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder. It may also be used with lithium or valproate for maintenance of bipolar disorder. The medication may also be used off-label to treat types of depression, hypomania, delirium, and agitation. An off-label use is when a medication is used for a purpose other than its approved use(s).

Does ziprasidone (Geodon) cause weight gain or loss?

Weight gain or weight loss were not reported side effects in studies of people taking Ziprasidone. If you have concerns about weight changes with Ziprasidone treatment, talk with your doctor.

Is ziprasidone (Geodon) a controlled substance?

No, ziprasidone is not a controlled substance. It is not habit-forming and is not known to cause addiction. If you have other questions about how Ziprasidone works, talk with your provider.

Can ziprasidone (Geodon) cause insomnia?

Insomnia (trouble sleeping) was not a side effect reported in people taking Ziprasidone. However, sleep pattern changes may happen if Ziprasidone is not managing your condition. Ziprasidone may also cause sleepiness in some people, particularly when you first begin taking the medication. If you're having trouble sleeping, call your provider and discuss your concerns.

How long does ziprasidone (Geodon) stay in your system?

Ziprasidone has a half-life of 7 to 10 hours. This is how long it takes for half of the medication to leave your body after you've taken a dose. Typically, it takes about five half-lives for a medication to leave your system completely, so it may take a few days for the medication to completely clear from your body.

How long does it take for ziprasidone (Geodon) to work?

Ziprasidone starts to work within a few hours of you taking a dose. However, it may take several weeks to months of taking the medication regularly before you notice an improvement in your condition. If you feel ziprasidone isn't working for you, talk with your provider.

What happens if you stop taking ziprasidone (Geodon) suddenly?

Suddenly stopping ziprasidone may worsen your condition. You may also have side effects such as panic attacks, anxiety, worsening depression, delusions, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, headache, or other serious side effects. It's important to take your medication exactly as prescribed by your provider. Do not suddenly stop taking ziprasidone. If you want to stop taking the medication, talk to your provider; they can discuss your options and slowly stop the medication to lower your risk of certain side effects.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published December 3, 2024

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Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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