What is Zomaril used to treat?
Zomaril is the former name of a brand name medication called iloperidone, which currently known as Fanapt. Zomaril is an atypical antipsychotic used to improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors in people schizophrenia. Like other drugs used to treat schizophrenia, the method of action that produces its therapeutic effect is unknown.
Brand and Generic Names:
Fanapt is the current brand name for the medication iloperidone, formerly known as Zomaril. Its name was changed years ago by its manufacturer Novartis in response to the FDA’s concerns about possible confusion with another product. There is no generic version of iloperidone.
Zomaril dosage:
As with other medications, dosage for Zomaril will vary based on medical condition, potential interactions with other drugs, and response to treatment. Zomaril is known to cause low blood pressure when starting or increasing the dose, so it is likely that a doctor will prescribe this mediation starting with a low dose and working up to an optimal dose. This process could take 1-2 weeks.
The approved dosage for Zomaril is between 12-24mg. Examination on Zomaril’s safety and tolerability showed that this drug was fairly well tolerated at 5mg per day with side effects ranging from mild to moderate in severity. The side effects decreased when the medication was taken with food. Although 5mg is less than the recommended dose, there are reports of improved tolerability.
Side Effects
Zomaril is known to have common side effects such as:
- dizziness,
- drowsiness,
- lightheadedness,
- dry mouth, tiredness,
- stuffy nose,
- and weight gain.
This medication may also cause a serious drop in blood pressure.
Let a medical professional know if you have more serious side effects like drooling/trouble swallowing, signs of infection like a lingering cough, shaking or tremors, muscle spasms, or interrupted breathing during sleep.
Get medical help right away if you experience any of the following symptoms or conditions:
- fainting,
- fast/irregular heartbeat,
- seizures,
- severe dizziness,
- chest pain, fever,
- muscle stiffness/pain/tenderness/weakness,
- severe tiredness,
- severe confusion,
- sweating, dark urine,
- signs of kidney problems,
- rash,
- itching/swelling of the face/tongue/throat, or
- trouble breathing.
Does Zomaril cause weight gain?
Similar to other atypical antipsychotics as well as other mental health medications, Zomaril is known to cause weight gain. In studies comparing Zomaril to two other antipsychotics, Zomaril was shown to cause more weight gain in both cases.
Zomaril cost
Zomaril, now known as Fanapt, can be very expensive even with insurance. No generic version of Zomaril (iloperidone) is available at this time. You can use eNavvi to check the cost of this medication through your health plan in your location.
Disclaimer
The information included in this page is not a substitute for medical advice. The list of side effects may not include all side effects as drugs can affect all people differently. Any dosage information may not include all dosage information. It is important to discuss with a medical professional that knows your medical history well which dosage is right for you and if there are any potential risks or possible side effects. Our goal is to provide relevant information but this page may not include all up-to-date information.