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Sycrest (Asenapine) Information

Sycrest, which contains the active ingredient asenapine, is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat moderate to severe manic episodes in adults with bipolar I disorder. It helps reduce symptoms such as elevated mood, irritability, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, and agitation. Sycrest is taken as a sublingual tablet, which dissolves under the tongue. This method allows the medication to enter the bloodstream quickly, leading to a faster onset and steadier levels than swallowing a tablet.

The mechanism of action of asenapine involves blocking several neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, including dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors. Reducing excessive dopamine activity helps control symptoms of mania, such as overstimulation and impulsivity. Blocking serotonin receptors contributes to mood stabilization, decreased anxiety, and improved emotional regulation. Asenapine also affects adrenergic and histamine receptors, which may contribute to its calming effects. The sublingual formulation ensures reliable absorption and supports stable symptom improvement.

Sycrest Side Effects

Sycrest is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur. Common side effects include drowsiness or sedation, dizziness, restlessness (akathisia), weight gain, and increased appetite. Some people may also experience oral numbness or tingling shortly after the tablet dissolves, changes in taste, dry mouth, or mild nausea.

More serious side effects can occur, leading to significant monitoring protocols. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
• Irregular heartbeat, fainting, or severe dizziness
• Seizures
• Signs of high blood sugar, including extreme thirst, frequent urination, and confusion
• Signs of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), including high fever, muscle stiffness, sweating, confusion, and fast heartbeat
• Signs of severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, rash
• Signs of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), including involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or limbs
• Sudden mood or behavior changes, including suicidal thoughts

Sycrest Precautions

Do not use Sycrest if you are allergic to asenapine or any of the ingredients in the drug. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history. People with heart disease, low blood pressure, a history of stroke, diabetes, high cholesterol, liver problems, seizures, or movement disorders may require careful monitoring. Because Sycrest can affect weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol, your doctor may recommend routine medical exams. Sycrest should not be used in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, because of the increased risk of death.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Sycrest can interact with other antipsychotics, antidepressants, seizure medications, blood pressure medicines, and drugs that affect liver enzymes. Avoid alcohol and sedatives due to increased drowsiness and impaired coordination.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Using Sycrest late in pregnancy may cause breathing or feeding problems in newborns. It is unknown how much asenapine passes into breast milk. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when breastfeeding with your doctor. Take Sycrest exactly as prescribed, usually once or twice daily. Place the tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. Do not chew or swallow it whole. Avoid eating or drinking anything, including water, for at least 10 minutes after taking the dose to ensure proper absorption. Swallowing the tablet whole prevents it from working as intended. Do not stop taking Sycrest suddenly unless your doctor advises you to. Stopping this medication suddenly may worsen your symptoms. Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Sycrest?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Sycrest.