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Home > Drug Category > Psychiatric Medication > Zeldox and Equivalent

Zeldox (Ziprasidone) Information

Zeldox, which contains the active ingredient ziprasidone, is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. For schizophrenia, it can help reduce hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and agitation. For bipolar disorder, it is used to manage acute manic or mixed episodes and may help stabilize mood over time. Zeldox is taken by mouth as a capsule, typically twice daily with food. Taking it with a meal is important because it significantly improves the medication's absorption and helps maintain steady levels in the body.

The mechanism of action of ziprasidone involves blocking dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors in the brain, helping restore balance to neurotransmitter systems that regulate mood, thinking, and perception. It also affects additional serotonin receptors (5-HT1A and 5-HT1D), which may support mood-stabilizing and antidepressant effects. Ziprasidone slightly blocks the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, which can further help with mood and anxiety symptoms in some people. This combination of actions reduces psychotic symptoms and stabilizes mood while generally causing less sedation and fewer metabolic side effects than some other antipsychotics.

Zeldox Side Effects

Zeldox is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects may occur. Common side effects include drowsiness, sleepiness, nausea, dizziness (especially when standing), restlessness, mild weight gain, constipation, and headache. Some people may also experience stomach discomfort, fatigue, or sleep disturbances. Adolescents may experience increased restlessness or drowsiness when starting treatment.

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 (possible QT prolongation)
• Seizures
• Signs of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), including high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating, and rapid heartbeat
• Signs of severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, rash
• Signs of Tardive Dyskinesia (TD), including involuntary movements of the face, lips, tongue, or limbs
• Sudden changes in mood, worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts
• Symptoms of high blood sugar, including excessive thirst, frequent urination, and confusion

Zeldox Precautions

Do not use Zeldox if you are allergic to ziprasidone or any other ingredient in the medication. It should not be used by people with a known history of certain heart rhythm disorders, including long QT syndrome. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history. People with heart disease, low potassium or magnesium levels, liver problems, diabetes, seizures, or movement disorders may require additional monitoring. Because ziprasidone can affect the heart's electrical activity, your doctor may recommend ECG monitoring, especially when adjusting your dose. Zeldox is not approved for use in older adults with dementia-related psychosis, as this can increase the risk of death.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Zeldox can interact with drugs that affect heart rhythm, certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, antibiotics, antifungals, seizure medications, and drugs that influence liver enzymes. Avoid alcohol and sedatives as they may increase drowsiness and impair coordination. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Use during the last trimester may cause complications in newborns, such as breathing or feeding difficulties or muscle stiffness. If breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits, as it is unknown how much ziprasidone passes into breast milk.

Take Zeldox exactly as prescribed, usually twice daily with food containing at least 500 calories to ensure proper absorption. Taking it with a light snack or on an empty stomach reduces the medication's effectiveness by about half. Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain stable medication levels. Do not stop taking Zeldox suddenly unless your doctor directs you to do so. Stopping suddenly may worsen your symptoms. Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light, and keep it out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Zeldox?

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