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Saphris (Asenapine) Information

Saphris, which contains the active ingredient asenapine, is an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is used for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and for the acute treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in both adults and pediatric patients aged 10–17 years. In some cases, saphris may be used as part of long-term maintenance therapy to help prevent relapse of bipolar symptoms. Unlike many other antipsychotic formulations, saphris dissolves under the tongue (sublingually), allowing the medicine to be absorbed quickly without being swallowed. This route of administration is beneficial for individuals who have difficulty swallowing tablets or who need rapid symptom control. Saphris is generally taken twice daily.

The mechanism of action for asenapine involves adjusting the activity of several neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which influence mood, perception, and behavior. Asenapine works by blocking a variety of dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5-HT2) receptors, which helps reduce hallucinations, disorganized thinking, severe mood shifts, and agitation. It also interacts with other receptors involved in mood and cognition, contributing to its broader stabilizing effects in bipolar and psychotic disorders. Sublingual absorption helps avoid significant first-pass metabolism, resulting in more predictable effects.

Saphris Side Effects

Saphris is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur. Common side effects often reported include numbness or tingling of the mouth or tongue (due to the sublingual route), drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, weight gain, increased appetite, dry mouth, constipation, and changes in taste. Pediatric patients may experience increased sleepiness, fatigue, or behavioral changes, and weight gain may be more evident in younger individuals. However, more serious side effects can occur, leading to significant monitoring protocols. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention:
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): High fever, severe muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating, or rapid heartbeat
• Orthostatic hypotension: Sudden dizziness or fainting when standing
• Seizures
• Severe allergic reactions: Rash, swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing
• Severe metabolic changes: Very high blood sugar, unexpected tiredness, excessive thirst, frequent urination
• Severe oral reactions: Significant swelling or persistent numbness of the mouth, tongue discomfort, or difficulty swallowing
• Sudden changes in behavior or suicidal thoughts, especially during treatment initiation or dose adjustments
• Tardive Dyskinesia (TD): Involuntary movements of the face, lips, tongue, or limbs

Saphris Precautions

Do not use saphris if you are allergic to asenapine or any of its ingredients. Saphris may cause allergic reactions that sometimes include swelling of the tongue or throat and difficulty breathing. Before starting treatment, it is essential to discuss your complete medical history with your doctor. Individuals with heart disease, low blood pressure, a history of fainting, arrhythmias, or other cardiovascular conditions may require closer monitoring. Those with diabetes, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, seizures, liver disease, or movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or tardive dyskinesia may also need special precautions.

Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Drugs that affect liver enzymes, sedatives, antihypertensives, antidepressants, and other antipsychotics may interact with saphris and require dose adjustments. Avoid alcohol due to increased risk of drowsiness, impaired judgment, and low blood pressure.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed. Use during the third trimester may cause complications in newborns, including breathing difficulties, muscle stiffness, feeding problems, or jitteriness. Asenapine may pass into breast milk, and a discussion with your doctor will help determine the safest option. Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Saphris is available only as a sublingual tablet. Place it under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. Do not chew, crush, or swallow the tablet. Eating or drinking should be avoided for 10 minutes after the dose to ensure proper absorption. Saphris is usually taken twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, and consistent timing helps maintain stable levels in the body. Do not stop using saphris or change your dose without talking to your doctor, as sudden changes may cause symptoms to return or worsen. Some improvement may appear within a few days, while full benefits may take several weeks, depending on the condition being treated. Saphris may cause numbness of the mouth shortly after dosing. This effect is temporary and typically resolves within minutes. Saphris can cause sedation and impair alertness, caution should be used when driving or operating machinery. Store saphris at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until you are ready to use them to protect them from moisture.

Do I need a prescription to order Saphris?

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