Amisulpride
Information about Amisulpride
Amisulpride uses
Amisulpride is used in the treatment of schizophrenia.
How amisulpride works
Amisulpride is an atypical antipsychotic. It works by modulating the action of certain chemical messengers in the brain that affect thoughts.
Common side effects of amisulpride
Nausea, Vomiting, Dryness in mouth, Constipation, Weight gain, Decreased blood pressure, Dystonia, Akathisia, Parkinsonism, Increased prolactin level in blood
Content Details
Last updated on:
27 Dec 2019 | 01:08 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Amisulpride
- Amisulpride helps treat schizophrenia.
- Take it at bedtime to avoid feeling sleepy during the day.
- Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Amisulpride can cause dizziness and sleepiness.
- To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- Do not consume alcohol while on treatment with this medicine as it may worsen the side effects.
- It may cause increased weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides (fat) levels. Eat healthy and exercise regularly.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
- Do not stop taking Amisulpride without talking to your doctor first as it may cause worsening of symptoms.
Frequently asked questions for Amisulpride
Amisulpride
Q. Does Amisulpride make you sleepy?
Yes, Amisulpride may make you sleepy, drowsy, less alert, and may even blur your vision. If you experience these symptoms you should not drive or operate heavy machinery.
Q. When should I take Amisulpride?
The time of taking the medicine will be suggested by your doctor depending upon your dose. Doses up to 300 mg can be taken anytime of the day but preferably at the same time each day. Doses more than 300 mg can be taken half in the morning and half in the evening. You can take the medicine during or between meals.
Q. What does Amisulpride do to the brain?
Amisulpride belongs to antipsychotic class of medicines. It acts against dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter which helps in regulating mood and behavior. Schizophrenia is associated with an overactivity of dopamine in the brain, and this overactivity may cause delusions and hallucinations. Amisulpride prevents this excessive activity of dopamine in the brain which helps in treating symptoms of schizophrenia.
Q. Does Amisulpride help with anxiety?
No, there is no data to support the use of Amisulpride in the treatment of anxiety. On the contrary, anxiety is a common side effect of Amisulpride.
Q. Can I stop taking Amisulpride after some time?
No, you should keep taking Amisulpride as long as your doctor has advised. Do not stop the medication even if you feel better. Stopping it suddenly may worsen your condition or symptoms may come back. Talk to your doctor who will gradually reduce your dose.
Q. Who should not take Amisulpride?
You should not take Amisulpride if you are under 15 years of age, allergic to it, have breast cancer or a tumor known as prolactinoma. Avoid taking Amisulpride if you are breastfeeding, have tumor of adrenal glands (pheochromocytoma), or if you are taking certain medicines like levodopa, medicines to treat heart rhythm disorders, etc.
Q. Is Amisulpride addictive?
No, there is no evidence to say that Amisulpride causes addiction. Also, its use is not known to have any tendency for abuse.
Q. What are the withdrawal symptoms of Amisulpride?
Suddenly stopping Amisulpride may cause withdrawal symptoms which include nausea, vomiting, sweating, difficulty sleeping, extreme restlessness, muscle stiffness or abnormal movements, or your original condition may come back. Therefore, it is advised to gradually reduce the dose of Amisulpride.