Asenapine vs. Secuado for Schizophrenia: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Asenapine

(Saphris)

Secuado

(asenapine)

Summary for Asenapine

Prescription only

Asenapine (Saphris) is an atypical antipsychotic. It's used to treat schizophrenia in adults and bipolar I disorder in people ages 10 years and older. It comes as sublingual (under the tongue) tablets in both a brand-name and generic versions. The usual dosage is to dissolve a tablet under the tongue twice a day. Some potential side effects of this medication include sleepiness, trouble sleeping, and movement problems.

Indications for Asenapine

Schizophrenia in adults
Bipolar I disorder in adults and children ages 10 years and older

Pros and Cons for Asenapine

Pros

Dissolved under the tongue; good option for people who have a hard time swallowing tablets
Possible option for children who have bipolar I disorder
Less likely to cause weight gain than some other antipsychotic medications, like olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Cons

Can cause drowsiness or trouble sleeping
Taken twice a day
Can't be taken by people who have severe liver problems

Common Side Effects for Asenapine

Trouble sleeping (up to 16%)
Sleepiness (up to 15%)
Movement problems (up to 12%)
Restlessness (not being able to sit still, up to 11%)
Dizziness (up to 7%)
Constipation (up to 7%)
Vomiting (up to 7%)
Mouth numbness (up to 7%)

*Note: Side effects listed above were reported by adults with schizophrenia. Similar side effects are seen in adults and children with bipolar disorder.

Warnings for Asenapine

Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Difficulty controlling movements
High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and weight gain
Serious allergic reactions
Low blood pressure and changes in heartbeat
Low white blood cell count
Seizures
High prolactin levels
Phenylketonuria

Summary for Secuado

Prescription only

Secuado (asenapine) is a patch that's applied on the skin. It's used for treating adults with schizophrenia. This medication is an atypical antipsychotic that helps balance thoughts, mood, and behaviors. The patches come in 3 different strengths. The typical dose is to apply 1 patch onto the skin once a day. Your wear the patch for 24 hours before replacing it with a new one. Common side effects include skin irritation(s) and uncontrollable muscle movements. Secuado (asenapine) is a brand-name medication; it doesn't have a generic version yet.

Indications for Secuado

Schizophrenia

Pros and Cons for Secuado

Pros

An easy-to-use patch that's placed on the skin
Applied once each day
Good option for people who don't want to take medications by mouth or through injections

Cons

Can cause skin irritation, like redness, itchiness, and discomfort
Not a good option for people with severe liver problems
Not approved for children younger than 18 years of age

Common Side Effects for Secuado

Reaction at the application site (e.g., itchy, redness, irritation, pain; 14-15%)
Uncontrollable muscle movements (8-13%)
Headache (9%)
Weight gain (4-6%)