Key takeaways
Ziprasidone (Geodon) and fluphenazine (Prolixin - brand no longer available) are both antipsychotic medications, but they belong to different classes and have some key differences. Ziprasidone is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat bipolar I disorder and schizophrenia, while fluphenazine is a typical antipsychotic used for psychotic disorders. Ziprasidone works by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain and is taken twice daily with food. Fluphenazine, on the other hand, primarily blocks dopamine activity and can be taken multiple times a day or as a long-acting injection every 4 to 6 weeks. Common side effects of ziprasidone include sleepiness and nausea, while fluphenazine often causes drowsiness and movement problems. Both medications can cause serious side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome and tardive dyskinesia, but fluphenazine has a higher risk of permanent movement issues with long-term use. Additionally, ziprasidone is less likely to cause weight gain compared to other antipsychotics, whereas fluphenazine can lead to weight changes and fluid retention.
