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Amisulpride medication: uses, dosage, and side effects explained
Summary of Key Points
Amisulpride is a medication primarily used to manage mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety disorders. It works by influencing specific brain chemicals to improve mood, reduce symptoms of psychosis, and alleviate anxiety. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking Amisulpride and consult your doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Barhemsys
Generic Name: Amisulpride
The “generic name” refers to the active ingredient in the medication, which remains the same across different brands. The generic name is often listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Amisulpride belongs to the following pharmacologic categories:
- Antipsychotic (Second Generation)
- Dopamine D2/D3 Receptor Antagonist
Amisulpride Dosage
Amisulpride is prescribed for various mental health conditions, with the dosage tailored to the specific condition being treated. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. If needed, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with us today.
Amisulpride for Schizophrenia
Initial Dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day, divided into two doses
Maintenance Dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Schizoaffective Disorder
Initial Dose: 400 mg per day, divided into two doses
Maintenance Dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Depression
Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 50 mg to 200 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: As directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Anxiety Disorders
Initial Dose: 50 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: As directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Psychotic Disorders
Initial Dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day, divided into two doses
Maintenance Dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Bipolar Disorder
Initial Dose: 200 mg to 400 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 200 mg to 400 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: As directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Delusional Disorder
Initial Dose: 400 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: Long-term treatment, as directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 50 mg to 200 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: As directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 50 mg to 200 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: As directed by your doctor
Amisulpride for Personality Disorders
Initial Dose: 50 mg to 100 mg per day
Maintenance Dose: 50 mg to 200 mg per day, depending on response
Duration: As directed by your doctor
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Amisulpride is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
- Tablets: 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg
- Injectable Solution: 5 mg/mL
Contraindications for Amisulpride
A contraindication is a specific situation where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not take Amisulpride. Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers to discuss your medical history before starting any new medication.
- Severe Kidney Disease: Amisulpride is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. Impaired kidney function can lead to harmful side effects due to medication buildup.
- Breast Cancer: Amisulpride can increase prolactin levels, which may stimulate the growth of certain breast cancers. If you have a history of breast cancer, this medication may not be safe for you.
- Severe Liver Disease: The liver processes medications. Severe liver disease may prevent proper metabolism of Amisulpride, increasing the risk of side effects.
- Parkinson’s Disease: Amisulpride can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms by affecting dopamine, a neurotransmitter already deficient in people with this condition.
- Allergy to Amisulpride: If you have had an allergic reaction to Amisulpride, you should not take it again, as it could lead to serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
- Prolonged QT Interval: Amisulpride can affect the heart’s electrical activity, leading to QT prolongation, which may cause dangerous heart rhythms. If you have a history of this condition, Amisulpride may not be safe for you.
Drug-to-Drug Interactions with Amisulpride
Amisulpride can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. Below are some common medications that may interact with Amisulpride. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Levodopa (Sinemet): Levodopa is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Since Amisulpride affects dopamine, it can reduce Levodopa’s effectiveness.
- Antiarrhythmics (Amiodarone, Sotalol): These medications treat abnormal heart rhythms. When taken with Amisulpride, they can increase the risk of QT prolongation, leading to dangerous heart rhythms.
- Antidepressants (Citalopram, Escitalopram): These medications can also prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of heart-related side effects when taken with Amisulpride.
- Antipsychotics (Haloperidol, Risperidone): Taking multiple antipsychotics can increase the risk of side effects such as sedation, weight gain, and QT prolongation.
- Antifungals (Ketoconazole, Itraconazole): These medications can increase Amisulpride levels in your blood, raising the risk of side effects.
Amisulpride in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Amisulpride during pregnancy?
Research on the safety of Amisulpride during pregnancy is still limited. While animal studies have shown some potential risks, there is not enough data from human studies to make definitive conclusions. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of taking Amisulpride with your healthcare provider. In some cases, managing your mental health condition may be more important than the potential risks to your pregnancy. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision that prioritizes both your health and your baby’s well-being.
Amisulpride While Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Amisulpride while breastfeeding?
Amisulpride is passed into breast milk, which may pose risks to a nursing infant, including possible sedation and developmental delays. If you are breastfeeding, it’s important to discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider. In some cases, you may need to consider stopping breastfeeding or switching to a different medication. Our telemedicine providers can help you carefully weigh the risks and benefits to make the best decision for both you and your baby.
Estimated Cost of Amisulpride Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Amisulpride without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and your location. With a GoodRX coupon, the estimated cost typically ranges from $50 to $150 for a 30-day supply. Be sure to check with your local pharmacy for the most accurate pricing, and consider using a coupon to help reduce the cost.
Possible Alternatives to Amisulpride
If Amisulpride isn’t the right medication for you, there are other treatment options available depending on your specific condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers are here to discuss these alternatives with you.
Schizophrenia: Other antipsychotics, such as Risperidone, Olanzapine, or Aripiprazole, may be effective. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle changes, like stress management and regular exercise, can also provide additional support.
Schizoaffective Disorder: A combination of antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, such as Lithium or Valproate, may be recommended. Psychotherapy and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can also be beneficial.
Depression: Antidepressants like Sertraline or Escitalopram may be suitable alternatives. Incorporating regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can further support mental health.
Anxiety Disorders: Medications such as Buspirone or SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine) may be prescribed. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relaxation techniques, including yoga and meditation, can also be helpful.
Psychotic Disorders: Other antipsychotics, such as Quetiapine or Haloperidol, may be considered. Psychotherapy and strong social support are key components of treatment.
Bipolar Disorder: Mood stabilizers like Lithium or Lamotrigine, often combined with antipsychotics, may be used. Maintaining regular sleep patterns, engaging in physical activity, and avoiding alcohol or drugs can help manage symptoms.
Delusional Disorder: Antipsychotic medications, such as Risperidone or Aripiprazole, may be prescribed. Therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can also be highly effective.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): SSRIs like Fluoxetine or Sertraline are commonly used. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), especially exposure and response prevention (ERP), is a proven treatment approach.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): SSRIs like Paroxetine or Sertraline are often prescribed. Trauma-focused therapies, such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), can also be beneficial.
Personality Disorders: Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, with approaches like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) being particularly effective. Medications may be used to manage specific symptoms as needed.
Recent Updates on Amisulpride Research
Recent studies have explored the use of Amisulpride in treating the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as social withdrawal and lack of motivation, which are often challenging to address with other antipsychotics. Some research suggests that Amisulpride may be more effective than other medications in targeting these symptoms due to its unique action on dopamine receptors. Additionally, ongoing research is investigating the use of Amisulpride in combination with other medications for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety disorders. However, more clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. Be sure to discuss any new treatment options with your healthcare provider, and consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment to explore the latest research and how it may apply to your care.
