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Asenapine

This form:

Pronounced

"a-SEN-a-peen"

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia). Asenapine belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Instructions for Use leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using asenapine patch and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

The asenapine patch is for use only on the skin. Apply the patch to the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once daily (every 24 hours). Remove the old patch first before applying a new patch. Do not wear 2 patches at the same time. To prevent skin irritation, change where you apply a new patch each time. When changing your patch, remove the old patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together, and throw it away out of reach of children and pets.

Do not open the sealed pouch for the new patch until you are ready to use it. Open the pouch and remove the protective liner from the patch as directed. Do not cut the patch. Apply the patch as directed to a clean, dry, hairless area on the upper arm, upper back, abdomen, or hip. Do not apply the patch on skin that has cuts, scrapes, burns, rash, redness, or other skin problems. Do not apply the patch on skin that has lotions, oils, or powders on it. Avoid applying it to areas where tight clothing may rub the patch off. Wash your hands with soap and water after applying the patch. Do not wear the patch longer than 24 hours.

You may shower with the patch on. However, avoid bathing or swimming while wearing the patch, since these may cause the patch to fall off. Avoid heat sources (such as a hair dryer, heating pad, electric blanket, or heated water bed) at the application site.

Check the patch regularly during the day to make sure it is still firmly stuck to your skin, especially after showering, using the bathroom, changing clothes, sleeping, or sweating. If the patch edges lift off your skin, smooth them down and press them firmly back in place. If the patch falls off before it is due to be changed, apply a new patch right away. Replace the new patch at the regular time the next day. Do not try to reapply the old patch or use tape to keep a loose patch from falling off.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, apply it at the same time each day.

It is very important to keep using this medication exactly as prescribed, even if you are feeling better and thinking more clearly. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.