Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor even if you feel well. Do not take more of this medicine and do not take it more often than your doctor ordered. This medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To keep blood levels constant, take this medicine at the same time each day and do not miss any doses.

This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

You must take this medicine with food (containing at least 350 calories).

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are using this medicine.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • For schizophrenia:
      • Adults—At first, 40 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 160 mg per day.
      • Children 13 to 17 years of age—At first, 40 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 80 mg per day.
      • Children younger than 13 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For depression:
      • Adults—At first, 20 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 120 mg per day.
      • Children 10 to 17 years of age—At first, 20 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 80 mg per day.
      • Children younger than 10 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.