Schizophrenia Drugs and Potential Interactions

Antipsychotic medications help keep your schizophrenia under control and prevent symptoms. But these medicines sometimes don't mix well with other drugs you take. They can also interact with herbal supplements and with some foods and drinks.

The result of interactions can be side effects, or even problems with your medicines not working as well as they should. Some interactions are mild. Others are more serious. Ask your doctor what signs to look for, and when to call.

Antipsychotic medicines already cause drowsiness. Drinking alcohol with your medicine can make you extra sleepy. Caffeine also can lead to side effects. Smoking can decrease the levels of medicines for schizophrenia that are active in your blood.

Grapefruit can dangerously raise blood levels of some antipsychotic medication. Herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and kava also can cause serious interactions.

Symptoms may include dizziness, muscle stiffness or spasms, seizures, excessive sleepiness, or an unsteady heartbeat. Call your doctor if you have any of these side effects.

Every time you get a new prescription, go over your whole list of medicines with your doctor and pharmacist. Ask them to check that none of your prescriptions interact with each other. Tell your doctor about vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you buy without a prescription.