Orap

Common Name: pimozide

How does Orap work?

Pimozide belongs to the class of medications called antipsychotics. It is used for the management of the symptoms of certain types of chronic schizophrenia. It works by affecting the way messages are sent in the central nervous system (CNS). Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Orap?

The recommended starting dose of pimozide ranges from 2 mg to 4 mg once daily, taken in the morning. Your doctor will gradually increase your dose up to a maximum of 20 mg daily. The goal is to find the dose where the best effects occur with the least amount of side effects. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Orap come in?

Orap® is available in strengths of 2 mg and 4 mg. 2 mg: Each white, round, flat face bevelled-edged tablet, scored and embossed "PIM 2" on the same side, contains pimozide 2 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, lactose, and microcrystalline cellulose. 4 mg: Each green, round, flat-faced, bevelled-edged tablet, scored and embossed "PIM 4" on the same side, contains pimozide 4 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Yellow No. 5 (tartrazine), lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, and starch (corn). Sodium: <1 mmol (<1 mg). This medication does not contain gluten or sodium metabisulfite.

What should I NOT take with Orap?

Pimozide should not be taken by anyone who: is sedated or in a comatose state has liver disorders has a depressive disorder has reduced kidney function has blood disorders has an allergy to pimozide or any of the ingredients of the medication has Parkinson's disease has certain types of abnormal heart rhythms has low blood potassium or magnesium levels has a severely reduced heart rate is taking any of the classes of medications known as "azole"-antifungals, antiviral protease inhibitors, or macrolide antibiotics (erythromycins) is taking nefazodone or quinidine

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Orap?

Blood pressure: People who take pimozide may develop very low blood pressure causing dizziness and lightheadedness. Some individuals, especially seniors or those who are debilitated, have had temporary low blood pressure for several hours after taking the medication. Epilepsy: Since pimozide may lower the convulsive (seizure) threshold, it should be used with caution by people with epilepsy. Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice prevents pimozide from being broken down (metabolized) in the body. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice if you take pimozide. Liver disease: People with liver disease should use caution while taking this medication because pimozide is broken down (metabolized) in the liver. Occupational hazards: Pimozide may reduce alertness, especially at the start of treatment. Alcohol may increase these effects. Avoid tasks requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you determine if the medication affects you this way. Tardive dyskinesia: As with all antipsychotic medications, a syndrome called tardive dyskinesia may appear for some people on long-term therapy or after they stop taking the medication. The syndrome's main features are rhythmical involuntary movements of the tongue, face, mouth, or jaw. Tell the doctor if you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone else taking pimozide. Pregnancy: The safe of use of pimozide during pregnancy has not been established. It should not be taken by women who are or may become pregnant, particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy, unless, in the opinion of the doctor, the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks. Breast-feeding: Pimozide may pass into breast milk. If the use of pimozide is considered essential, stop breast-feeding. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established for use by children. Its use by this age group is not recommended.