What it is used for
- Treating schizophrenia, both acute episodes and long-term
- In some countries, treating long-lasting mild low mood (dysthymia), as decided by a specialist
How it is used
- Tablets are taken by mouth exactly as your doctor prescribed; your doctor decides the dose
- Swallow them with water, preferably before meals
- Keep taking it even if you feel better, and do not stop without asking your doctor
Possible side effects
- A raised milk hormone (prolactin), which can cause breast swelling, milk discharge, period changes or sexual problems
- Restlessness, tremor or muscle stiffness
- Sleepiness or difficulty sleeping
- Weight gain
Who should not use it
- Do not take it if you are allergic to amisulpride or any ingredient in the tablets
- Tumours that depend on prolactin, such as some pituitary or breast tumours
- Phaeochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal gland)
- Children who have not reached puberty
Before and while using it
- It can affect heart rhythm; tell your doctor if you have heart disease or low potassium, as you may need a heart tracing (ECG)
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, epilepsy or have had blood clots
- In older people with dementia, antipsychotics increase the risk of stroke and death
- Get urgent help for high fever with stiff muscles and confusion, or for palpitations or fainting
- It can cause sleepiness; do not drive until you know how it affects you, and avoid alcohol
Medicine interactions
- Other medicines that affect heart rhythm, such as some heart rhythm medicines, some antibiotics, and other antipsychotics and antidepressants
- Levodopa and other Parkinson's medicines, as each reduces the effect of the other
- Alcohol and sedating medicines add to the sleepiness
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy; use late in pregnancy can cause temporary symptoms in the newborn, and do not stop it without asking your doctor
- It is not recommended while breastfeeding unless your doctor advises it
How to store it
- Store at room temperature away from heat and moisture, out of the sight and reach of children.
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.