Vol 9, No 1 (2012)
Review paper
Published online: 2012-05-28
Asenapine — a new atypical antipsychotic
Psychiatria 2012;9(1):27-35.
Abstract
The authors present a review of current knowledge on asenapine, a new atypical antipsychotic agent, which has
recently become available in Poland. Sublingual form was developed to overcome a disadvantageous pharmacokinetic
profile for oral administration. Asenapine is used in the treatment of schizophrenia and mania or mixed
episodes in the course of bipolar affective disorder. Clinical trials confirm its efficacy and safety. Asenapine major
advantage is its neutral metabolic profile combined with antipsychotic and antimanic efficacy comparable to
other atypicals. Improvements in negative symptoms and cognitive deficits in the course of schizophrenia were
noted during the treatment with asenapine. The most common side effects of asenapine include somnolence,
insomnia, nausea and anxiety.
Keywords: asenapineantipsychotic agentsschizophreniabipolar disorder