Asenapine — a new atypical antipsychotic

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.