asenapine (Saphris)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antipsychotic medication like asenapine (Saphris) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
schizophrenia, bipolar disorder

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is an antipsychotic?

Antipsychotics are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, like hearing and seeing things that other people do not, feeling paranoid, or having delusions.

How does an antipsychotic work?

Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine in the brain, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic symptoms.

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FAQs about asenapine (Saphris)

What is asenapine (Saphris) used for?

Asenapine (Saphris) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder.

Can asenapine (Saphris) cause depression?

Asenapine is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. Symptoms of bipolar disorder may include mood changes and even depression. If you're experiencing depression with asenapine treatment, call your provider. They can discuss your options, including dosage changes or switching to a different medication to manage depression symptoms.

Does asenapine (Saphris) cause weight gain or loss?

Yes, increased appetite and weight gain are common side effects of taking asenapine. If you're concerned about weight gain with asenapine treatment, talk with your doctor. They can discuss ways to manage a healthy weight while you're taking asenapine.

Does asenapine (Saphris) make you sleepy?

Yes, sleepiness and drowsiness are common in people taking asenapine, and you may experience sleepiness when you first start taking the medication. Until you know how asenapine affects you, don't drive or operate machinery. If the sleepiness is bothersome or doesn't go away, talk with your provider. They may suggest ways to help with this side effect.

Is asenapine (Saphris) a controlled substance?

No, asenapine is not a controlled substance. It is not habit-forming, nor is it known to cause addiction. If you have questions about how asenapine works, talk with your provider to learn more.

Does asenapine (Saphris) start working immediately?

No—although asenapine starts to work soon after you take a dose, it may take 1-2 weeks before you notice a change in your condition. Keep in mind that it may take several weeks to months of consistently taking asenapine before you feel its full benefits. If you have questions about how well asenapine is working to treat your condition, talk with your provider.

How long does asenapine (Saphris) stay in your system?

Asenapine's half-life is 24 hours. This is how long it takes for half the medication to leave your body. It takes around five half-lives for a medication to leave your body completely, so it would take about this long for asenapine to leave your system.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published December 10, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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