From the FDA Drug Label
- 15 Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment Iloperidone, like other antipsychotics, may cause somnolence and has the potential to impair judgment, thinking or motor skills. The answer is: Yes, Fanapt (iloperidone) may cause memory issues, as it has the potential to impair judgment and thinking. 1
From the Research
Fanapt (iloperidone) can cause memory issues as a side effect, and patients taking this medication should be monitored for cognitive changes, particularly in elderly patients or those on higher doses. This antipsychotic medication, used primarily to treat schizophrenia, works by blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, which can affect cognitive functions including memory. Memory problems are considered less common side effects but have been reported by some patients taking Fanapt 2. The risk may increase with higher doses or in elderly patients. These cognitive effects typically involve short-term memory difficulties, trouble concentrating, or mental fogginess.
Key Points to Consider
- Iloperidone is a second-generation antipsychotic drug approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults, with a unique mechanism of action involving D2/5HT2a receptor antagonism 3, 4.
- The medication has a tolerability profile characterized by modest weight gain, no medically important changes in lipid and glucose levels, little prolactin elevation, and an absence of extrapyramidal side effects, including akathisia 4, 5.
- However, iloperidone can prolong the QTc interval on electrocardiogram and may be associated with dizziness, dry mouth, somnolence, nasal congestion, fatigue, sedation, and tachycardia, particularly at higher doses 5, 6.
- If you're experiencing memory issues while taking Fanapt, it's essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider rather than stopping the medication abruptly, as they may consider adjusting your dosage, switching to a different antipsychotic medication with potentially fewer cognitive side effects, or implementing strategies to manage these symptoms 2.
Management of Memory Issues
- Patients taking Fanapt should be regularly assessed for cognitive changes and monitored for the development of memory problems.
- Healthcare providers should consider the potential for cognitive side effects when prescribing Fanapt, particularly in elderly patients or those with a history of cognitive impairment.
- Strategies to manage memory issues may include adjusting the dosage, switching to a different antipsychotic medication, or implementing cognitive training programs or other supportive therapies.