Asenapine
Saphris (asenapine) is a brand-name atypical antipsychotic medication administered as a sublingual tablet. It is used to treat schizophrenia in adults and to manage symptoms of bipolar I disorder, including acute manic or mixed episodes. The medication works by affecting the activity of dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain.
Saphris is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 859976
- Generic
- Saphris
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Saphris is FDA-approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and for acute treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adults. It may also be used as maintenance treatment for bipolar I disorder.
Saphris is an atypical antipsychotic that works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. This helps reduce psychotic symptoms and stabilize mood by modulating neurotransmitter activity.
Saphris is taken sublingually (under the tongue) twice daily. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain. It carries boxed warnings for increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and may cause metabolic changes, tardive dyskinesia, and orthostatic hypotension. Patients should avoid eating or drinking for 10 minutes after taking the medication.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy