Which antipsychotic must be taken with meals for optimal absorption?

Ziprasidone (Geodon) is the antipsychotic that must be taken with meals for optimal absorption. This requirement is crucial because the presence of food significantly enhances the bioavailability of ziprasidone. When taken on an empty stomach, the absorption of the medication can be substantially reduced, sometimes leading to lower plasma concentrations and potentially less therapeutic efficacy.

The importance of taking ziprasidone with food is particularly emphasized in clinical practice to ensure that patients receive the full benefits of the medication. A meal can increase its absorption by up to 100%, which is a significant consideration when prescribing and managing treatment with this specific medication.

Other antipsychotics mentioned do not have such specific dietary restrictions for absorption. For example, aripiprazole can be taken with or without food, and clozapine and haloperidol do not require meals for optimal absorption. Thus, knowing the specific requirements of ziprasidone is essential for both patient education and medication adherence.