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SAPHRIS
Asenapine Maleate · Tablet
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Atypical Antipsychotic [EPC] | EPC | All 62 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 022117-001 | SAPHRIS | TABLET | ASENAPINE MALEATE | Prescription | AB | RLD | |
| 022117-002 | SAPHRIS | TABLET | ASENAPINE MALEATE | Prescription | AB | RLD RS | |
| 022117-003 | SAPHRIS | TABLET | ASENAPINE MALEATE | Prescription | AB | RLD |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Patents and exclusivity
Source: Orange Book| Patent | Expires | Product | Substance | Use code | Submitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 001 | Yes | U-1960 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 001 | Yes | U-1064 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 001 | Yes | U-1961 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 001 | Yes | U-1962 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 001 | Yes | U-1963 | February 10, 2017 |
| 8022228 | April 6, 2026 | 001 | Yes | July 29, 2014 | |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 002 | Yes | U-1963 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 002 | Yes | U-1064 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 002 | Yes | U-1961 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 002 | Yes | U-1960 | February 10, 2017 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 002 | Yes | U-1962 | February 10, 2017 |
| 8022228 | April 6, 2026 | 002 | Yes | July 29, 2014 | |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 003 | Yes | U-1966 | September 12, 2016 |
| 7741358 | April 6, 2026 | 003 | Yes | U-1893 | September 12, 2016 |
| 8022228 | April 6, 2026 | 003 | Yes | September 12, 2016 | |
| 7741358*PED | October 6, 2026 | 001 | No | — | |
| 8022228*PED | October 6, 2026 | 001 | No | — | |
| 7741358*PED | October 6, 2026 | 002 | No | — | |
| 8022228*PED | October 6, 2026 | 002 | No | — | |
| 7741358*PED | October 6, 2026 | 003 | No | — | |
| 8022228*PED | October 6, 2026 | 003 | No | — |
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 24 | Labeling | Approved | January 22, 2025 | Standard |
| Supplement | 22 | Labeling | Approved | February 23, 2017 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 21 | Efficacy | Approved | January 13, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 20 | Efficacy | Approved | January 13, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 19 | Efficacy | Approved | March 12, 2015 | Priority |
| Supplement | 18 | Efficacy | Approved | March 12, 2015 | Priority |
| Supplement | 17 | Labeling | Approved | March 12, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 16 | Labeling | Approved | November 18, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | November 18, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 14 | Labeling | Approved | November 18, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | October 21, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 12 | Labeling | Approved | March 21, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | November 8, 2012 | Standard |
| Supplement | 9 | Labeling | Approved | October 11, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 10 | Labeling | Approved | August 9, 2011 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 7 | Labeling | Approved | December 1, 2010 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 4 | Efficacy | Approved | September 3, 2010 | Standard |
| Supplement | 3 | Efficacy | Approved | September 3, 2010 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 1 - New Molecular Entity | Approved | August 13, 2009 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · February 6, 2025
- 0 · Supplement · February 5, 2025
- 0 · Supplement · March 2, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · February 24, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · January 24, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · January 24, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · January 13, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · January 13, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · March 17, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · March 17, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · March 17, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · March 13, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · March 13, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · March 13, 2015
- 0 · Supplement · November 20, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · November 20, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · November 20, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · November 19, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · November 19, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · November 19, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · October 24, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · February 6, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · February 6, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · August 30, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · August 30, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · March 26, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · March 22, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · November 9, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · November 8, 2012
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250131). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. SAPHRIS ® (asenapine) is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1, 5.2 )] . WARNING: INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. SAPHRIS is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis. ( 5.1 , 5.2 )
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingWarnings and Precautions ( 5.11 ) 01/2025
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AN D USAGE SAPHRIS is indicated for: Schizophrenia in adults [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] Bipolar I disorder [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] • Acute monotherapy of manic or mixed episodes, in adults and pediatric patients 10 to 17 years of age • Adjunctive treatment to lithium or valproate in adults • Maintenance monotherapy treatment in adults SAPHRIS is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for ( 1 ): Schizophrenia in adults Bipolar I disorder ○ Acute monotherapy treatment of manic or mixed episodes, in adults and pediatric patients 10 to 17 years of age ○ Adjunctive treatment to lithium or valproate in adults ○ Maintenance monotherapy treatment in adults
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 D OSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Starting Dose Recommended Dose Maximum Dose Schizophrenia – acute treatment in adults ( 2.2 ) 5 mg sublingually twice daily 5 mg sublingually twice daily 10 mg sublingually twice daily Schizophrenia – maintenance treatment in adults ( 2.2 ) 5 mg sublingually twice daily 5-10 mg sublingually twice daily 10 mg sublingually twice daily Bipolar mania – adults: acute and maintenance monotherapy ( 2.3 ) 5-10 mg sublingually twice daily 5-10 mg sublingually twice daily 10 mg sublingually twice daily Bipolar mania –pediatric patients (10 to 17 years): monotherapy ( 2.3 ) 2.5 mg sublingually twice daily 2.5-10 mg sublingually twice daily 10 mg sublingually twice daily Bipolar mania – adults: as an adjunct to lithium or valproate ( 2.3 ) 5 mg sublingually twice daily 5-10 mg sublingually twice daily 10 mg sublingually twice daily Do not swallow tablet. SAPHRIS sublingual tablets should be placed under the tongue and left to dissolve completely. The tablet will dissolve in saliva within seconds. Eating and drinking should be avoided for 10 minutes after administration. ( 2.1 , 17 ) 2.1 Administration Instructions SAPHRIS is a sublingual tablet. To ensure optimal absorption, patients should be instructed to place the tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. The tablet will dissolve in saliva within seconds. SAPHRIS sublingual tablets should not be split, crushed, chewed, or swallowed [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ] . Patients should be instructed to not eat or drink for 10 minutes after administration [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 ) ] . 2.2 Schizophrenia The recommended dose of SAPHRIS is 5 mg given twice daily. In short-term controlled trials, there was no suggestion of added benefit with a 10 mg twice daily dose, but there was a clear increase in certain adverse reactions. If tolerated, daily dosage can be increased to 10 mg twice daily after one week. The safety of doses above 10 mg twice daily has not been evaluated in clinical studies [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )] . 2.3 Bipolar I Disorder Acute Treatment of Manic or Mixed Episodes : Monotherapy in Adults : The recommended starting and treatment dose of SAPHRIS is 5 mg to 10 mg twice daily. The safety of doses above 10 mg twice daily has not been evaluated in clinical trials [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . Monotherapy in Pediatric P atients: The recommended dose of SAPHRIS is 2.5 mg to 10 mg twice daily in pediatric patients 10 to 17 years of age, and dose may be adjusted for individual response and tolerability. The starting dose of SAPHRIS is 2.5 mg twice daily. After 3 days, the dose can be increased to 5 mg twice daily, and from 5 mg to 10 mg twice daily after 3 additional days. Pediatric patients aged 10 to 17 years appear to be more sensitive to dystonia with initial dosing with SAPHRIS when the recommended escalation schedule is not followed [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . The safety of doses greater than 10 mg twice daily has not been evaluated in clinical trials [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Adjunctive Therapy in Adults : The recommended starting dose of SAPHRIS is 5 mg twice daily when administered as adjunctive therapy with either lithium or valproate. Depending on the clinical response and tolerability in the individual patient, the dose can be increased to 10 mg twice daily. The safety of doses above 10 mg twice daily as adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate has not been evaluated in clinical trials. For patients on SAPHRIS, whether used as monotherapy or as adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate, it is generally recommended that responding patients continue treatment beyond the acute episode. Maintenance Trea tment of Bipolar I Disorder: Monotherapy in Adults: Continue on the SAPHRIS dose that the patient received during stabilization (5 mg to 10 mg twice daily). Depending on the clinical response and tolerability in the individual pati …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORM S AND STRENGTHS SAPHRIS 2.5 mg tablets, black cherry flavor, are round, white to off-white sublingual tablets, with a hexagon on one side. SAPHRIS 5 mg tablets, black cherry flavor, are round, white to off-white sublingual tablets, with “5” on one side within a circle. SAPHRIS 10 mg tablets, black cherry flavor, are round, white to off-white sublingual tablets, with “10” on one side within a circle. Sublingual tablets, black cherry flavor: 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS SAPHRIS is contraindicated in patients with: Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) [see Specific Populations ( 8.7 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . A history of hypersensitivity reactions to asenapine. Reactions have included anaphylaxis, angioedema, hypotension, tachycardia, swollen tongue, dyspnea, wheezing and rash [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ), Adverse Reactions ( 6 )] . Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C). ( 8.7 , 12.3 ) Known hypersensitivity to SAPHRIS (asenapine), or to any components in the formulation. ( 4 , 5.6 , 17 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis : Increased incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack). ( 5.2 ) Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Manage with immediate discontinuation and close monitoring. ( 5.3 ) Tardive Dyskinesia : Discontinue if clinically appropriate. ( 5.4 ) Metabolic Changes : Monitor for hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and weight gain. ( 5.5 ) Orthostatic Hypotension: Monitor heart rate and blood pressure and warn patients with known cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, and risk of dehydration or syncope. ( 5.7 ) Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis : Perform complete blood counts (CBC) in patients with pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC) or history of leukopenia or neutropenia. Consider discontinuing SAPHRIS if a clinically significant decline in WBC occurs in absence of other causative factors. ( 5.9 ) QT Prolongation: Increases in QT interval; avoid use with drugs that also increase the QT interval and in patients with risk factors for prolonged QT interval. ( 5.10 ) Seizures: Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold. ( 5.12 ) Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Use caution when operating machinery. ( 5.13 ) 5.1 Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks), largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, revealed a risk of death in drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times the risk of death in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group. Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. SAPHRIS is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [ see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ] . 5.2 Cerebrovascular Adverse Events, Including Stroke, In Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis In placebo-controlled trials in elderly subjects with dementia, patients randomized to risperidone, aripiprazole, and olanzapine had a higher incidence of stroke and transient ischemic attack, including fatal stroke. SAPHRIS is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . 5.3 Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome A potentially fatal symptom complex sometimes referred to as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, delirium, and autonomic instability. Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure. If NMS is suspected, immediately discontinue SAPHRIS and provide intensive symptomatic treatment and monitoring. 5.4 Tardive Dyskinesia Tardive dyskinesia, a syndrome consisting of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements, may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs, including SAPHRIS. The risk appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, but it is not possible to predict which patients are likely to develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drug products differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown. The risk of tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible increase with the duration of treatment and the cumulative dose. The syndrome can develop after a relatively brief treatm …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Use in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 and 5.2 )] Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Tardive Dyskinesia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Metabolic Changes [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Contraindications, Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Orthostatic Hypotension, Syncope, and other Hemodynamic Effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Falls [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] QT Interval Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] Hyperprolactinemia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 )] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13 )] Body Temperature Regulation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14 )] Dysphagia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.15 )] The most common adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) reported with acute treatment in adults with schizophrenia were akathisia, oral hypoesthesia, and somnolence. The safety profile of SAPHRIS in the maintenance treatment of schizophrenia in adults was similar to that seen with acute treatment. The most common adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) reported with acute monotherapy treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adults were somnolence, oral hypoesthesia dizziness, extrapyramidal symptoms (excluding akathisia) and akathisia; and during the adjunctive therapy trial in bipolar I disorder in adults were somnolence and oral hypoesthesia. The rates were lower at the 5mg twice daily dose than the 10mg twice daily dose for all of these most common adverse reactions. The safety profile of SAPHRIS in the maintenance treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder in adults was similar to that seen with acute treatment. The adult information below is derived from a clinical trial database for SAPHRIS consisting of over 5355 patients and/or healthy subjects exposed to one or more sublingual doses of SAPHRIS. A total of 1427 SAPHRIS-treated patients were treated for at least 24 weeks and 785 SAPHRIS-treated patients had at least 52 weeks of exposure at therapeutic doses. In a 3-week monotherapy trial, the most common adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) reported in pediatric patients with bipolar I disorder treated with SAPHRIS were somnolence, dizziness, dysgeusia, oral hypoesthesia, nausea, increased appetite, fatigue, and increased weight. No new major safety findings were reported from a 50-week, open-label, uncontrolled safety trial. A total of 651 pediatric patients were treated with SAPHRIS. Of these patients, 352 pediatric patients were treated with SAPHRIS for at least 180 days and 58 pediatric patients treated with SAPHRIS had at least 1 year of exposure. The safety of SAPHRIS was evaluated in 403 pediatric patients with bipolar I disorder who participated in a 3-week, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial, of whom 302 patients received SAPHRIS at fixed doses ranging from 2.5 mg to 10 mg twice daily. The stated frequencies of adverse reactions represent the proportion of individuals who experienced a treatment-emergent adverse event of the type listed. A reaction was considered treatment emergent if it occurred for the first time or worsened while receiving therapy following baseline evaluation. The most commonly observed adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and at least twice that for placebo) were ( 6.1 ): Schizophrenia Adults : akathisia, oral hypoesthesia, somnolence. Bipolar I Disorder Adults (Monotherapy): somnolence, oral hypoesthesia, dizziness, extrapyramidal symptoms (excluding akathisia) a …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Antihypertensive Drugs: SAPHRIS may cause hypotension. ( 5.7 , 7.1 , 12.3 ) Paroxetine (CYP2D6 substrate and inhibitor): Reduce paroxetine by half when used in combination with SAPHRIS. ( 7.1 , 12.3 ) 7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Drug Interactions with SAPHRIS Table 12: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with SAPHRIS Concomitant Drug Name or Drug Class Clinical Rationale Clinical Recommendation Antihypertensive Drugs Because of its α 1 -adrenergic antagonism with potential for inducing hypotension, SAPHRIS may enhance the effects of certain antihypertensive agents [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] . Monitor blood pressure and adjust dosage of antihypertensive drug accordingly. Strong CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., Fluvoxamine) SAPHRIS is metabolized by CYP1A2. Marginal increase of asenapine exposure was observed when SAPHRIS is used with fluvoxamine at 25 mg administered twice daily [ see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . However, the tested fluvoxamine dose was suboptimal. Full therapeutic dose of fluvoxamine is expected to cause a greater increase in asenapine exposure. Dosage reduction for SAPHRIS based on clinical response may be necessary. CYP2D6 substrates and inhibitors (e.g., paroxetine) SAPHRIS may enhance the inhibitory effects of paroxetine on its own metabolism. Concomitant use of paroxetine with SAPHRIS increased the paroxetine exposure by 2-fold as compared to use paroxetine alone [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Reduce paroxetine dose by half when paroxetine is used in combination with SAPHRIS. 7.2 Drugs Having No Clinically Important Interactions with SAPHRIS No dosage adjustment of SAPHRIS is necessary when administered concomitantly with paroxetine (see Table 12 in Drug Interactions ( 7.1 ) for paroxetine dosage adjustment), imipramine, cimetidine, valproate, lithium, or a CYP3A4 inducer (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin). In addition, valproic acid and lithium pre-dose serum concentrations collected from an adjunctive therapy study were comparable between asenapine-treated patients and placebo-treated patients indicating a lack of effect of asenapine on valproic and lithium plasma levels.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: May cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in neonates with third trimester exposure. ( 8.1 ) Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy in the treatment of bipolar I disorder in patients less than 10 years of age, and patients with schizophrenia ages less than 12 years have not been evaluated. ( 8.4 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to SAPHRIS during pregnancy. For more information contact the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry / . Risk Summary Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms. Studies have not been conducted with SAPHRIS in pregnant women. There are no available human data informing the drug-associated risk. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown. However, the background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2-4% and of miscarriage is 15-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies. No teratogenicity was observed in animal reproduction studies with intravenous administration of asenapine to rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses 0.7 and 0.4 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 10 mg sublingually twice daily. In a pre-and post-natal study in rats, intravenous administration of asenapine at doses up to 0.7 times the MRHD produced increases in post-implantation loss and early pup deaths, and decreases in subsequent pup survival and weight gain [see Data]. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates who were exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Monitor neonates for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately. Data Animal Data In animal studies, asenapine increased post-implantation loss and decreased pup weight and survival at doses similar to or less than recommended clinical doses. In these studies there was no increase in the incidence of structural abnormalities caused by asenapine. Asenapine was not teratogenic in reproduction studies in rats and rabbits at intravenous doses up to 1.5 mg/kg in rats and 0.44 mg/kg in rabbits administered during organogenesis. These doses are 0.7 and 0.4 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 10 mg twice daily given sublingually on a mg/m 2 basis. Plasma levels of asenapine were measured in the rabbit study, and the area under the curve (AUC) at the highest dose tested was 2 times that in humans receiving the MRHD. In a study in which rats were treated from day 6 of gestation through day 21 postpartum with intravenous doses of asenapine of 0.3, 0.9, and 1.5 mg/kg/day (0.15, 0.4, and 0.7 times the MRHD of 10 mg twice daily given sublingually on a mg/m 2 basis), increases in post-implantation loss and early pup deaths were seen at all doses, and decreases in subsequent pup survival and weight gain were seen at the two higher doses. A cross-fostering study indicated that the decreases in pup survival were largely due to prenatal drug effects. Increases in post-implantation loss and decreases in pup weight and survival were also seen when pregnant rats were dosed orally with asenapine. 8. 2 Lactation Risk Summary Lactation studies have not been conducted to assess the presence of asenapine in human milk, the effects of asena …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action of asenapine, in schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, is unknown. It has been suggested that the efficacy of asenapine in schizophrenia could be mediated through a combination of antagonist activity at D 2 and 5-HT 2A receptors.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION SAPHRIS contains asenapine maleate which is an atypical antipsychotic that is available for sublingual administration. Asenapine belongs to the class dibenzo-oxepino pyrroles. The chemical designation is (3a RS ,12b RS )-5-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,3a,12b-tetrahydro-1 H dibenzo[2,3:6,7]oxepino[4,5- c ]pyrrole (2 Z )-2-butenedioate (1:1). Its molecular formula is C 17 H 16 ClNO•C 4 H 4 O 4 and its molecular weight is 401.84 (free base: 285.8). The chemical structure is: Asenapine maleate is a white to off-white powder. SAPHRIS, black cherry flavor, is supplied for sublingual administration in tablets containing 2.5 mg, 5 mg or 10 mg asenapine; inactive ingredients include gelatin, mannitol, sucralose, and black cherry flavor. SAPHRIS contains asenapine maleate which is an atypical antipsychotic that is available for sublingual administration. Asenapine belongs to the class dibenzo-oxepino pyrroles. The chemical designation is (3aRS,12bRS)-5-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,3a,12b-tetrahydro-1Hdibenzo[2,3:6,7]oxepino[4,5-c]pyrrole (2Z)-2-butenedioate (1:1). Its molecular formula is C17H16ClNOC4H4O4 and its molecular weight is 401.84 (free base: 285.8). The chemical structure is:
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OV ERDOSAGE Human Experience: In adult pre-marketing clinical studies involving more than 3350 patients and/or healthy subjects, accidental or intentional acute overdosage of SAPHRIS was identified in 3 patients. Among these few reported cases of overdose, the highest estimated ingestion of SAPHRIS was 400 mg. Reported adverse reactions at the highest dosage included agitation and confusion. Management of Overdosage: There is no specific antidote to SAPHRIS. The possibility of multiple drug involvement should be considered. An electrocardiogram should be obtained and management of overdose should concentrate on supportive therapy, maintaining an adequate airway, oxygenation and ventilation, and management of symptoms. Consult with a Certified Poison Control Center for up-to-date guidance and advice on the management of overdosage (1-800-222-1222.) Hypotension and circulatory collapse should be treated with appropriate measures, such as intravenous fluids and/or sympathomimetic agents (epinephrine and dopamine should not be used, since beta stimulation may worsen hypotension in the setting of SAPHRIS-induced alpha blockade). In case of severe extrapyramidal symptoms, anticholinergic medication should be administered. Close medical supervision and monitoring should continue until the patient recovers.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING SAPHRIS (asenapine) sublingual tablets are supplied as: 2.5 mg Tablets, black cherry flavor Round, white to off-white sublingual tablets, with a hexagon on one side. Child-resistant packaging Box of 60 6 blisters with 10 tablets NDC 0456-2402-60 Hospital Unit Dose Box of 100 10 blisters with 10 tablets NDC 0456-2402-63 5 mg Tablets, black cherry flavor Round, white to off-white sublingual tablets, with “5” on one side within a circle. Child-resistant packaging Box of 60 6 blisters with 10 tablets NDC 0456-2405-60 Hospital Unit Dose Box of 100 10 blisters with 10 tablets NDC 0456-2405-63 10 mg Tablets, black cherry flavor Round, white to off-white sublingual tablets, with “10” on one side within a circle. Child-resistant packaging Box of 60 6 blisters with 10 tablets NDC 0456-2410-60 Hospital Unit Dose Box of 100 10 blisters with 10 tablets NDC 0456-2410-63 Storage Store at 20 o C to 25 o C (68 o F to 77 o F) ; excursions permitted between 15 o C and 30 o C (59 o F and 86 o F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: ASENAPINE MALEATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | June 7, 2017 | Forest Laboratories, LLC | Labeling; Label Mixup; blister lidding foil and shell-pack labeled as 10 mg but package actually contains 5 mg tablets | Terminated |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0456-2402-10 | 0456-2402 | Allergan, Inc. | 1 CASE in 1 CARTON (0456-2402-10) / 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CASE / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK | December 30, 2014 |
| 0456-2402-60 | 0456-2402 | Allergan, Inc. | 6 CASE in 1 CARTON (0456-2402-60) / 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CASE (0456-2402-06) / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK | December 30, 2014 |
| 0456-2402-63 | 0456-2402 | Allergan, Inc. | 10 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON (0456-2402-63) / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK (0456-2402-11) | December 30, 2014 |
| 0456-2405-10 | 0456-2405 | Allergan, Inc. | 1 CASE in 1 CARTON (0456-2405-10) / 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CASE / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK | September 30, 2013 |
| 0456-2405-60 | 0456-2405 | Allergan, Inc. | 6 CASE in 1 CARTON (0456-2405-60) / 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CASE (0456-2405-06) / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK | September 30, 2013 |
| 0456-2410-10 | 0456-2410 | Allergan, Inc. | 1 CASE in 1 CARTON (0456-2410-10) / 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CASE / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK | September 30, 2013 |
| 0456-2410-60 | 0456-2410 | Allergan, Inc. | 6 CASE in 1 CARTON (0456-2410-60) / 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CASE (0456-2410-06) / 10 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK | September 30, 2013 |
| 0456-2402 | 0456-2402 | Allergan, Inc. | — | December 30, 2014 |
| 0456-2405 | 0456-2405 | Allergan, Inc. | — | September 30, 2013 |
| 0456-2410 | 0456-2410 | Allergan, Inc. | — | September 30, 2013 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.