thoughtscape NP Psychiatry · Patient education
Sertindole
Serdolect · Non-US medicine
A treatment for schizophrenia that needs a clear plan for heart checks.
Draft for review · Clinical content has not been revalidated for this website.
Not FDA-approved. This general guide follows non-US product information; use your local prescriber's instructions.
What it is used for
Used for schizophrenia when another antipsychotic was not tolerated, after weighing its heart-rhythm risks.
It is not a medicine for immediate calming in an emergency. Ask what improvements your team is looking for.
How it works
It changes dopamine and serotonin signaling involved in thinking and perception.
The diagram is a simplified guide, not a prediction of benefit. It does not show every possible side effect.
What to expect over time
STARTING SLOWLY
Your dose is raised gradually. Dizziness can occur early.
OVER THE NEXT WEEKS
Benefits build over time. Do not speed up the dose increases yourself.
CONTINUING SAFELY
Keep heart checks and follow-up even when you feel well.
Taking your medication
Take the prescribed dose once daily, at the same time, with or without food. Swallow tablets whole with water.
Your prescriber starts low and raises the dose gradually. Never add extra tablets to get a faster effect.
Missed dose? Do not double. Contact your team for instructions. After a week or more off, do not restart the old dose; you may need a new ECG and slow restart.
When to get help
Emergency: fainting, a racing/irregular heartbeat with dizziness, chest pain, breathing trouble, seizure, or stroke signs.
Emergency: high fever with severe stiffness/confusion, or a painful swollen leg with sudden chest pain or breathlessness.
Call promptly: new uncontrolled movements, persistent vomiting/diarrhea, extreme thirst, or frequent urination. Get emergency help if you cannot stay safe.
Early side effects
Stuffy nose, dry mouth, dizziness, tingling, or swollen feet may occur. Stand slowly. Report persistent swelling or troublesome dizziness. New breathlessness needs prompt assessment. Avoid driving until you know how you are affected.
Other effects to discuss
Weight and blood sugar can rise. Sexual changes, including difficulty with erections or ejaculation, can occur. Report breast discharge, changes in periods, and involuntary movements too. You do not have to quietly put up with these.
What to keep track of
Expect an ECG before treatment, around three weeks, or at 16 mg/day, then every three months and around relevant dose changes. Blood tests, weight, blood-pressure, and movement checks matter too. Feeling fine does not replace testing.
Before you start
Mention heart disease, fainting, a slow pulse, family long-QT history, liver problems, seizures, Parkinson disease, diabetes, clot history, pregnancy or nursing. Low potassium/magnesium must be corrected first. Tell your team about rare inherited sugar-intolerance disorders; these tablets contain lactose. It is not recommended for children or for dementia-related behavior problems.
Medicines & interactions
Heart-rhythm and some psychiatric medicines
Some combinations are prohibited, including certain rhythm drugs, antipsychotics, and lithium. Have the complete list checked.
Antibiotics, antifungals, and other treatments
Certain antibiotics, antifungals, HIV medicines, verapamil, diltiazem, and cimetidine must not be combined. Check first.
Antidepressants and seizure medicines
Fluoxetine/paroxetine can raise levels; some seizure medicines and rifampin lower them. Changes may need dose adjustment and ECGs.
Water tablets, alcohol, and other remedies
Diuretics can lower potassium. Avoid alcohol; ask before sleep, allergy, or cold remedies. Share supplements and nonprescription products too.
Everyday tips
Book the next ECG before leaving the clinic. Tell your team early if getting to appointments is difficult.
Report vomiting or diarrhea promptly: they can disturb the blood salts that help keep your heartbeat steady.
Ask for support with eating, activity, and weight. Avoid overheating and dehydration within your medical fluid limits.
Discuss stopping or switching in advance. Sudden stopping can cause nausea, sweating, poor sleep, and return of symptoms.
Your questions, answered
Why so many heart checks?
This medicine can change the heart's electrical timing without obvious symptoms. Regular ECGs help your team decide whether treatment remains safe.
What about sexual side effects?
Tell your prescriber, even if the conversation feels awkward. There may be treatment options; do not add a remedy without checking interactions.
What if I become pregnant?
Contact your team promptly for a safer treatment plan. This medicine is not recommended in pregnancy; do not suddenly stop without their help.
Can I breastfeed?
Milk exposure is expected but not well studied. If this treatment is essential, you may need to stop breastfeeding. Discuss medicine and feeding options together.
Storage & safety
Keep tablets in the original pack to protect from light, away from children and pets. Never share. After an extra dose, contact your local poison service or emergency department immediately, even if you feel well.
About this information
For general information only; not a substitute for individualized medical advice. This sheet does not cover every risk or interaction. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist before changing how you take this medication.
Sources
Educational inclusion does not mean this medication or its indications are treated at this practice. Review the guide for your exact product with your prescriber or pharmacist.