Quick Facts
What Is Secuado?
Asenapine (brand name Secuado) is a second-generation antipsychotic (transdermal) (SGA) prescribed for schizophrenia, and other psychiatric conditions. Only transdermal antipsychotic patch (applied to skin daily). Avoids the sublingual requirement of oral Saphris. Steady drug levels without peaks/troughs. Application site reactions are the most common unique side effect. Rotate application sites.
At Psychiatry Telemed, asenapine is prescribed and monitored by board-certified psychiatrists who understand the nuances of SGA pharmacology — selecting the right dose, managing side effects, monitoring drug interactions, and optimizing your treatment through consistent monthly medication management appointments.
Asenapine (Secuado) — SGA medication for psychiatric care
How Secuado Affects Neurotransmitters
How Secuado Works
Transdermal asenapine delivers the drug through the skin, bypassing first-pass hepatic metabolism and the sublingual administration requirement. Same broad receptor profile (D2, 5-HT2A, alpha, H1) as oral asenapine but with steadier blood levels and improved adherence.
Efficacy: Secuado vs. Comparators
Efficacy Comparison
Response & remission rates vs. comparators (Cipriani et al. meta-analysis)
Data from published meta-analyses. Individual response may vary.
Conditions Treated with Secuado
Schizophrenia
FDA-approved transdermal patch for schizophrenia. Avoids first-pass metabolism and sublingual administration.
Learn About SchizophreniaConsidering Secuado?
Board-certified psychiatrists can determine if asenapine is right for you.
Dosage Information
| Indication | Starting Dose | Typical Range | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schizophrenia | 3.8mg/24hr patch | 3.8–7.6mg/24hr | 7.6mg/24hr |
Brain Regions Targeted by Secuado
Side Effects
Like all medications, asenapine has potential side effects. Most are mild, occur early in treatment, and resolve within 1–2 weeks. Your psychiatrist monitors at every appointment.
Common Side Effects
Less Common
Serious (Seek Immediate Help)
Side Effect Profile: Secuado vs. Class Average
Side Effect Profile
Incidence rates from FDA prescribing information vs. class average
Percentages from clinical trial data. Actual experience may differ.
⚠️ FDA Black Box Warning
Elderly dementia patients — increased mortality risk.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
CYP1A2 inhibitors (fluvoxamine), CNS depressants
CYP Metabolism
Substrate of CYP1A2 and UGT1A4.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol during asenapine treatment. Both affect the CNS, increasing sedation and impairing judgment.
Generic Versions & Cost
Generic asenapine available since Not yet generic. Approximate cost: $1,500+/month. FDA-certified bioequivalent to brand-name Secuado.
Starting Secuado: What to Expect
First Weeks
Asenapine is typically started at 3.8mg/24hr patch and increased gradually. Common initial side effects usually improve within 1–2 weeks. Full therapeutic benefit develops over 4–8 weeks.
When to Contact Your Psychiatrist
Contact your psychiatrist for: worsening depression/anxiety, thoughts of self-harm, unusual agitation, severe side effects, or any concerning changes.
Stopping Secuado Safely
Never stop asenapine abruptly. Your psychiatrist will develop a gradual tapering schedule to minimize discontinuation effects.
Timeline: When Secuado Starts Working
Timeline to Effectiveness
Expected improvement trajectory over the first 8 weeks
Based on clinical trial data. Full therapeutic effects may take 6–8 weeks.
Get Secuado from a Board-Certified Psychiatrist
At Psychiatry Telemed, asenapine is prescribed following comprehensive evaluation. All Florida via HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry. 1–3 days. $200 eval, $100 follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prescribed for schizophrenia.
Typically 2–4 weeks for initial improvement, 4–8 weeks for full benefit.
Common: application site reactions, weight gain, drowsiness, eps, oral hypoesthesia (less than sl). Most resolve within 1–2 weeks.
No. Not habit-forming but should not be stopped abruptly — gradual tapering recommended.
Only transdermal antipsychotic patch (applied to skin daily). Avoids the sublingual requirement of oral Saphris. Steady drug levels without peaks/troughs. Application site reactions are the most commo
Alcohol should be avoided — increases sedation, impairs judgment, and may worsen symptoms.
Resources
Medical Disclaimer: Educational only. Consult a psychiatrist before starting/stopping medication. Crisis: call 988 or 911.
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