The pharmaceutical company Novartis has announced that the schizophrenia drug Fanapt (iloperidone) is now available to adult patients.

Fanapt is an oral antipsychotic that is designed to be taken twice a day. It received FDA approval in May 2009.

Short-term clinical trials showed that taking the drug resulted in a significant improvement in symptoms, compared to patients on a placebo. The most common side effects were dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, nasal congestion, drowsiness, rapid heart rate, and weight gain.

The effectiveness of taking Fanapt beyond 6 weeks has not yet been studied, so your doctor will need to monitor you closely if he or she has you continue the treatment past that point.

The FDA has approved a long-acting version of the drug olanzapine (Zyprexa) for use in schizophrenia. The new version only needs to be given every two to four weeks, compared to daily doses of the current version.

Read more about the FDA's approval of long-acting olanzapine on Medpage Today.

People with schizophrenia follow many different paths of treatment, some effective, some not as effective. What has been your experience with the health care system since your loved one or you were diagnosed? What would have effected that path? Earlier diagnosis, different insurance options? What would you like to see more readily available? Visit the schizophrenia forum and share your thoughts with others!

Cold weather reminds me me of the large number of people with schizophrenia who will be homeless this winter. As many as 25% of homeless people suffer from schizophrenia or severe manic depressive illness. What can we do? Some ideas include becoming involved in advocacy for the mentally ill, volunteering some time at a homeless shelters or soup kitchen, or supporting organizations that advocate for the mentally ill and the homeless. We can also learn about services available in our communities for the mentally ill, so we'll be ready to provide information when we encounter someone in need. Society has a long way to go in providing adequate services for the mentally ill. When we join our voices as individuals, we play an important role in turning the tide.