Because I was now on four different medications, it was difficult at first to pinpoint which drug was causing the reactions. Along with irrational mood swings, loss of appetite, excessive mucus, and cold‑like symptoms, the most frightening reaction was the sensation of my throat closing.

Over time, it became increasingly clear that Geodon was the source of these symptoms.

I contacted my counselor right away. She insisted it couldn’t be the Geodon.

Instead, she told me to stop taking a different medication and continue with the Geodon. She even increased the dose from 20 mg to 40 mg. 

A week later, my throat closed again.

With my counselor now out of the country on vacation, I made an appointment with my primary care physician. After examining me, he confirmed I had no swollen glands, no signs of a virus, and no symptoms of a food allergy. He believed my reactions were caused by Geodon.

Wanting another perspective, I spoke with my pharmacist. He agreed—it was likely the Geodon.

Still, with my counselor away, all I could do was leave her a message and wait. When she finally responded, she continued to insist it wasn’t the Geodon. Instead of stopping the Geodon, she recommended lowering the dose back to 20 mg. At that point, I was scared, confused, and unsure whom to trust.

But I followed her guidance. And my symptoms worsened.

The excessive mucus led to frequent vomiting. My body was clearly struggling.