WARNING

Cariprazine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Like all medications, it carries certain risks and side effects that should be considered:

• Common Side Effects: These may include nausea, dizziness, fatigue, weight gain, and restlessness. These side effects are generally manageable but can affect quality of life.
• Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): These are movement disorders such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and involuntary movements. Cariprazine has a lower risk of causing EPS compared to older antipsychotics, but it can still occur.
• Metabolic Effects: There may be an increased risk of weight gain, changes in blood sugar levels, and lipid abnormalities (such as increased cholesterol or triglycerides).
• Orthostatic Hypotension: This is a drop in blood pressure when standing up, which can cause dizziness or fainting.
• 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. Cariprazine is not approved for this use.
• Potential for QT Prolongation: Cariprazine may prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can lead to a type of irregular heartbeat. This risk is higher in patients with existing heart conditions or those taking other medications that affect the heart’s electrical activity.
• Potential for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): Though rare, NMS is a serious condition characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and other symptoms. It requires immediate medical attention.

It’s crucial for patients taking cariprazine to be monitored regularly by healthcare providers to manage these risks and ensure the medication’s effectiveness. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any concerning symptoms promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Cariprazine is prescribed primarily for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (specifically for manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder). Here’s a brief overview of its uses and how it should be used:

• Schizophrenia: Cariprazine is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and other cognitive impairments. It helps to stabilize mood, reduce hallucinations and delusions, and improve overall functioning.
• Bipolar Disorder: Cariprazine is approved to treat manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. These episodes involve symptoms such as elevated mood, increased activity or energy, racing thoughts, and reckless behavior.

How should this medicine be used?

How Cariprazine Should Be Used:

• Dosage: The dosage of cariprazine varies depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. It’s typically started at a low dose and gradually increased to achieve optimal therapeutic effect.
• Administration: Cariprazine is usually taken orally once daily, with or without food. It’s important to take it consistently at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in the bloodstream.
• Duration of Treatment: Treatment duration with cariprazine is typically long-term, as it helps manage chronic conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration based on your response to the medication and the severity of your condition.
• Monitoring: Regular medical monitoring is essential while taking cariprazine to evaluate its effectiveness and monitor for any side effects or complications. This may include periodic blood tests, weight checks, and assessments of mental health symptoms.
• Compliance: It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding dosage and timing. Abruptly stopping cariprazine can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of symptoms, so any changes in dosing should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

In summary, cariprazine is prescribed to help manage symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It should be used as directed by your doctor, with careful monitoring to optimize its benefits and minimize potential risks.

Other uses for this medicine

Cariprazine is primarily used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but there are no other FDA-approved uses for this medication as of last update. However, there may be ongoing research or off-label uses that your healthcare provider could discuss with you if relevant.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions when taking Cariprazine, here are important considerations:

• Medical History: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially:
  • Heart problems or family history of heart conditions
  • History of seizures (epilepsy)
  • Diabetes or risk factors for diabetes
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Problems swallowing
  • Low white blood cell counts (agranulocytosis)
• Medication Interactions: Cariprazine can interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. It’s important to disclose all medications you are taking to your doctor to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of cariprazine during pregnancy has not been well established. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using this medication with your healthcare provider.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Cariprazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Substance Use: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking cariprazine, as it can worsen certain side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness. Additionally, discuss any history of substance use or dependence with your doctor.
• Monitoring: Your doctor will likely monitor you closely during treatment with cariprazine, especially when starting or changing doses. This may include regular check-ups, blood tests, and monitoring for any side effects or changes in mood or behavior.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Antipsychotic medications, including cariprazine, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in younger adults. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or other changes in mood or behavior.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking cariprazine and communicate any concerns or side effects promptly. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for cariprazine. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet to manage potential side effects such as weight gain or metabolic changes. Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of weight and blood sugar levels.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of cariprazine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cariprazine, like all medications, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Here are some potential side effects associated with cariprazine:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Akathisia (restlessness or an inability to sit still)
  • Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Increased appetite
  • Weight gain
• Less Common but Serious Side Effects:
  • Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but serious reaction characterized by fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and changes in pulse, blood pressure, and breathing. This requires immediate medical attention.
  • Tardive Dyskinesia: Involuntary movements, especially of the face and tongue, which may develop with long-term use of antipsychotic medications.
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting.
  • QT Prolongation: Lengthening of the QT interval on an ECG, which can lead to abnormal heart rhythms.
  • Seizures: Especially in individuals with a history of seizures or other predisposing factors.
  • Metabolic Changes: Such as increases in blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, or triglycerides.
• Other Considerations:
  • Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic medications are at an increased risk of death.
  • Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: Antipsychotic medications, including cariprazine, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly in young adults.

It’s important to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment plan if needed. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare team are crucial to ensure the safe and effective use of cariprazine.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Cariprazine:

• Storage: Store cariprazine tablets at room temperature between 68-77°F (20-25°C). Keep the medication in its original container and away from moisture and heat.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired cariprazine tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Response: If you suspect an overdose or encounter severe side effects, call emergency services (911 in the US) immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, aggression, confusion, uncontrollable movements, seizures, and fainting. Prompt medical attention is crucial.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Monitoring: Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to cariprazine and adjust the dosage as necessary.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking cariprazine, as it can increase the risk of serious side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Cariprazine may impair your thinking or reactions. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The effects of cariprazine on a developing fetus or newborn are not well established.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications may interact with cariprazine, potentially affecting its effectiveness or causing side effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, weight gain, and restlessness. Contact your healthcare provider if these symptoms persist or worsen.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use, storage, and disposal of cariprazine. They can provide specific advice tailored to your individual health needs.