Warning

Aripiprazole injection (brand name Abilify Maintena or Aristada) carries several potential risks and side effects, including:

• Metabolic Changes: It can lead to weight gain, increased cholesterol levels, and elevated blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes.
• Neurological Effects: Some individuals may experience drowsiness, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating. In rare cases, it can cause movement disorders like tardive dyskinesia.
• Cardiovascular Risks: Aripiprazole may increase the risk of heart-related issues, including irregular heartbeat or changes in blood pressure.
• Mental Health: It may worsen depression or lead to suicidal thoughts in some people, especially when starting treatment or adjusting dosage.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions can occur, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing.
• Other Potential Effects: These include nausea, constipation, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction.

Before starting aripiprazole injection, it’s crucial to discuss all potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider. Monitoring for side effects during treatment is essential, and any concerning symptoms should be promptly reported to a doctor.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Aripiprazole injection, is prescribed primarily for the treatment of several mental health conditions, including:

• Schizophrenia: Aripiprazole injection is used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia, a chronic mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning.
• Bipolar Disorder: It is also prescribed for the acute and maintenance treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. These episodes involve symptoms such as elevated mood, increased energy, racing thoughts, and risky behavior.
• Major Depressive Disorder (as adjunctive treatment): In some cases, aripiprazole injection may be used as an adjunctive (additional) treatment alongside antidepressants to help manage symptoms of major depressive disorder, particularly when other treatments have not been effective alone.

Aripiprazole works by affecting the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in regulating mood, behavior, and cognition. It helps to reduce or control the symptoms associated with these mental health conditions, enabling individuals to function more effectively in their daily lives.

How should this medicine be used?

Abilify Asimtufii, or generic aripiprazole injection, should be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider, typically following these guidelines:

• Administration: It is administered as an intramuscular injection by a healthcare professional in a healthcare setting, such as a doctor’s office or clinic.
• Dosage: The dosage and frequency of injections will be determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual’s condition, response to treatment, and other factors. It is usually given monthly or less frequently depending on the formulation (e.g., Abilify Maintena is typically given once a month).
• Starting Treatment: Initially, aripiprazole injection may require a period of oral supplementation to establish tolerance before transitioning to the injection form.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by healthcare providers is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and to monitor for any potential side effects or adverse reactions.
• Patient Education: Patients should be educated about the importance of adhering to the prescribed treatment schedule and reporting any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly to their healthcare provider.
• Storage: Proper storage conditions for aripiprazole injection should be followed as per the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain stability and effectiveness.

It’s crucial for individuals receiving aripiprazole injection to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions closely and attend scheduled appointments to optimize treatment outcomes and minimize risks.

Other uses for this medicine

• Autism Spectrum Disorders: Aripiprazole has been used to manage symptoms associated with irritability and aggression in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): It may be used in combination with other medications for treating symptoms of OCD.
• Tourette Syndrome: Aripiprazole can sometimes be prescribed to help manage tics and other symptoms associated with Tourette syndrome.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Abilify Asimtufii (generic aripiprazole injection), it’s important to follow these special precautions:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, seizures, or any history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits of aripiprazole injection if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. A healthcare provider will consider these factors when prescribing this medication.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Aripiprazole may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Other Drugs: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking aripiprazole as it can increase the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you are taking.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of weight, blood sugar levels, and other metabolic parameters may be necessary during treatment with aripiprazole injection.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have experienced allergic reactions to aripiprazole or any of its components, inform your healthcare provider.
• Children and Adolescents: Use in pediatric patients should be carefully monitored and prescribed based on specific guidelines and recommendations for each condition.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual or concerning symptoms promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with aripiprazole injection. However, maintaining a healthy diet and monitoring weight changes is advisable, as some individuals may experience weight gain as a side effect of the medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of aripiprazole injection, contact your healthcare provider or clinic as soon as possible to reschedule your injection appointment. Do not attempt to administer the missed dose yourself. It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the medication in managing your condition.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Abilify Asimtufii (generic aripiprazole injection) can cause various side effects, which can vary in severity and frequency among individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms: These include tremors, muscle stiffness, restlessness, and involuntary movements, which can occur especially at higher doses.
• Metabolic Effects: Aripiprazole can lead to weight gain, increased cholesterol levels, and elevated blood sugar levels, which may increase the risk of developing diabetes.
• Cardiovascular Effects: It may cause changes in blood pressure, including orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing), and irregular heartbeat.
• Neurological Effects: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and difficulty sleeping (insomnia) are common. In some cases, it can cause agitation, anxiety, or difficulty concentrating.
• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Nausea, constipation, and increased salivation are reported side effects.
• Endocrine Effects: Aripiprazole can sometimes disrupt hormonal balance, leading to menstrual irregularities in women or breast enlargement in both genders.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing can occur.
• Other Effects: Sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, and blurred vision have also been reported.
• Serious Adverse Reactions: In rare cases, aripiprazole may increase the risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and rapid heartbeat. It may also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in younger individuals.

It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting aripiprazole injection. Monitoring for side effects during treatment is crucial, and any concerning symptoms should be promptly reported to a healthcare professional.

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

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store at room temperature: Keep Abilify tablets and oral solution at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children: Store in a secure place to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not store in the bathroom: Avoid storing medication in humid or damp areas.

Disposal:

• Follow local guidelines: Dispose of unused or expired Abilify according to local regulations or through a drug take-back program.
• Do not flush: Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek immediate medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as severe drowsiness, fainting, uncontrollable movements, or seizures, call emergency services (such as 911 in the US) or a poison control center immediately.
• Do not induce vomiting: If unconscious or having seizures, do not attempt to induce vomiting. Emergency medical help is essential.

What other information should I know?

• Regular follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and any potential side effects.
• Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can increase certain side effects of Abilify such as drowsiness.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure all healthcare providers are aware of all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider the risks and benefits of using Abilify if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Medical conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially liver or kidney problems, diabetes, seizures, or a history of low white blood cell counts.
• Blood tests: Your doctor may recommend periodic blood tests to monitor for potential side effects, such as changes in blood sugar levels or cholesterol levels.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about your medication, you can use Abilify safely and effectively as part of your treatment plan. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your medication or its usage.