Warning

Abilify (generic name Aripiprazole) is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Like any medication, it carries certain risks and side effects:

• Common Side Effects: These can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, insomnia, and anxiety.
• Metabolic Changes: Abilify may lead to weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of diabetes.
• Neurological Effects: Some people may experience restlessness, tremors, or involuntary movements (tardive dyskinesia).
• Cardiovascular Risks: It may cause changes in blood pressure, including orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up).
• Psychiatric Symptoms: In some cases, Abilify can exacerbate symptoms of depression or anxiety.
• Rare but Serious Risks: These include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a potentially life-threatening reaction), seizures, and allergic reactions.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Abilify can interact with other drugs, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.

It’s crucial to take Abilify under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can monitor for these potential risks and adjust treatment as needed.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Abilify (generic name Aripiprazole) is prescribed for several psychiatric conditions, including:

• Schizophrenia: Abilify is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real), delusions (false beliefs), disorganized thinking, and emotional withdrawal.
• Bipolar Disorder: It helps manage acute manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder, including symptoms like elevated mood, irritability, and increased energy.
• Major Depressive Disorder (Adjunctive Treatment): Abilify can be prescribed alongside antidepressants to help alleviate symptoms of major depressive disorder that haven’t responded adequately to antidepressant treatment alone.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder: It may be used to treat irritability associated with autism in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years.
• Tourette’s Disorder: Abilify is sometimes used to manage symptoms of Tourette’s disorder, such as involuntary movements (tics) and vocalizations.
• Agitation Associated with Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder: It can help calm severe agitation in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Abilify works by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which play key roles in regulating mood, behavior, and perception.

How should this medicine be used?

Abilify (generic name Aripiprazole) injection is typically used in the treatment of schizophrenia to manage acute agitation. Here are the general guidelines for its use:

• Indication: Abilify injection is primarily used for acute agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
• Dosage: The dosage can vary based on individual patient factors and the severity of agitation. It’s typically administered as a single injection.
• Administration: The injection is usually given intramuscularly (into the muscle) by a healthcare professional.
• Monitoring: After administration, patients should be monitored closely for any adverse reactions or side effects.
• Frequency: The frequency of injections will depend on the clinical response and the prescribing doctor’s assessment of the patient’s condition.
• Transition to Oral Medication: Abilify injection is often used as a short-term treatment until oral medication can be established and effective. The transition to oral medication should be considered once agitation is controlled.
• Precautions: Healthcare providers should consider the patient’s medical history, current medications, and potential drug interactions before administering Abilify injection.
• Patient Education: Patients and caregivers should be educated about the medication’s purpose, potential side effects, and what to do in case of adverse reactions.

It’s important to follow the specific guidance provided by healthcare professionals regarding the use of Abilify injection, as dosing and administration details can vary based on individual patient needs and the prescribing doctor’s instructions.

Other uses for this medicine

• Agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder: It can help calm severe agitation in patients with these conditions.
• Autism spectrum disorder: Abilify may be used to treat irritability associated with autism in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years.
• Tourette’s disorder: It may help manage symptoms of Tourette’s disorder, such as involuntary movements (tics) and vocalizations.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Abilify (generic name Aripiprazole injection), there are several special precautions to be aware of. These include:

• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a known allergy to Aripiprazole or any other ingredients in Abilify. Allergic reactions can be serious and require immediate medical attention.
• Medical Conditions: Discuss with your doctor if you have or have had medical conditions such as diabetes, seizures, cardiovascular disease, or conditions affecting your kidneys or liver. These conditions may require special monitoring or adjustments in your treatment plan.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Abilify during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully considered based on potential risks and benefits.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Abilify may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Abilify affects you, especially when starting treatment or changing dosage.
• Alcohol and Other Substances: Avoid alcohol and other substances that can affect your central nervous system while taking Abilify, as they may increase the risk of side effects.
• Blood Pressure: Abilify can cause changes in blood pressure, including orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up). Report any dizziness or lightheadedness to your healthcare provider.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for side effects and response to treatment. Regular check-ups may include blood tests and assessments of your mental health status.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, as Abilify can interact with other drugs. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Abilify suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of symptoms.
• Special Populations: Extra caution may be needed for elderly patients, adolescents, and children taking Abilify. Your healthcare provider will adjust the dosage and monitor for any specific concerns related to these populations.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely and communicate any concerns or changes in your condition while taking Abilify injection. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure your safety throughout your treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Abilify injection. However, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is generally recommended for overall health and well-being. Some people may experience weight gain as a side effect of Abilify, so your doctor may advise dietary adjustments if this becomes a concern.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Abilify injection, contact your healthcare provider or clinic as soon as possible to discuss when you should receive your next dose. It’s important to maintain a consistent schedule of injections to keep a steady level of the medication in your body. Do not try to make up for a missed dose on your own without consulting your healthcare provider first.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Abilify (generic name Aripiprazole) injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. These side effects can vary in severity and occurrence from person to person. Some of the common and less common side effects of Abilify injection include:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Restlessness
• Metabolic and Hormonal Effects:
  • Weight gain
  • Increased blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
  • Increased cholesterol levels
• Neurological Effects:
  • Extrapyramidal symptoms (e.g., tremors, involuntary muscle movements)
  • Drowsiness
  • Akathisia (restlessness or an urge to move constantly)
  • Dystonia (muscle spasms)
  • Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the face and body)
• Cardiovascular Effects:
  • Changes in blood pressure, including orthostatic hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing)
• Psychiatric Effects:
  • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior (especially in children, adolescents, and young adults)
  • Agitation
  • Depression
• Other Effects:
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty swallowing
• Serious Side Effects (Rare):
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a rare but potentially life-threatening reaction characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, confusion)
  • Seizures
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)

It’s important to note that this is not a complete list of side effects, and some individuals may experience other effects not listed here. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Abilify injection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Your doctor will monitor you closely for side effects during treatment with Abilify injection and may adjust your dosage or recommend other treatments if needed. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage:
  • Store Abilify injection at room temperature between 68-77 degrees Fahrenheit (20-25 degrees Celsius).
  • Protect it from light and moisture.
  • Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused Abilify injection 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.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Contact: In case of overdose or emergency, call emergency services (911 in the US) or a poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, confusion, fainting, seizures, or severe dizziness.
• Immediate Medical Attention: Provide as much information as possible about the medication and dosage taken. Do not attempt to treat an overdose without professional medical guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may regularly monitor your condition while on Abilify injection to check for side effects and overall effectiveness.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider to determine the next steps.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, weight gain, or changes in blood sugar levels, and inform your healthcare provider if they occur.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions with Abilify.
• Allergic Reactions: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use, storage, and disposal of Abilify injection. If you have specific concerns or questions, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for further guidance.