Warning

Aripiprazole, commonly prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, carries several potential risks:

• Metabolic Changes: It can lead to weight gain, changes in cholesterol and blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes.
• Movement Disorders: Some people may experience involuntary movements such as tremors, restlessness, or muscle stiffness.
• Neurological Effects: Aripiprazole may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or headaches, affecting daily activities.
• Psychiatric Effects: It can increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults and adolescents.
• Cardiovascular Risks: There may be an increased risk of irregular heartbeat or sudden death, particularly in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
• Other Considerations: Aripiprazole can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or causing adverse effects.

It’s crucial to discuss these risks with a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits against potential side effects and make an informed treatment decision.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Aripiprazole is prescribed primarily for the treatment of certain mental/mood disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic depression), and major depressive disorder (as an adjunct treatment when antidepressants alone have not been effective). It is an antipsychotic medication that works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

Here are some key reasons why aripiprazole might be prescribed:

• Schizophrenia: Aripiprazole helps manage symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking that are characteristic of schizophrenia.
• Bipolar Disorder: It is used to treat acute manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It can help stabilize mood and reduce the severity of manic symptoms.
• Major Depressive Disorder: In cases where antidepressants alone are not effective, aripiprazole might be prescribed as an adjunct treatment to enhance the antidepressant’s effectiveness.
• Autism-Related Irritability: Aripiprazole is also sometimes used to treat irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents.
• Tourette Syndrome: It may be prescribed to manage tics and vocal utterances associated with Tourette syndrome.

Aripiprazole is known for its unique pharmacological profile compared to other antipsychotic medications, as it acts as a partial agonist at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, and as an antagonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This mechanism of action contributes to its effectiveness in managing the symptoms of various psychiatric disorders.

How should this medicine be used?

Aripiprazole should be used according to the specific instructions provided by a healthcare provider. Here are general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: The dosage of aripiprazole varies depending on the condition being treated, the individual’s age, medical history, and other factors. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage exactly as directed.
• Administration: Aripiprazole is available in different forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and a solution (liquid). The form prescribed will depend on the patient’s needs and the healthcare provider’s recommendation.
• Timing: It’s typically taken once daily with or without food. The timing can vary, so follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
• Consistency: Take aripiprazole regularly to maintain a steady level of the medication in the body. Missing doses or stopping abruptly can affect its effectiveness.
• Monitoring: During treatment, healthcare providers may monitor for any side effects or changes in symptoms. They may also periodically adjust the dosage to achieve the best therapeutic response.
• Patient Education: Patients and caregivers should be educated about potential side effects, signs of adverse reactions, and what to do if they occur. It’s important to communicate openly with the healthcare provider about any concerns or changes in health status.
• Combination Therapy: Aripiprazole may be used alone or in combination with other medications, depending on the specific psychiatric condition being treated.

Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on how to use aripiprazole safely and effectively. Adjustments to dosage or treatment plan should only be made under medical supervision.

Other uses for this medicine

• Anxiety Disorders: It may be prescribed in some cases to help manage symptoms of anxiety disorders, although it is not FDA-approved for this indication.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Aripiprazole might be used as an augmentation strategy in treating OCD when other medications have not been effective.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): There is some research suggesting aripiprazole may help reduce symptoms in PTSD, but it is not typically a first-line treatment.
• Agitation in Dementia: In some instances, aripiprazole is used to manage agitation in patients with dementia, although caution is advised due to increased risk of stroke and mortality.

What special precautions should I follow?

Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. When taking aripiprazole, here are some special precautions you should follow:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Take aripiprazole exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change your dose or stop taking it without consulting your doctor first.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor your weight, blood sugar levels, and other health parameters regularly while you are taking aripiprazole.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol while taking aripiprazole, as it can increase the risk of certain side effects.
• Avoid Driving and Operating Machinery: Aripiprazole may impair your judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Stay Hydrated: Aripiprazole can sometimes cause decreased sweating and increased body temperature, especially in hot weather. Make sure to stay hydrated and avoid overheating.
• Notify Healthcare Providers: Inform all your healthcare providers (doctors, dentists, pharmacists) that you are taking aripiprazole before receiving any new treatment or medication.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking aripiprazole with your doctor. Aripiprazole may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby.
• Avoid Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit juice can interact with aripiprazole and lead to potentially dangerous effects. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Like many psychiatric medications, aripiprazole may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in some individuals, especially in younger patients. Monitor for any changes in mood or behavior and report them to your doctor immediately.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions, especially diabetes, heart problems, seizures, or a history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) or tardive dyskinesia.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking aripiprazole or if you experience any unexpected side effects while on this medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for aripiprazole. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is recommended to help manage potential weight gain and metabolic changes associated with the medication. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary foods and beverages to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of aripiprazole, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aripiprazole, like all medications, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Here are some common and less common side effects associated with aripiprazole:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.
  • Vomiting: Throwing up.
  • Headache: Pain in your head.
  • Dizziness: Feeling like you might fall.
  • Insomnia: Trouble sleeping.
  • Restlessness: Feeling like you can’t sit still.
  • Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
  • Constipation: Trouble pooping.
  • Weight gain: Gaining weight.
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Akathisia: A feeling of inner restlessness and an inability to sit still.
  • Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS): These can include tremors, muscle stiffness, and abnormal movements.
  • Orthostatic hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up quickly, leading to dizziness or fainting.
  • Hyperglycemia: High blood sugar levels.
  • Hyperlipidemia: High levels of fats (lipids) in the blood.
  • Sexual dysfunction: Changes in sexual desire or function.
  • Seizures: Though rare, some people may experience seizures while taking aripiprazole.
  • Suicidal thoughts: In some cases, aripiprazole and similar medications can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly in younger individuals.
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): A rare but serious reaction to antipsychotic medications, characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Tardive dyskinesia: Involuntary movements of the face and body that may be irreversible.
  • Allergic reactions: Such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment plan as necessary. If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

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

Storage and Disposal of Aripiprazole:

• Storage:
  • Store aripiprazole tablets and oral solution at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep the medication in its original packaging or container to protect it from light.
  • Store aripiprazole injection according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically in the refrigerator or at room temperature if needed for a short period.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired aripiprazole medication properly to prevent accidental ingestion by pets, children, or others.
  • Follow local guidelines for medication disposal. Many pharmacies and community organizations offer drug take-back programs.
  • If no take-back programs are available, mix the medication with an undesirable substance (e.g., coffee grounds, cat litter) in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it in the trash. This helps prevent accidental ingestion.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Contact: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical assistance immediately by calling your local emergency services (e.g., 911 in the United States).
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of aripiprazole overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, aggression, confusion, seizures, or fainting.
• Treatment: Emergency medical treatment for overdose typically involves supportive care to manage symptoms and stabilize vital signs. It may include activated charcoal administration (to absorb the medication in the stomach) or other interventions based on the severity of symptoms.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to aripiprazole and assess for any potential side effects or complications.
• Medication Adherence: Take aripiprazole exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking it without consulting them first, even if you feel better.
• Alertness: Aripiprazole may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring mental alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Psychiatric Monitoring: Inform your healthcare provider about any changes in mood, behavior, or symptoms, especially if you experience worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.
• Interactions: Discuss with your healthcare provider all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions with aripiprazole.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using aripiprazole with your healthcare provider.

By understanding these aspects of aripiprazole use, storage, emergency procedures, and other relevant information, you can use the medication safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.