Warning

Abilify Mycite is an antipsychotic medication used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. It contains aripiprazole and comes with a sensor that tracks if the medication has been taken. While it can be effective, it carries certain risks and potential side effects, including:

• Increased Risk of Death in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Abilify Mycite is not approved for treating dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A potentially fatal condition characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction.
• Tardive Dyskinesia: A condition involving involuntary, repetitive body movements, which may be irreversible.
• Metabolic Changes: Such as hyperglycemia, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and weight gain.
• Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Particularly in young adults, adolescents, and children.
• Impulse-Control Problems: Such as compulsive gambling, binge eating, or other uncontrollable urges.
• Other Side Effects: Include dizziness, lightheadedness, and drowsiness.

Patients should discuss their medical history and potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting Abilify Mycite. The medication’s sensor feature also raises privacy concerns, as it tracks ingestion and can share this data with healthcare providers and others.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Abilify Mycite is prescribed primarily for the treatment of schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by distorted thinking, hallucinations, and difficulty with emotions and behavior. It can also be used as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults when standard antidepressants alone have not been effective.

The unique aspect of Abilify Mycite is its digital ingestion tracking system, which consists of a sensor embedded in the medication tablet. This system helps healthcare providers monitor whether the medication is being taken as prescribed, which can be particularly useful in patients who may have difficulty adhering to their treatment regimen. This tracking capability can aid in optimizing treatment outcomes by ensuring that patients are receiving the intended therapeutic benefits of the medication.

Overall, Abilify Mycite is prescribed to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and, in some cases, major depressive disorder, while also providing a means to improve medication adherence through digital monitoring.

How should this medicine be used?

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

• Administration: Abilify Mycite tablets should be taken orally, swallowed whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
• Timing: Take Abilify Mycite exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, it is taken once daily, either in the morning or evening, with or without food.
• Digital Ingestion Tracking: The tablet contains a sensor that communicates with a wearable patch worn on the patient’s torso. This patch records the date and time the tablet was ingested. Ensure the patch is worn continuously and replaced as directed.
• Monitoring: Healthcare providers and caregivers can access information about medication ingestion through a smartphone app or web portal. This allows them to monitor adherence and adjust treatment as necessary.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are important to monitor your response to Abilify Mycite, adjust the dosage if needed, and manage any side effects.
• Compliance: It’s crucial to adhere to your prescribed dosage schedule and not skip doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Storage: Store Abilify Mycite tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until ready to use.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely regarding the use of Abilify Mycite to ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Abilify Mycite is primarily prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia, a mental disorder characterized by distorted thinking, hallucinations, and emotional and behavioral difficulties. It can also be used as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults who have not responded adequately to standard antidepressant therapies.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Abilify Mycite, there are several special precautions to keep in mind:

• Privacy and Data Security: Understand that Abilify Mycite includes a digital ingestion tracking system. This means information about your medication adherence will be transmitted to healthcare providers or caregivers. Discuss any privacy concerns you have with your healthcare team.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially:
  • History of diabetes or high blood sugar
  • History of seizures (epilepsy)
  • History of cardiovascular disease or stroke
  • History of low white blood cell count (neutropenia) or other blood disorders
  • History of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) or tardive dyskinesia
  • History of substance abuse or dependence
  • Conditions that may affect swallowing (dysphagia)
• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Abilify Mycite, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Abilify Mycite with your doctor. It is important to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the benefits of treatment.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Abilify Mycite may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Abilify Mycite, as it can worsen certain side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.
• Monitoring: Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to Abilify Mycite, adjust the dosage if necessary, and manage any side effects or complications.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and advice regarding the use of Abilify Mycite and any precautions specific to your health condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Abilify Mycite. However, maintaining a healthy diet is generally beneficial for overall health and can support your treatment plan. If you have concerns about diet or nutrition, discuss them with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Abilify Mycite, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Abilify Mycite, like other medications, can cause a range of side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Abilify Mycite include:

• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.
• Vomiting: The act of throwing up.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
• Headache: Pain or discomfort in the head.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Anxiety: Feelings of nervousness or worry.
• Restlessness: Difficulty sitting still; feeling the need to move around.
• Weight gain: Gaining weight, which can sometimes be significant.
• Constipation: Difficulty passing stools; infrequent bowel movements.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy.

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• High blood sugar: Symptoms can include increased thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss.
• Extrapyramidal symptoms: These can include muscle stiffness, tremors, or involuntary movements.
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): A rare but serious condition characterized by fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
• Tardive dyskinesia: Involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or other parts of the body that can become permanent if not treated.

If you experience any concerning side effects while taking Abilify Mycite, it’s important to notify your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess the severity of the side effects and determine the appropriate course of action, which may include adjusting your dosage or considering alternative treatments.

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

Storage and Disposal of Abilify Mycite:

• Storage: Keep Abilify Mycite tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Handling: Handle the tablets carefully and avoid crushing or breaking them, as this could interfere with the functionality of the embedded sensor.
• Keep Out of Reach: Store Abilify Mycite in a secure location out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do Not Use Expired Medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Abilify Mycite if it has expired.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, agitation, seizures, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center (in the US, call 1-800-222-1222) or emergency services for guidance on what to do in case of an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Attend scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring your response to Abilify Mycite, adjusting the dosage if necessary, and managing any side effects.
• Follow Instructions: Take Abilify Mycite exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Abilify Mycite, including dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Patient Support: If you have questions or concerns about Abilify Mycite, its use, side effects, or any other aspect of your treatment, discuss them openly with your healthcare provider.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Abilify Mycite, you can help ensure safe and effective treatment for your condition.