Common Use

Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat mental and mood disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder (as an add-on treatment). It helps restore the balance of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Aripiprazole can also be used to treat irritability associated with autism in children.

Dosage and Direction

• Aripiprazole is usually taken once daily, with or without food.
• Available in tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, solution, or injection form.
• The dosage depends on the condition, response to treatment, and age.
• Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may return or worsen.

Precautions

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, seizures, diabetes, or liver problems.
• May increase blood sugar, cholesterol, or weight, especially in adolescents.
• May impair judgment or reaction time, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Contraindications

• Do not use if you are hypersensitive to aripiprazole or its components.
• Avoid use in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death.
• Use with caution in patients at risk for suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Possible Side Effects

• Common side effects: headache, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, and restlessness.
• May cause weight gain or tremors.
• Serious side effects: high blood sugar, tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a rare but life-threatening reaction).

Drug Interaction

• May interact with medications affecting the central nervous system, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and sedatives.
• Drugs that affect liver enzymes (e.g., carbamazepine, ketoconazole) may alter its levels in the body.
• Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are using.

Missed Dose

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

• Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, tremors, drowsiness, and fast or irregular heartbeat.
• In case of overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.
• Treatment is supportive, and hospitalization may be required.

Storage

• Store aripiprazole at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep the medication tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications, which does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. The information on this site cannot be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed upon with your healthcare adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim the reliability of this information and any mistakes it may contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special, or other damages resulting from the use of the information on this site or the consequences of self-treatment.