Shop Aripiprazole Online | Abilify & Generic Prices
Aripiprazole: Comprehensive Information
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat various mental health conditions. It is available in several forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, oral solution, and injectable solutions. The active ingredient is Aripiprazole.
Indications
- Schizophrenia in adults and adolescents 13 years and older.
- Bipolar I Disorder: acute treatment of manic or mixed episofes in adults and adolescents 10 years and older, and maintenance treatment in adults.
- Adjunctive treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults.
- Irritability associated with autistic disorder in pediatric patients 6 years and older.
- Tourette's Disorder in pediatric patients 6 years and older.
Mechanism of Action
Aripiprazole acts as a partial agonist at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, and an antagonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. By modulating the activity of these neurotransmitters in the brain, it helps to rebalance dopamine and serotonin levels, which are thought to be involved in the symptoms of psychosis, mania, and depression.
Safety Profile
Benefits: Aripiprazole can significantly reduce symptoms of psychosis, stabilize mood in bipolar disorder, and alleviate depressive symptoms when used adjunctively. It may also help manage behavioral issues in certain pediatric conditions.
Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, restlessness (akathisia), and weight gain. Less common but serious side effects may include tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, muscle stiffness, confusion), metabolic changes (high blood sugar, high cholesterol, weight gain), and orthostatic hypotension (dizziness upon standing).
Contraindications: Aripiprazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components.
Warnings: Aripiprazole carries a boxed warning regarding increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies. Patients should be monitored for worsening depression, unusual changes in behavior, and suicidal thoughts.
Dosage Table
| Condition | Recommended Dosage (Adults) | Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Schizophrenia | 10-15 mg once daily | Continuous |
| Bipolar I Disorder (Acute Mania) | 10-15 mg once daily | Up to 6 weeks |
| Bipolar I Disorder (Maintenance) | 5-15 mg once daily | Continuous |
| Major Depressive Disorder (Adjunctive) | 5-15 mg once daily | Continuous |
| Autistic Disorder (Irritability) | 2-15 mg once daily | Variable |
| Tourette's Disorder | 5-10 mg once daily | Variable |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take for Aripiprazole to work?
The onset of action can vary depending on the condition being treated. For symptoms of psychosis or mania, improvements may be noticeable within a few days to a couple of weeks. For depression, it may take several weeks to see the full benefit when used as an add-on therapy.
2. Can I stop taking Aripiprazole suddenly?
It is generally not recommended to stop Aripiprazole abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of the underlying condition. Always consult your doctor before stopping or changing your dosage.
3. What are the most common side effects of Aripiprazole?
The most frequently reported side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, and akathisia (a feeling of inner restlessness). If any side effects are bothersome or severe, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
4. Is Aripiprazole addictive?
Aripiprazole is not considered addictive in the way that substances of abuse are. However, it is a powerful medication that affects brain chemistry, and abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms. It should be taken exactly as prescribed.
5. Can Aripiprazole be taken with other medications?
Aripiprazole can interact with several other medications, including other psychotropic drugs, certain antifungals, and St. John's Wort. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
