Key facts about Aripiprazole
What dosages is Aripiprazole available in?
Aripiprazole is available as a 2 mg, 5mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg tablet formulation.
What is Aripiprazole used for?
Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic medication that helps treat several kinds of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, autism spectrum disorder and tourette syndrome.
How does Aripiprazole work?
Aripiprazole works by modulating chemicals in your brain such as dopamine and serotonin which can improve behaviour, mood and thinking. It does not cure the treated condition for which it is prescribed but it can help in the management of the symptoms of the condition.
How do I take Aripiprazole?
Aripiprazole is prescribed to be taken once a day, with or without food. When you are first prescribed Aripiprazole, you will most likely be started on a low dose before having the dose increased slowly over several weeks until you reach optimal therapeutic effect. The oral daily dose range of Aripiprazole ranges from 2 mg to 30 mg. Always take the medication as directed by your physician.
Is it safe for me to take Aripiprazole?
Aripiprazole is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects wity your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Aripiprazole Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Aripiprazole include:
- insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- feeling of restlessness and anxiety
- feeling sick or nauseous
- experiencing indigestion
- experiencing constipation
- feeling sleepy
- blurred vision
- headaches
Aripiprazole Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Aripiprazole. However, If you do notice symptoms of an allergic reaction such as fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, dizziness or trouble breathing, then you should contact your physician as a matter of urgency. This could be a sign that you are allergic to the drug.
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Aripiprazole
The following medications may increase the levels and effects of Aripiprazole:
- clarithromycin (BIAXIN)
- fluoxetine (PROXAC)
- paroxetine (PAXIL)
- nefazodone
- fluconazole (DIFLUCAN)
- ketoconazole (NIZORAL)
- itraconazole (SPORONOX)
- Quinidine
- indinavir (CRIXIVAN)
- ritonavir (NORVIR)
- saquinavir (FORTOVASE, INVIRASE)
- lopinavir/ritonavir (KALETRA)
The following medications may decrease the levels and effects of Aripiprazole:
- carbamazepine (TEGRETOL)
- rifampin (RIFADIN)
Who makes Aripiprazole?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Aripiprazole safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Aripiprazole will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while receiving Aripiprazole, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics. You can register by calling 1-866-961-2388 or go to women’s health
