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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Aripiprazole
Generic Name
Aripiprazole
Active Ingredient
AripiprazoleCategory
Atypical Antipsychotic [EPC]
Variants
237
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mg/1 | TABLET, ORALLY DISINTEGRATING | ORAL | 62332-103 |
| 2 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 63187-965 |
| 15 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 63629-7108 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Aripiprazole, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 30 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 63629-7774 |
| 15 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 65862-664 |
| 20 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 67877-434 |
| 5 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 68788-8089 |
| 15 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 70518-2869 |
| 2 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 71205-480 |
| 20 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 71335-1687 |
| 10 mg/1 | TABLET, ORALLY DISINTEGRATING | ORAL | 72578-106 |
| 5 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 72865-154 |
+ 38 more variants
Detailed information about Aripiprazole
Aripiprazole is a third-generation atypical antipsychotic and dopamine system stabilizer used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and as an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder.
Dosage for aripiprazole is highly individualized based on the condition being treated, the patient's response, and their tolerability. Healthcare providers typically start with a lower dose and titrate (adjust) upward as needed.
Aripiprazole is approved for specific uses in children and adolescents, but dosing must be handled with extreme caution by a specialist.
No dosage adjustment is typically required for patients with renal (kidney) impairment, as renal excretion is a minor pathway for aripiprazole elimination.
Dosage adjustments are generally not required for patients with mild to severe hepatic (liver) impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, or C). However, healthcare providers will monitor these patients closely.
While no routine adjustment is mandated by age alone, older adults may be more sensitive to side effects. Clinical trials have shown an increased risk of stroke and death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis; therefore, aripiprazole is not approved for this use. If used in the elderly for approved indications, clinicians often 'start low and go slow.'
If you miss a dose, 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 schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of adverse effects.
Symptoms of an aripiprazole overdose may include extreme drowsiness, vomiting, tremors, aggression, confusion, and changes in heart rate. In severe cases, coma or respiratory distress can occur. If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. There is no specific antidote for aripiprazole; treatment is supportive, focusing on maintaining the airway and monitoring cardiac function.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking the medication without medical guidance, as this can lead to a relapse of symptoms.
Side effects are common when starting aripiprazole, but many subside as the body adjusts to the medication. The most frequently reported adverse reactions include:
Aripiprazole is a powerful medication that affects the central nervous system. It is vital to understand that this drug does not cure mental health conditions but helps manage the symptoms. Treatment should always be part of a comprehensive plan that may include therapy and lifestyle adjustments. Patients should never share their medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Clinical trials have demonstrated that elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis who take antipsychotics like aripiprazole have a higher risk of death compared to those taking a placebo. Most deaths were related to cardiovascular issues (like heart failure) or infectious diseases (like pneumonia). Aripiprazole is NOT FDA-approved for this population.
Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressants, there was an increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. While aripiprazole is used as an adjunct for depression, caregivers and patients must be vigilant for signs of agitation, irritability, or suicidal ideation, especially during the first few months of treatment or after a dose change.
While there are few absolute contraindications regarding drug-drug interactions for aripiprazole, it should not be used with other medications that cause a severe prolongation of the QT interval (though aripiprazole itself has a low risk of this) or with drugs that have caused a previous severe allergic reaction to aripiprazole. Always consult your pharmacist for a full screening of your current medication list.
There is only one primary absolute contraindication for the use of aripiprazole:
These are conditions where the risk of using aripiprazole may outweigh the benefits, or where extreme caution and close monitoring are required:
Aripiprazole is classified as Pregnancy Category C under the older FDA system, meaning that animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans.
Aripiprazole is excreted in human breast milk. Studies have shown that the drug is present in milk, and there are reports of 'poor feeding' and 'sedation' in infants exposed to aripiprazole through breastfeeding.
Aripiprazole's unique pharmacological profile is defined by its 'partial agonism.' Unlike traditional antipsychotics that fully block dopamine D2 receptors, aripiprazole binds to the D2 receptor but activates it to a limited degree (approximately 25-30% of the effect of natural dopamine). This allows it to act as an antagonist in the presence of high dopamine levels and as an agonist when dopamine levels are low.
Common questions about Aripiprazole
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia and Bipolar I Disorder in adults and children. It is also FDA-approved as an 'add-on' or adjunctive treatment for adults with Major Depressive Disorder who have not responded fully to standard antidepressants. Additionally, healthcare providers prescribe it to manage irritability associated with autism and to treat tics in Tourette’s Disorder. It works by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain to stabilize mood and thoughts. Always use this medication under the strict guidance of a qualified medical professional.
The most common side effects include akathisia (a feeling of restlessness and the need to move), headache, nausea, and insomnia. Some patients may also experience dizziness, blurred vision, or a mild increase in weight. While aripiprazole is generally less sedating than other antipsychotics, some individuals may still feel tired or drowsy. Most of these symptoms are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication over several weeks. If side effects become severe or persistent, contact your doctor to discuss a possible dose adjustment.
It is strongly recommended that you avoid or strictly limit alcohol consumption while taking aripiprazole. Both substances affect the central nervous system and can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Combining them can significantly increase these sedative effects, making activities like driving dangerous. Furthermore, alcohol can interfere with the management of the underlying mental health condition for which aripiprazole was prescribed. Always discuss your alcohol intake honestly with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Aripiprazole should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the developing fetus. Research indicates that infants exposed to antipsychotics in the third trimester may experience withdrawal symptoms or uncontrolled muscle movements after birth. There is no definitive evidence of birth defects in humans, but animal studies have shown some risks. Pregnant women are encouraged to enroll in the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications to help researchers better understand these effects. Consult your obstetrician and psychiatrist to develop a safe treatment plan.
While some patients may notice a slight improvement in symptoms like agitation or sleep within the first week, the full therapeutic effects usually take longer. For conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily use to see significant changes in mood or thought patterns. Because aripiprazole has a very long half-life, it takes about two weeks for the medication to reach a steady level in your bloodstream. It is important to continue taking the medication exactly as prescribed, even if you do not feel better immediately. Do not stop the medication without consulting your doctor.
No, you should never stop taking aripiprazole suddenly without your doctor's approval. Abruptly discontinuing an antipsychotic can lead to a 'rebound' of your symptoms, which may return more severely than before. It can also cause withdrawal-like symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, and extreme restlessness. If you and your doctor decide to stop the medication, they will provide you with a tapering schedule to slowly lower the dose over several weeks or months. This gradual reduction helps your brain chemistry adjust safely and reduces the risk of relapse.
If you miss a dose of aripiprazole, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose entirely and return to your normal routine. Never take two doses at the same time to 'catch up,' as this can increase the risk of serious side effects like extreme drowsiness or tremors. Because aripiprazole stays in your system for a long time, a single missed dose is unlikely to cause an immediate relapse, but consistency is key for long-term success. Using a pillbox or phone alarm can help you stay on track.
Aripiprazole is generally considered to be 'weight-neutral' compared to other atypical antipsychotics like olanzapine or quetiapine. However, some patients do experience a modest increase in weight, typically ranging from 2 to 5 pounds over the course of treatment. This is often due to changes in metabolism or an increase in appetite. It is important to monitor your weight and discuss any significant changes with your doctor. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise routine can help manage this side effect while you are on the medication.
Aripiprazole can interact with several other medications, particularly those processed by the liver's CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes. For example, certain antidepressants (like fluoxetine) or antifungal drugs (like ketoconazole) can increase aripiprazole levels, while others (like carbamazepine) can decrease them. It is also important to be cautious when taking other drugs that cause sedation, such as opioids or benzodiazepines. Always provide your doctor and pharmacist with a complete list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements you are taking. They will check for potential interactions and adjust your doses if necessary.
Yes, aripiprazole is widely available as a generic medication in several forms, including oral tablets and oral solutions. Generic versions are required by the FDA to have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand-name version (Abilify). Generic aripiprazole is typically much more affordable than the brand-name product and is covered by most insurance plans. However, some specialized forms, such as certain long-acting injections or the version with an internal sensor (Abilify MyCite), may still be available only as brand-name products. Consult your pharmacist for the most cost-effective option.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Aripiprazole)
> Warning: Stop taking Aripiprazole and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious reactions.
Prolonged use of aripiprazole requires ongoing monitoring for long-term health impacts:
The FDA has assigned two 'Black Box' warnings to aripiprazole, representing the most serious level of caution:
Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider immediately to ensure safe management of your treatment.
To ensure safety, your healthcare provider will likely require the following regular tests:
Aripiprazole may impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Until you know how the medication affects you, use extreme caution when driving a motor vehicle or operating heavy machinery. Sedation is a common side effect that can significantly slow reaction times.
You should avoid or strictly limit alcohol consumption while taking aripiprazole. Alcohol can worsen the sedative effects of the drug and increase the risk of dizziness, impaired coordination, and respiratory depression. Combining the two can also mask or exacerbate psychiatric symptoms.
Never stop taking aripiprazole abruptly. Doing so can cause a 'rebound' effect, where your original symptoms return more severely. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms like nausea, sweating, and insomnia. If the medication needs to be stopped, your doctor will provide a tapering schedule to gradually reduce the dose over several weeks.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, including heart problems, seizures, or diabetes, with your healthcare provider before starting Aripiprazole.
Aripiprazole does not typically interfere with common laboratory tests, such as urine drug screens for opioids or amphetamines. However, it can cause elevations in blood glucose and alterations in lipid panels, which are physiological changes rather than test interference. Always inform laboratory personnel and your physician of all medications you are taking before blood work.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs.
There is no documented cross-sensitivity between aripiprazole and other classes of antipsychotics (like phenothiazines or butyrophenones). However, if a patient has had a severe allergic reaction to other quinolinone derivatives, healthcare providers should proceed with extreme caution.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any previous drug allergies, before prescribing Aripiprazole.
Aripiprazole is FDA-approved for several pediatric indications:
Safety Concerns: Children and adolescents may be more sensitive to certain side effects, particularly weight gain and extrapyramidal symptoms (movement disorders). Long-term effects on growth and development are not fully established, so regular monitoring of height, weight, and sexual maturation is recommended.
Elderly patients (age 65+) often have reduced renal and hepatic clearance and may be taking multiple other medications (polypharmacy).
The pharmacokinetics of aripiprazole are not significantly altered by renal impairment. No dosage adjustment is required for patients with various degrees of kidney disease, including those on hemodialysis. The drug is not easily removed by dialysis due to its high protein binding.
In patients with mild, moderate, or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh scores), the clearance of aripiprazole is not substantially changed. No routine dose adjustments are necessary based on liver function alone, though clinical monitoring for side effects is always prudent in patients with organ dysfunction.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment and frequent follow-up with a specialist.
The onset of action for aripiprazole varies by condition. While some calming effects may be felt within days, the full antipsychotic or mood-stabilizing effects usually take 2 to 4 weeks of consistent dosing to manifest. Because of its long half-life, steady-state concentrations in the blood are not reached for about 14 days. Tolerance to the therapeutic effects is not typically observed, but physical dependence does not occur in the traditional sense, though 'discontinuation syndrome' is possible if stopped quickly.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 87% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | >99% (primarily Albumin) |
| Half-life | 75 - 94 hours |
| Tmax | 3 - 5 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4, CYP2D6) |
| Excretion | Fecal 55%, Renal 25% |
Aripiprazole is an Atypical Antipsychotic [EPC]. It is often grouped with other 'third-generation' agents like brexpiprazole (Rexulti) and cariprazine (Vraylar), which also share the partial dopamine agonist mechanism. These are distinguished from 'second-generation' agents like quetiapine or risperidone, which are primarily D2 antagonists.