Aripiprazole Warnings, Brand Name, Dosage, Interactions & Side Effects

Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication used in the treatment of multiple mood and mental health disorders. These include schizophrenia, Tourette syndrome, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. In this short article, we cover the uses, dosage, side effects, warnings, and interactions of aripiprazole.

Aripiprazole Warnings

Aripiprazole comes with mulitple warnings, including the following. Contact your doctor or call 911 immediately if you think you are experiencing any of these serious side effects and conditions.

Aripiprazole Dementia Warning

This medication is not approved for use in older adults with dementia-related psychosis. Contact your doctor if you have dementia and are considering taking aripiprazole.

Blood Sugar Warning

Taking aripiprazole consistently can significantly increase blood sugar levels. Do not take aripiprazole if you have a history of high blood sugar or currently take another medication known to increase blood sugar.

Low White Blood Cell Count

Aripiprazole may significantly reduce the amount of white blood cells in patients who take the drug. This can lead to a higher chance of infection. Call your doctor right away if you experience signs of infection like fever or chills while taking aripiprazole.

Aripiprazole Uses

The most common uses of aripiprazole include the mental health disorders schizophrenia, Tourette syndrome, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder. In some cases, it can also be used to alleviate side effects caused by autistic disorder.

Aripiprazole Pronunciation

To pronounce aripiprazole, sound out the following syllables:

eh - ruh - pi - pruh - zl

How Does Aripiprazole Work?

Aripiprazole works to control and maintain the levels of certain neurotransmitters within the brain. It does so by inhibiting the effects of dopamine receptors. Aripiprazole can reduce the frequency of hallucinations and improve focus.

How To Take Aripiprazole

Take aripiprazole as directed by your licensed doctor or physician. Aripiprazole comes as an oral tablet that should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. If you have been prescribed Abilify tablets of aripiprazole, peel open the packaging, remove the tablet and place it on your tongue before swallowing.

Why Take Aripiprazole In The Morning?

Aripiprazole does not have to be taken exclusively in the morning. If you find that taking aripiprazole at night causes insomnia or other mild side effects, you should take it in the morning.

Aripiprazole Dosage

Your dosage for aripiprazole can vary depending on the following factors:

- Your age

- Your weight

- Your condition

- Other health conditions

Aripiprazole Dosage For Bipolar Mania

Adult: Initial dosage is 15mg once per day. Dosage may be adjusted by doctor but should not exceed 30mg per day.

Dosage For Depression

Adult: At first, 2 to 5mg per day. Dosage may be adjusted by doctor but should not exceed 15mg per day.

Dosage For Schizophrenia

Adult: At first, 10 to 15mg per day. Dosage may be adjusted by doctor but should not exceed 30mg per day.

Children's Dosage For Tourette's Disorder

Children 6-18 years old: At first, 2mg per day. Dosage may be adjusted by doctor but should not exceed 20mg per day.

Aripiprazole Side Effects

Taking aripiprazole may cause unwanted side effects. Some side effects of aripiprazole are more serious and less common than others.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects of aripiprazole are common, relatively mild, and should disappear within a few days. These symptoms include the following:

- Headache

- Nervousness

- Dizziness

- Heartburn

- Constipation

- Stomach pain

- Diarrhea

- Blurred vision

- Weight gain

If these side effects are mild, they should disappear within a few days. If side effects persist, talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional.

Serious Side Effects

Other side effects of aripiprazole are more serious and may require medical attention. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects. Call 911 if you think your symptoms may be life-threatening.

- Twitching

- Severe irritation

- Seizure

- Muscle convulsions

- Low blood cell count

- Severe anemic reaction

- High blood sugar

- Increased urination

- Increased thirst

- Problems with speech

- Trouble swallowing

Disclaimer: Here at Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.

Aripiprazole Brand Name

Aripiprazole is available as the brand name drugs Abilify and Abilify MyCite.

Interactions Of Aripiprazole

Aripiprazole has been shown to interact with the following medications and products:

- Antidepressants such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, and nefazodone.

- Antifungals such as fluconazole, ketoconazole, and itraconazole.

Does Aripiprazole Cause Weight Gain?

Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic drug that can cause weight gain in some patients. You can help prevent weight gain from this medication by making healthier lifestyle choices.