Aripra

Indications

Aripra is prescribed for the following conditions:

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder
• Irritability associated with autistic disorder
• Agitation related to schizophrenia or bipolar mania

Usage should follow the advice of a registered healthcare provider.

Pharmacology

Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic, with its therapeutic effects attributed to a combination of partial agonist activity at Dopamine D2 and Serotonin 5-HT 1A receptors, alongside antagonist action at Serotonin 5-HT 2A receptors. This unique mechanism helps improve conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, irritability associated with autism, and agitation linked to schizophrenia or bipolar mania.

Dosage

• Schizophrenia (Adults):
  • Initial Dose: 10-15 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 10-15 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 30 mg/day
• Schizophrenia (Adolescents, 13-17 years):
  • Initial Dose: 2 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 10 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 30 mg/day
• Bipolar Mania (Adults – Monotherapy):
  • Initial Dose: 15 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 15 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 30 mg/day
• Bipolar Mania (Adults – Adjunct to Lithium or Valproate):
  • Initial Dose: 10-15 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 15 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 30 mg/day
• Bipolar Mania (Pediatric Patients, 10-17 years – Monotherapy or Adjunct to Lithium/Valproate):
  • Initial Dose: 2 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 10 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 30 mg/day
• Adjunctive Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (Adults):
  • Initial Dose: 2-5 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 5-10 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 15 mg/day
• Irritability in Autism (Pediatric Patients, 6-17 years):
  • Initial Dose: 2 mg/day
  • Recommended Dose: 5-10 mg/day
  • Maximum Dose: 15 mg/day

Consult a registered healthcare provider before use.

Administration

• Oral Formulation: Take once daily, with or without meals.
• IM Injection: Administer with at least a 2-hour gap between doses. The maximum daily dose is 30 mg.

Follow the guidance of a registered healthcare provider.

Interactions

Aripra should be used with caution when combined with other centrally acting medications or alcohol. Medications like carbamazepine may reduce Aripra levels, while drugs such as ketoconazole, quinidine, fluoxetine, or paroxetine can increase blood levels of Aripra.

Contraindications

Aripra is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to aripiprazole.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include vomiting, nausea, akathisia, extrapyramidal symptoms, drowsiness, sedation, dizziness, insomnia, tremors, restlessness, fatigue, blurred vision, increased salivation, constipation, fever, drooling, and reduced appetite.

Pregnancy and Lactation

• Pregnancy Category C: Should be avoided during pregnancy.
• Women using Aripra should refrain from breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Increased risk of cerebrovascular adverse events (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attacks).
• Suicidality: Increased risk of suicidality in children, adolescents, and young adults with major depressive disorder.
• Tardive Dyskinesia: Discontinue if clinically indicated.
• Metabolic Changes: May cause hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and weight gain.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Use cautiously in individuals with cardiovascular or cerebrovascular conditions.
• Seizures: Caution advised in those with a history of seizures.
• Always exercise caution when operating machinery.

Overdose Effects

Overdoses of Aripra up to 1080 mg have not resulted in fatalities. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, and somnolence.

Therapeutic Class

Atypical Neuroleptic Drugs

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.