Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ARIPIPRAZOLE - ORAL (ay-ree-PIP-ray-zole)
BRAND NAME(S): Abilify
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat schizophrenia. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily, with or without food; or take as directed by your doctor. Do not take this medication more often or increase your dose without consulting your doctor. Your condition will not improve any faster but the risk of serious side effects will be increased. Do not stop taking this drug without your doctor's approval. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.
SIDE EFFECTS: Vomiting, fever, lightheadedness, dizziness, change in weight, blurred vision or drowsiness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: irregular or unusually fast heartbeat (especially with fever and increased sweating), severe muscle stiffness, uncontrolled muscle movements (especially of the face or tongue), unusual increase in thirst or urination, vision changes. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking aripiprazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease (e.g., history of heart attacks or chest pain, heart failure, irregular heart rhythm), history of stroke, dehydration, seizures, Alzheimer's disease, swallowing problems (e.g., history of aspiration), diabetes (or family history), obesity. To minimize dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a lying or seated position (especially when you first start using this drug or if your doctor changes your dose). This medication can reduce sweating, which makes overheating more likely to occur. Avoid activities that might cause you to overheat (e.g., doing strenuous work, exercising in hot weather, or using hot tubs). Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Depression - Read about depression causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and types, including manic depression (bipolar disorder), postpartum depression and clinical depression.
- Schizophrenia - Get information on schizophrenia symptoms (delusions, hallucinations), causes (genetics), diagnosis, treatment of schizophrenics (antipsychotic medications) and types (paranoid).
- Bipolar Disorder (Mania) - Read about bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), a condition that causes mood swings (mania and depression episodes). Learn about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment information.
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