Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
ARIPIPRAZOLE - ORAL
(ay-ree-PIP-ray-zole)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Abilify
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. To help you remember, 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: uncontrolled muscle movements (especially of the face or tongue), severe muscle stiffness, irregular or unusually fast heartbeat (especially with fever and increased sweating). An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
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), any allergies. 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 making you susceptible to overheating. Avoid strenuous work or exercise in hot weather, and 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 the side effects of the drug. 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.
Drug Interactions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: quinidine, fluoxetine, paroxetine, carbamazepine, azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), alpha-blockers (e.g., doxazosin, prazosin), medications for treating high blood pressure (e.g., "water pills" or diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide). Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take drugs that cause drowsiness, including: medicine for sleep (e.g., sedatives), tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), other psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: persistent vomiting or persistent drowsiness.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
