medications
Aripiprazole
Introduction
Aripiprazole (Abilify)1 is an atypical antipsychotic agent that is available by prescription only. It is the sixth and most recent atypical antipsychotic to be approved by the FDA.
Indications
Aripiprazole is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for the treatment of Schizophrenia, as well as acute mania and mixed episodes associated with Bipolar Affective Disorder.
Mechanism of Action
While the exact mechanism of action for antipsychotic medications is unknown, it should be noted that this agent possesses activity that is unique to this drug. It appears to mediate its desired antipsychotic effects primarily by “partial agonism” of D2 and 5-HT1A receptors (as opposed to antagonism).
Potency
It is a high potency antipsychotic medication.
Preparations
Aripiprazole is available in 2, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 mg tablets.
Side Effects
Common side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, insomnia (unlike many antipsychotics, it may be activating) and akathisia.
Other side effects include dizziness or light-headedness, tremor and blurred vision.
Contraindications
This drug should not be taken by people with known hypersensitivity (previous allergic reactions) to the drug or other ingredients. It has not been studied in pregnant women or children. Female patients taking this medication who become pregnant, are considering pregnancy or are not using contraception, or who have recently given birth and are considering breast feeding should notify their physician immediately.
It is not known whether aripiprazole is excreted in breast milk.
Disclaimer
Complete prescribing information can be obtained from your doctor or pharmacist, or by reviewing the package insert. Patients should take this medication only with the approval and supervision and their attending physician.
1Aripiprazole was developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., but is manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb.
(Sources: The FDA (Food and Drug Administration), PDR (The Physician’s Desk Reference), Brystol Myers Squibb and the author’s knowledge base.)
______________________________________________________________________
Related Articles:
______________________________________________________________________
