Abilify Oral Solution (Aripiprazole)

Description

Indications

Aripiprazole is prescribed for addressing symptoms associated with schizophrenia and is utilized either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other medications to manage episodes of mania or mixed episodes in individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This medication is used alongside an antidepressant to address depression when the symptoms are not effectively controlled by the antidepressant alone.

Aripiprazole can additionally be utilized in the treatment of autistic disorder in children aged 6 to 17 and is employed for the treatment of Tourette’s disorder in children aged 6 to 18. Aripiprazole belongs to a class of medications known as atypical antipsychotics and operates by modifying the activity of specific natural substances in the brain.

Uses and Dosage

Aripiprazole is available in various forms, including tablets, a liquid solution, and orally disintegrating tablets designed to dissolve rapidly in the mouth. It is typically taken once a day, either with or without food. To ensure consistency, take aripiprazole at approximately the same time every day.

Adhere to the prescribed dosage precisely, avoiding both overuse and underuse, and do not alter the frequency without your doctor’s approval.

When dealing with orally disintegrating tablets, refrain from pushing the tablet through the foil. Instead, use dry hands to peel back the foil packaging, place the entire tablet on your tongue without splitting it, and allow it to dissolve quickly before swallowing. If necessary, you may use liquid to aid in swallowing the tablet.

Swallow the tablets containing a sensor whole, without dividing, crushing, or chewing. These tablets are accompanied by a wearable sensor patch and a smartphone app that provides information about your medication intake. Download the app onto your smartphone before beginning the medication. Apply the patch to the left side of your body above the lower edge of the rib cage as directed by the smartphone app instructions. Change the patch weekly or sooner if required, and follow app instructions for correct application and removal. Keep the patch on during activities like showering, swimming, or exercising. In case of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), replace the patch promptly. If skin irritation occurs, remove the patch and inform your doctor. The app can detect the tablets within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion. If not detected, do not take another dose; consult your doctor with any questions about tablet intake, patch application, or smartphone app use.

Your doctor may initiate aripiprazole at a low dose, adjusting it gradually based on effectiveness and experienced side effects.

While aripiprazole can help manage symptoms, it does not cure the condition. It might take up to 2 weeks or more to feel the full benefits. Continue taking aripiprazole even if you start feeling well, and do not discontinue it without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• headache
• nervousness
• restlessness
• dizziness, feeling unsteady, or having trouble keeping your balance
• heartburn
• constipation
• diarrhea
• stomach pain
• weight gain
• changes in appetite
• increased salivation
• pain, especially in the arms, legs, or joints
• tiredness

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• rash
• hives
• itching
• swelling of the eyes, face, mouth, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• seizures
• changes in vision
• uncontrollable shaking of the face, tongue, or other body parts
• fever; stiff muscles; sweating; confusion; sweating; or fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• problems with coordination or increased falls
• tightening of the neck muscles
• throat tightness

Caution

• Before initiating aripiprazole, it’s important to communicate with your doctor or pharmacist about any existing allergies, as the medication may contain inactive ingredients that could potentially trigger allergic reactions.
• Prior to using this medication, provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blood flow issues in the brain, diabetes (including family history), heart problems, nervous system problems, obesity, low white blood cell count (including history caused by medications), swallowing problems, or sleep apnea.
• Aripiprazole may induce dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The use of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from activities requiring alertness or clear vision, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely.
• This medication may reduce sweating, increasing the risk of heat stroke. Avoid activities that may cause overheating, such as strenuous work or exercise in hot weather, and be cautious with hot tub use. Stay well-hydrated and dress lightly in warm weather. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience persistent fever, changes in mental/mood, headache, or dizziness.
• Aripiprazole may contain aspartame, and if you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any condition requiring limitation or avoidance of aspartame (or phenylalanine) in your diet, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on using this medication safely.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to certain side effects, including seizures, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, tardive dyskinesia, swallowing problems, and other serious (rarely fatal) side effects. Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion can increase the risk of falls.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary, and discuss potential benefits and risks with your doctor. Newborns born to mothers using aripiprazole during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop symptoms such as muscle stiffness or shakiness, drowsiness, feeding/breathing difficulties, or constant crying. Promptly inform the doctor if you observe any of these symptoms in your newborn, especially during the first month.
• Given that untreated mental/mood problems can be serious, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, do not discontinue this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, are pregnant, or suspect you may be pregnant, discuss with your doctor the potential benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.
• Aripiprazole passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Abilify Oral Solution is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Abilify Oral Solution oral solution:
  • 1 mg / mL

FAQ

How long does Abilify Discmelt take to work?

Depending on your condition it can take a few days, or sometimes a few weeks, for Abilify Discmelt to start helping you. You may not feel the full effects of the medicine for 2 to 3 months.

Will I gain weight while taking Abilify Discmelt?

Taking Abilify Discmelt may make you lose weight or put on weight. You’re less likely to put on weight while taking Abilify Discmelt than some other antipsychotic medicines.

Resources

1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/aripiprazole/common-questions-about-aripiprazole/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/aripiprazole-oral-route/description/drg-20066890
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-64439/abilify-oral/details
4. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603012.html
5. https://www.drugs.com/cdi/abilify-aripiprazole-oral-solution.html