Aripiprazole is used to treat schizophrenia.
What is Aripiprazole?
Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic. Its exact mechanism of action has not yet been identified. It is known, however, that this medication works by triggering certain molecules in the brain.
How should Aripiprazole be taken?
Aripiprazole can be administered orally (in the form of tablets or solutions) or intramuscularly via injections.
Side effects associated with Aripiprazole
Taking aripiprazole may increase the risk of developing neuroleptic malignant syndrome, heat stroke and uncontrollable muscle movements. It may also increase the risk of stroke in people who are suffering from dementia and increase the risk of infections, diabetes, high blood sugar levels and weight gain.
Among the other possible side effects of aripiprazole include the following:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Feeling faint or lightheaded
- Nausea
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Restlessness
- Stomach discomfort
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness or chest pain
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Unusual hoarseness
- Unusual thoughts
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Slow, fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fever, chills or sore throat
- Excessive sweating
- Involuntary movements of the tongue, face, mouth, jaw, arms, legs or back
- Urinary incontinence
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors , tics or muscle stiffness
- New psychiatric problems or increase in existing ones
- Weakness in one side of body
- Convulsions
- Severe or persistent restlessness
- Shortness of breath
- Suicidal thoughts
- Swelling of the hands, ankles or feet
- Hyperglycemia
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty walking
- Bleeding or bruising
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Vision problems
- Difficulty speaking
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Aripiprazole
Before starting treatment with aripiprazole, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance , its excipients, or any other drugs or food and various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, clarithromycin, fluoxetine, itraconazole, ketoconazole, paroxetine, quinidine, carbamazepine, rifampin, alpha-blockers or medications for high blood pressure
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from heart problems, high or low blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, blood problems, high or low white blood cell count, seizures, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, Alzheimer's or other dementias, depression or other psychiatric disorders, suicidal instincts, dehydration or hypovolemia
- You have recently experienced a stroke
- You are suffering or you have a family history of diabetes or hyperglycemia
- You are overweight
- You drink alcohol on a regular basis
- You are a smoker
- You are exposed to high temperatures on a regular basis
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
Treatment with aripiprazole can compromise the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be exacerbated by alcohol and some drugs. In addition, alcohol, hot weather, strenuous physical exercise and fever can all increase dizziness caused by the medication (especially in the morning). For this reason, it is advisable to get up slowly from lying or seated position.
