Aripiprazole

Generic Details

Generic Name

Aripiprazole

Other Names

Abilify

Drug Class

Atypical Antipsychotic

Chemical Formula

C23H27Cl2N3O2

Molecular Weight

448.38 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

Partial agonist at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors; antagonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptor

Indications

Schizophrenia
Bipolar disorder
Major depressive disorder
Autism spectrum disorder
Tourette's disorder
Irritability associated with autistic disorder
Agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder

Common Dosage Forms

Tablet
Oral solution

Typical Dosage

10-15 mg once daily for schizophrenia
5-10 mg once daily for bipolar disorder
2-5 mg once daily for major depressive disorder

Pediatric Dosage

Dosage adjustments may be required based on weight and condition

Geriatric Dosage

Lower starting doses may be needed in the elderly

Side Effects

Drowsiness
Headache
Nervousness
Insomnia
Constipation
Weight gain
Tremor

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to aripiprazole
Severe cardiac disorders

Pregnancy Category

C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

Limited data available; use with caution

Drug Interactions

Antidepressants
Antifungals
Antipsychotics
Benzodiazepines
Beta blockers

Overdose Symptoms

Extreme drowsiness
Uncontrolled muscle movements
Agitation

Antidote for Overdose

There is no specific antidote; treatment is supportive

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well-absorbed orally, peak plasma levels in 3-5 hours
Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, enters breast milk
Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes
Excretion: Mainly via feces (55%) and urine (45%)

Precautions

Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults
Caution in patients with a history of seizures or neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Warnings

Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis