Aripiprazole 15mg

Aripiprazole 15mg — Uses and Benefits

Aripiprazole 15mg is mainly used to treat mental health conditions that affect thinking, mood and behaviour.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar I disorder (manic episodes and maintenance treatment)
• As an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder along with other antidepressants
• Certain behavioural symptoms associated with autistic disorder (in specific age groups, as directed by a specialist)

HOW IT WORKS

• It acts on dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain
• It helps restore the balance of these chemical messengers
• This helps improve thinking, mood, and reduces symptoms like hallucinations, delusions or extreme mood swings

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller or sleeping pill
• It is not used for simple anxiety or everyday stress
• It is not a cure and does not work immediately; it needs regular use as advised
• It should not be used in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to increased risk of serious side effects

This medicine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor, as the underlying conditions need proper diagnosis and monitoring.

How to Use Aripiprazole 15mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is a dispersible form
• Try to take it at the same time every day to build a routine
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly even if you feel better, without consulting your doctor
• It may take a few weeks of regular use to see full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Aripiprazole 15mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or drowsiness)
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Blurred vision
• Excess saliva
• Tremor
• Weight changes
• Restlessness with an urge to move (akathisia)

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• High fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating (signs of a rare condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome)
• Uncontrollable muscle movements of face or body
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Fainting, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain
• Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unusual tiredness
• Severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, or difficulty breathing
• Uncontrolled gambling, eating, or other unusual urges

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Aripiprazole 15mg — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to aripiprazole or any of its ingredients
• Are an elderly person with dementia-related psychosis (increased risk of stroke and death)
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for any specific medical reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have heart disease, low or high blood pressure, or history of stroke
• Have diabetes or a family history of diabetes
• Have a history of seizures
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or depression
• Have a history of substance abuse

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antipsychotics or antidepressants
• Medicines for blood pressure
• Strong CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 inhibitors/inducers (certain antibiotics, antifungals, anti-seizure medicines)
• Alcohol and sedatives, which can increase drowsiness
• Any other prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medicine you are taking

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Is this medicine addictive?

No, aripiprazole is not habit-forming, but it should not be stopped suddenly without medical advice.

Can I drink alcohol while on this medicine?

• It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India. Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.