Aripiprazole 20mg

Aripiprazole 20mg — Uses and Benefits

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

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar I disorder (mania and mixed episodes)
• As an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder, when advised by a doctor
• Irritability associated with autistic disorder, in some cases as advised by a specialist
• Tourette's disorder, in certain cases

HOW IT WORKS

• It acts on dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain
• It helps balance these chemical messengers, reducing symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and mood swings
• It helps improve thinking, mood and behaviour over time with regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller or sleeping pill
• It is not used for ordinary anxiety or stress
• It is not meant for occasional or as-needed use
• It is not a cure; it controls symptoms and needs to be taken regularly as advised
• It should not be used to treat dementia-related psychosis in elderly patients due to increased risk of stroke and death

How to Use Aripiprazole 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take it at the same time every day to help you remember
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better
• It may take a few weeks to feel the full benefit

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, consult your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Discard expired or unused medicine safely, do not flush it down the drain

Aripiprazole 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Sleep problems (insomnia or excessive sleepiness)
• Restlessness or feeling anxious

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Blurred vision
• Weight gain
• Excess saliva
• Tremors or stiffness
• Increased blood sugar levels

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Uncontrollable muscle movements of face, tongue or limbs
• High fever, stiff muscles, confusion, irregular heartbeat (signs of a rare but serious reaction)
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Fainting, chest pain, or fast/irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing, rash
• Unusual urges (gambling, eating, shopping) that feel out of control
• Seizures

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

Aripiprazole 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to aripiprazole or any of its ingredients
• Are a child under the age advised by your doctor for this use
• Have been advised against it due to a specific heart or blood condition

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have heart disease, low or high blood pressure
• Have diabetes or a family history of diabetes
• Have a history of seizures
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or depression
• Are elderly with dementia-related psychosis

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antipsychotics or medicines affecting the brain
• Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines
• Blood pressure medicines
• Medicines that affect liver enzymes (like certain antibiotics, antifungals, or anti-seizure drugs)
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness and dizziness

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.

Will this medicine make me gain weight?

Some people may experience weight gain; your doctor will monitor your weight and blood sugar during treatment.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly can cause symptoms to return; always consult your doctor before changing your dose.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.