Aripiprazole 30 mg

Aripiprazole 30 mg — Uses and Benefits

Aripiprazole 30 mg belongs to a group of medicines called atypical antipsychotics. It is mainly prescribed to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and sometimes as an add-on treatment for depression that has not responded well to other medicines.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Schizophrenia
• Manic and mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder
• Maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder
• As an add-on therapy for major depressive disorder, when advised by a doctor
• Certain behavioural symptoms associated with autism, when specifically prescribed

HOW IT WORKS

• Acts on dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain
• Helps regulate abnormal brain chemical activity linked to mood, thought and behaviour
• Reduces symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and mood swings over time

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a cure for mental illness; it controls symptoms
• Not used for general anxiety or everyday stress
• Not meant for sleep problems alone
• Not to be used in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to increased risk of serious side effects
• Not a substitute for counselling or therapy, which may be needed alongside

How to Use Aripiprazole 30 mg

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 your doctor says it is fine
• Try to take it at the same time each day to build a routine
• Do not stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better
• It may take several 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
• Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink
• Discard expired medicine safely, do not use after the expiry date

Aripiprazole 30 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Restlessness or feeling of inner unease
• Sleep disturbances (too much or too little)
• Anxiety

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Blurred vision
• Weight gain
• Dizziness, especially when standing up quickly
• Excess saliva
• Tremor or muscle stiffness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Uncontrollable muscle movements of face, tongue or limbs
• High fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating (signs of a rare but serious reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome)
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger
• Fainting, irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing, rash
• Unusual urges (gambling, spending, eating, sexual urges)

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

Aripiprazole 30 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should not be used without a valid doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to aripiprazole or any of its ingredients
• Are an elderly person with dementia-related psychosis (risk of stroke and death is higher)
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for a specific health 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 disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or self-harm
• Consume alcohol regularly

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antipsychotics or sedatives
• Antidepressants
• Blood pressure medicines
• Antifungal or certain antibiotic medicines
• Anti-seizure medicines like carbamazepine
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness

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 may monitor your weight and blood sugar periodically.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

• Duration varies by condition and response; do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.