Cariprazine (1.5mg)

Cariprazine (1.5mg) — Uses and Benefits

Cariprazine (1.5mg) is used to treat mental health disorders that affect thinking, mood, and behaviour.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of schizophrenia
• Treatment of manic or mixed episodes linked to bipolar I disorder
• Treatment of depressive episodes linked to bipolar I disorder, as advised by your doctor
• Long-term maintenance treatment to prevent relapse of symptoms, when prescribed

HOW IT WORKS

• Acts on dopamine D2 and D3 receptors and serotonin receptors in the brain
• Helps restore the balance of these chemical messengers
• This helps reduce symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, mood swings, and disorganised thinking

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a cure for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, only controls symptoms
• Not used for anxiety alone or for occasional stress
• Not used for dementia-related behavioural problems in elderly patients due to safety concerns
• Not a sleep medicine and should not be used only for insomnia

How to Use Cariprazine (1.5mg)

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 or capsule whole 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 suddenly without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better
• It may take several weeks of regular use 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 dose and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses for several days, consult your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack until it is time to take it
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Cariprazine (1.5mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Restlessness or feeling unable to sit still
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleepiness or tiredness
• Constipation
• Increased appetite or mild weight gain

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty sleeping
• Muscle stiffness or tremor

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• High fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, sweating (signs of a rare but serious reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome)
• Uncontrolled repetitive movements of face or body (may indicate tardive dyskinesia)
• Sudden mood changes, thoughts of self-harm, or worsening depression
• Fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat
• Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face/throat, rash, or difficulty breathing

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

Cariprazine (1.5mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cariprazine or any of its ingredients
• Have been advised against antipsychotic use due to a specific heart or blood condition, without doctor clearance
• Are a dementia patient with psychosis, unless specifically advised by a specialist, due to increased risk of stroke and death in this group

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

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

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antipsychotics or medicines that affect the central nervous system
• Strong antifungal or antibiotic medicines that affect liver enzymes
• Medicines for seizures such as carbamazepine
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness
• Blood pressure medicines, due to risk of low blood pressure

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medicine.

How long does it take to work?

Some improvement may be seen in a few weeks, but full benefit can take several weeks of continuous use.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly can cause symptoms to return; any changes should be made only under your doctor's guidance.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.