Cariprazine (3mg)

Cariprazine (3mg) — Uses and Benefits

Cariprazine is used to treat certain serious mental health conditions affecting mood, thinking, and behaviour.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Schizophrenia in adults
• Manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder
• Depressive episodes associated with bipolar I disorder
• Long-term maintenance treatment as advised by your doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Acts on dopamine D2 and D3 receptors and serotonin receptors in the brain
• Helps restore the balance of these chemical messengers
• Reduces symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, disorganised thinking, and mood swings
• Improves overall daily functioning over time with regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a treatment for anxiety alone or occasional stress
• Not used for insomnia as a first-choice medicine
• Not a cure for mental illness; it controls symptoms
• Not for use in dementia-related psychosis in elderly patients due to safety concerns
• Not meant for recreational or non-prescribed use

How to Use Cariprazine (3mg)

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 stop 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 two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, contact your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

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

Cariprazine (3mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Restlessness or feeling of inner unease (akathisia)
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Nausea or indigestion
• Constipation
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Weight gain
• Tremors or stiffness in muscles
• Vomiting
• Increased appetite
• Fatigue or weakness

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)
• Uncontrollable movements of face, tongue, or limbs
• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening depression
• Signs of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or difficulty breathing
• Seizures

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

Cariprazine (3mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cariprazine 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 a 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 problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of substance abuse or suicidal thoughts

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antipsychotic or antidepressant medicines
• Strong antifungal or antibiotic medicines (may increase cariprazine levels)
• Certain seizure medicines like carbamazepine (may reduce effectiveness)
• Alcohol and sedative medicines (increased drowsiness)
• Blood pressure medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness or sleepiness.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Treatment duration varies by condition and response; your doctor will decide based on your progress.

Can I drink alcohol while on this medicine?

• It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.