Uses of Aripiprazole

Aripiprazole is used in the treatment of schizophrenia.

Therapeutic Category

Aripiprazole: Antipsychotics

How Aripiprazole works

Aripiprazole works by regulating the release and uptake of certain chemical messengers (dopamine and serotonin) in the brain that affects thoughts, emotions, body movements and behaviour. As a result, it improves your ability to think, controls your emotions and body movements and stabilizes your mental health.

Common side effects of Aripiprazole

• excessive saliva secretion
• difficulty in sleeping
• anxiety, restlessness
• uncontrollable muscle twitching, jerking or writhing movements
• trembling (feeling shaky)
• headache
• tiredness
• sleepiness
• dizziness
• blurred vision
• constipation
• indigestion
• nausea
• vomiting

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• excessive thirst, urination or hunger, stomach problems with fruity odour
• self-harming thoughts
• worsening depression
• changes in behavior (developing urges or cravings to behave unusually, addictive gambling, excessive eating or spending and abnormal high sex drive)
• neurological emergency disorder causing fever, muscle stiffness or pain, vomiting, sweating, dark urine and decrease in consciousness
• uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue and limbs
• feeling dizzy and faint while standing up
• weight gain
• severe allergic reactions
• irregular heartbeat
• seizures

Health Tips for Aripiprazole

• Take Aripiprazole at the same time each day as directed by your doctor
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Aripiprazole, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects
• Avoid driving or using machinery while taking Aripiprazole as it could make you feel dizzy or drowsy
• Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy or breast feeding
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow regular health checkups
• Aim for a consistent sleep schedule. Adequate sleep is important for overall health