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CHEMICAL NAME
ARIPIPRAZOLE.
INDICATIONS
Abilify is used to treat schizophrenia. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters).
DIRECTIONS
Take Abilify Tablets by mouth, usually once daily, with or without food; or take as directed by your doctor. Do not take this medication more often or increase your dose without consulting your doctor. Your condition will not improve any faster but the risk of serious side effects will be increased. Do not stop taking this drug without your doctor's approval. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.
SIDE EFFECTS
Vomiting, fever, lightheadedness, dizziness, change in weight, blurred vision or drowsiness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: irregular or unusually fast heartbeat (especially with fever and increased sweating), severe muscle stiffness, uncontrolled muscle movements (especially of the face or tongue), unusual increase in thirst or urination, vision changes. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Before taking aripiprazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease (e.g., history of heart attacks or chest pain, heart failure, irregular heart rhythm), history of stroke, dehydration, seizures, Alzheimer's disease, swallowing problems (e.g., history of aspiration), diabetes (or family history), obesity. To minimize dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a lying or seated position (especially when you first start using this drug or if your doctor changes your dose). This medication can reduce sweating, which makes overheating more likely to occur. Avoid activities that might cause you to overheat (e.g., doing strenuous work, exercising in hot weather, or using hot tubs). Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
OVERDOSAGE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include: persistent vomiting, persistent drowsiness.
INFORMATION
Do not share Abilify with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
NOTES
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Before using Abilify, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: alpha-blockers (e.g., doxazosin, prazosin), azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), carbamazepine, fluoxetine, medications for treating high blood pressure (e.g., "water pills" or diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide), paroxetine, quinidine. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take drugs that cause drowsiness, including: anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), medicine for sleep (e.g., sedatives), muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), other psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), tranquilizers. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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