Aripipazole for Bipolar Disorder

Product name - Aripipazole

Company/Manufacturer - Otsuka Pharmaceuticals

Consumer Demand - Aripipazole is an antipsychotic that is used in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It has been proven to improve the symptoms of major depression in adults when added to other antidepressants. It has been proven to be effective in helping to maintain control of manic symptoms, the highs and lows experienced in bipolar disorder, and reduces the risk of relapse.

Other names - Abilify

Miscellaneous Information - It is important to tell your health care provider if you have ever suffered from any of the following conditions before you start taking Aripipazole. These conditions are: heart disease,seizures, Parkinson's disease, have a history of brain tumors, stroke, head injury, dementia, heart attack, are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, seizures, suicidal thoughts, are breast feeding or any allergies. If you are taking the liquid form, be aware that it can contain up to 15 grams of sugar per dose. For this reason, it is important that your health care physician is monitoring your blood sugar levels.

Aripipazole may cause you to have slower reaction times so it is not advisable to drive or do other activities that will require quick reactions. Be careful not to get up too quickly as you could get dizzy and fall.

It is best not to consume alcohol while taking Aripipazole as it will increase the side effects. It is important not to let yourself become dehydrated. If you are exercising or in very warm weather be sure to drink plenty of water or juice.

You should seek medical help immediately if you start to run a fever, have stiff muscles, become confused, have excessive sweating, seizures, thoughts of suicide, increased urination, loss of apetite, jaundice, nausea or vomiting. Other less severe side effects include choking, constipation, dizziness, sleep problems and weight gain.

Author: C. Anders, BiPolar Disorder Product Reviews