Abilify Tablets 2 mg (Aripiprazole)

Adult dose

For the treatment of schizophrenia, the recommended initial dose is either 10 mg or 15 mg once daily, irrespective of meals. Adjustments may be made within the range of 10-30 mg per day, and dosage increases should not occur within 2 weeks. Maintenance therapy should be set at a daily dose of 15 mg for patients stabilized for more than 3 months. For the treatment of acute mania and mixed episodes related to bipolar disorder, the recommended initial dose is 15 mg once daily.

Child dose

For adolescents (13-17 years), the recommended dosage for the treatment of schizophrenia is 10 mg per day, irrespective of meals. The initial daily dose is 2 mg, increased to 5 mg after 2 days, and then to 10 mg after another 2 days.

This medication may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults with major depressive disorder or other psychiatric illnesses; therefore, physicians should exercise caution in prescribing it. During treatment, careful monitoring is required to observe if symptoms worsen or if there are tendencies for suicide or behavioral changes, with family or guardians also needing to closely watch the patient. When administering to patients at risk for bipolar disorder, proper screening tests are necessary to assess if manic or mixed episodes may occur. This medication can cause a rare but serious condition known as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome; if symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, changes in mental status, or autonomic instability occur, medical attention should be sought immediately. Long-term use may lead to irreversible tardive dyskinesia; hence, it should be administered at the minimum effective dose for the shortest duration possible, and discontinuation should be considered if symptoms emerge. In elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, there is an increased risk of cerebrovascular accidents such as strokes and higher mortality rates; therefore, it is advisable not to use this medication in this population. Patients with diabetes or at risk for diabetes should have their blood glucose levels monitored regularly, and if hyperglycemic symptoms arise, medical advice should be sought immediately. This medication may cause orthostatic hypotension; thus, those with cardiovascular diseases or high risk of hypotension should use caution when taking it. Patients with a history of seizures or conditions that lower seizure thresholds should be monitored closely when using this medication. This medication can impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills; therefore, it is best to avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery while taking it. There may be a decreased ability to regulate body temperature, so precautions should be taken to avoid excessive exercise or exposure to hot environments. Patients with swallowing difficulties are at risk for aspiration pneumonia and should use this medication cautiously. For patients with mental disorders, there is an increased risk of suicide; thus, careful monitoring and management are particularly necessary in the early stages of treatment. This medication should not be administered to patients with specific genetic lactose intolerance, nor should it be used in cases of hypersensitivity. Common side effects that may occur during treatment include nausea, vomiting, constipation, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, weight gain, insomnia, and others; if symptoms are severe, medical consultation is advised. After taking the medication, symptoms of abnormal movement, muscle rigidity, tremors, or akathisia may occur; if these symptoms appear, contact your physician immediately. This medication can cause various physiological changes such as changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and blood sugar levels; therefore, regular monitoring is necessary. While taking the medication, patients should start at the minimum dose as directed by a physician and adjust the dose according to symptoms, consulting medical professionals immediately in cases of side effects.

Serious side effects

Hives, severe swelling (edema), chest tightness, difficulty breathing, cold sweats, pallor, severe rash accompanied by high fever, blisters, skin peeling, pain in the mucous membranes of the mouth/eyes, difficulty or shortness of breath, asthma attacks, respiratory issues with cough and fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), extreme lethargy, sudden and severe headaches, thunderclap headache, seizures, confusion, visual disturbances, paralysis, urination

Mild side effects

• Nausea
• vomiting
• constipation
• headache
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• fatigue
• increased appetite
• insomnia
• nasopharyngitis

This medication should be stored in a tightly sealed container to protect it from air and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is between 1 degree and 30 degrees Celsius.

Appearance

Green elongated tablet (imprint A-006 2)

Package unit

30 tablets/box [(10 tablets/PTP x 3)], 100 tablets/bottle, 300 tablets/bottle