ARIPIPRAZOLE

[Sandraan]

HI , was just wondering if anyone has heard of this medication my friend started on this last week and is worrying as she hasn't heard of anybody using this before or of its sucsss rates, was just hoping please that someone on here mite no something ?? Hope everybody is copying ok . Xx

[Maria1971]

Hi Sandraan

I've never heard of it before but found some stuff on google, please see below, not sure if it helps.

GENERIC NAME: aripiprazole

BRAND NAME: Abilify

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Aripiprazole is an anti-psychotic drug for treating psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is also used with other medications to treat major depression in adults. The exact mechanism of action of aripiprazole is unknown. Moreover, like other anti-psychotics, it blocks several receptors on the nerves of the brain for several neurotransmitters (chemicals that nerves use to communicate with each other). It is thought that its beneficial effect is due to its effects on dopamine and serotonin receptors. Its effects on these receptors are complex, involving stimulation of the receptors but to a lesser degree than the naturally-occurring neurotransmitters (a process called partial agonism). The FDA approved aripiprazole in November 2002.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Aripiprazole is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar mania and mixed manic/depressive episodes (as sole or adjunctive therapy) and as adjunctive (add-on) therapy for major depressive disorder. It is also used for treating irritability associated with autistic disorder and agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Aripiprazole may also be used in treatment of Tourette's disorder.

[Maria1971 in reply to Maria1971]

and there's more.

Warnings:

Long-term use of aripiprazole may lead to a potentially irreversible condition called tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the jaw, lips, and tongue).

A potentially fatal complex referred to as neuroleptic malignant syndrome has been reported with anti-psychotic drugs, including aripiprazole. Patients who develop this syndrome may have:

high fevers,

muscle rigidity,

altered

mental status,

irregular pulse or blood pressure,

rapid heart rate,

excessive sweating, and

heart arrhythmias.

[Sandraan in reply to Maria1971]

Thanks so much Maria I told her not to google as she get to much info. D do I'd ask on. Here just incase ? That brilliant thanks and just Enough for her to read, thanks so very much she has got more information from you that her GP or pharmist that great thanks xx

[Maria1971 in reply to Sandraan]

I always like to read the instructions that is supplied with the tablets I don't trust doctors/pharmacist after I found out my dad was getting tablets for the wrong thing.

[Photogeek]

Hi there I really feel your friend should discuss her Meds with her Doctor or

Pharmacist as none of us here are medically qualified, and therefore you could

Be giving your friend wrong information , plus worrying her about side effects, always

Ask your Pharmacist and they will be really helpful.

Hannah

[Sandraan]

Thank you Hannah yes she has done both of what you have said but she wanted to hear from people wha had actually taken it and there comments on it, as she hasn't found anyone who has taken it. Hope your ok