Indications 

Abilify Discmelt is a prescription medicine indicated for the management of certain mental and mood disorders, including: 

• Schizophrenia 
• Manic or mixed episodes linked to Bipolar I Disorder 
• Major depressive disorder (MDD) as an adjunctive therapy for individuals with an insufficient response to antidepressant treatment 
• Irritability related to autistic disorder 
• Tourette’s disorder 

As an atypical antipsychotic, Abilify Discmelt functions by aiding in the restoration of the balance of naturally occurring brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. 

Restoring neurotransmitter balance can reduce hallucinations, enhance concentration, promote clearer and more positive thinking, reduce anxiety, and foster increased engagement in daily activities. Moreover, it can effectively address severe mood swings and reduce their frequency. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Abilify Discmelt and with every prescription refill, thoroughly review the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist regarding any queries or concerns. 

The dosage of this medication varies for each individual and is determined by their age, medical condition, response to treatment, and concurrent medications. 

Typically, Abilify Discmelt is taken once daily as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

This medication is available in the form of an orally disintegrating tablet, which should not be cut, split, or broken before intake due to its fragility. 

Refrain from removing the tablet from its blister pack until just before ingestion. Ensure your hands are dry before gently peeling back the foil on the blister pack to extract the tablet and avoid pushing the tablet through the foil. 

To take your dose, place the tablet on your tongue, allowing it to dissolve fully, and then swallow it with saliva. Water is not necessary for taking this medication. 

To achieve optimal results, take Abilify Discmelt exactly as directed. Try taking it around the same time each day and ensure you do not increase your dose or take it more often or for longer than prescribed. Increasing the dose or frequency will not expedite improvement and may heighten the risk of adverse effects. 

Continue taking Abilify Discmelt, even if you are feeling better. Avoid discontinuing its use without seeking guidance from your doctor, as some conditions may deteriorate if this medication is abruptly halted. It may be necessary to reduce your dosage gradually. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Abilify Discmelt. Tell your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms continue or deteriorate. 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, or weakness 
• Restlessness 
• Anxiety 
• Headache 
• Upset stomach or vomiting 
• Weight gain 
• Constipation 
• Sleep disturbances 
• Altered appetite 
• Nose or throat irritation 
• Dry mouth 
• Tremors 
• Excessive salivation 
• Nasal congestion 

Serious Side Effects 

• Indicators of elevated blood sugar, including: 
  • Confusion 
  • Increased thirst 
  • Hunger 
  • Frequent urination 
  • Flushing 
  • Rapid breathing 
  • Fruity breath odor 
• Difficulty managing body movements, twitching, altered balance, or difficulty swallowing and speaking 
• Intense and challenging-to-control urges (e.g., for eating, gambling, sexual activity, or spending money) 
• Severe dizziness or loss of consciousness 
• Altered balance 
• Profound fatigue or weakness 
• Seizures 
• Blurred vision 

Contact your doctor immediately and ask for medical help if you experience any of the severe side effects listed above. 

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a severe and potentially fatal health condition, can occur during treatment with Abilify Discmelt. Promptly contact your doctor if you experience: 

• Fever 
• Muscle cramps or rigidity 
• Dizziness 
• Severe headache 
• Confusion 
• Altered cognition 
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat 
• Excessive sweating 

Tardive dyskinesia is a severe muscle problem that can occur with the use of Abilify Discmelt. It may persist even after stopping the medication, especially in older adults and those with diabetes. The risk is higher with longer or higher doses but can also occur with short-term and low doses. Seek medical attention if you experience uncontrollable body movements or issues with your tongue, face, mouth, or jaw. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Abilify Discmelt may trigger a serious allergic response. Immediate medical help must be sought if you observe any indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Skin rash, hives, or itching 
• Redness, swelling, blistering, or peeling skin with or without fever 
• Wheezing, chest, or throat tightness 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list does not encompass all potential side effects of Abilify Discmelt. Inform your doctor in case of any unmentioned side effects. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Abilify Discmelt, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to aripiprazole. 

Ask your pharmacist for more details about Abilify Discmelt, as it could include inactive ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects. 

To ensure Abilify Discmelt is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Brain blood flow issues (e.g., cerebrovascular disease or stroke) 
• Diabetes, including family history 
• Heart conditions (e.g., low blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure, or irregular heartbeat) 
• Nervous system disorders (e.g., dementia, NMS, or seizures) 
• Obesity 
• Low white blood cell count, including prior medication-induced occurrences 
• Swallowing difficulties 
• Sleep-related breathing problems (sleep apnea) 

Some products may interact with Abilify Discmelt, including metoclopramide. To lower the risk of such drug interactions, inform all your healthcare providers of any current or recently started or stopped medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Examine the packaging of all your medications, including allergy or cough-and-cold remedies, as they might include ingredients that induce drowsiness. Seek guidance from your pharmacist on the secure use of such products. 

Furthermore, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are using other substances known to induce drowsiness, including: 

• Opioid pain or cough relievers (e.g., codeine or hydrocodone) 
• Alcohol 
• Marijuana (cannabis) 
• Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, lorazepam, or zolpidem) 
• Muscle relaxants (e.g., carisoprodol or cyclobenzaprine) 
• Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine or diphenhydramine) 

If you have phenylketonuria (PKU, a genetic disorder requiring a specific diet to prevent brain damage leading to severe intellectual disability), note that this orally disintegrating tablet contains phenylalanine.  

Abilify Discmelt can induce drowsiness. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until you are familiar with its impact on you. 

Abilify Discmelt intake can result in dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, particularly when rising quickly from a lying position. This occurrence is more frequent when initiating treatment. To prevent this, gradually transition when getting out of bed, allowing your feet to rest on the floor for a few minutes before standing up. 

Abilify Discmelt can impair your body’s ability to regulate temperature in high heat conditions. Inform your doctor if you intend to exercise strenuously or face extreme heat exposure. 

If Abilify Discmelt is prescribed for children, it should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that might involve counseling and special education. Make sure your child follows all instructions from their doctor or therapist. 

Exercise caution when using Abilify Discmelt if you are 65 years or older, as there is a possibility of experiencing heightened side effects. 

This medication has been associated with the development of compulsive and unusual behaviors such as gambling, excessive shopping, and binge eating. Inform your doctor if you experience these urges or cannot control your behavior. Family members should also be made aware of these risks and encouraged to contact the doctor if necessary. 

Notify your doctor of your pregnancy, particularly during the late stages. If you become pregnant while taking Abilify Discmelt, contact your doctor, as this medication may lead to complications in newborns when taken in the final months of pregnancy. 

It remains uncertain whether aripiprazole or its byproducts are present in human milk. Consult with your doctor before taking Abilify Discmelt to assess the risks and benefits for your baby.