Description
IndicationsÂ
Abilify Oral Solution is a prescribed medication used for:Â
- Managing schizophreniaÂ
- Treating acute manic and mixed episodes linked to Bipolar I disorderÂ
- Supplementary therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD)Â
- Alleviating irritability related to autistic disorderÂ
- Addressing Tourette’s disorderÂ
As an atypical antipsychotic, Abilify Oral Solution functions by rebalancing specific natural brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Â
This restoration of neurotransmitters can diminish hallucinations, improve focus, facilitate clearer and more optimistic thinking, alleviate anxiety, and encourage greater engagement in daily activities. Moreover, it can effectively manage severe mood swings and decrease their occurrence.Â
Uses and DosageÂ
Before taking Abilify Oral Solution and with every prescription refill, thoroughly review the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions or concerns, seek advice from your healthcare provider or pharmacist.Â
The dosage of this medication is determined based on the patient’s medical condition, age, concurrent medications, and response to the treatment.Â
Typically, Abilify Oral Solution is taken once a day as prescribed by the doctor, irrespective of food consumption.Â
To ensure accurate dosing, utilize a specialized measuring cup rather than a household spoon to measure the solution.Â
For best results, take Abilify Oral Solution regularly at around the same times daily, exactly as directed. Avoid altering the dosage or frequency beyond the prescribed regimen, as it will not expedite improvement and may elevate the risk of side effects.Â
Continue taking this medication even if you experience improvement in your condition. Refrain from discontinuing it without consulting your doctor, as abrupt cessation may exacerbate certain conditions. Your dosage may require a gradual tapering process.Â
Side EffectsÂ
Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Abilify Oral Solution. Notify your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms continue or deteriorate.Â
Common Side EffectsÂ
- DizzinessÂ
- LightheadednessÂ
- DrowsinessÂ
- NauseaÂ
- VomitingÂ
- FatigueÂ
- Excessive saliva or droolingÂ
- Blurred visionÂ
- Weight gainÂ
- ConstipationÂ
- HeadacheÂ
- Sleep difficultiesÂ
Serious Side EffectsÂ
- FaintingÂ
- Mental/mood changes, including heightened anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughtsÂ
- Difficulty swallowingÂ
- Restlessness, notably in the legsÂ
- Tremors (shaking)Â
- Muscle spasmsÂ
- Mask-like facial expressionÂ
- SeizuresÂ
- Challenges in managing certain urges, such as gambling, sexual behaviors, eating, or shoppingÂ
- Disrupted breathing during sleepÂ
Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe side effects listed above.Â
Abilify Oral Solution may infrequently elevate blood sugar levels, potentially exacerbating or causing diabetes. Promptly notify your doctor if you experience signs of high blood sugar, like increased thirst or urination. Â
If you already have diabetes, regularly monitor your blood sugar as instructed and communicate the results to your doctor, who may need to modify your diabetes treatment, exercise regimen, or dietary plan.Â
On rare occasions, Abilify Oral Solution may lead to tardive dyskinesia, which can sometimes become a permanent condition. Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual, involuntary movements, particularly in the face, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs.Â
The use of Abilify Oral Solution can infrequently lead to a severe condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any of the following symptoms: Â
- FeverÂ
- Muscle stiffnessÂ
- PainÂ
- TendernessÂ
- WeaknessÂ
- Severe fatigueÂ
- Profound confusionÂ
- Excessive sweatingÂ
- Rapid or irregular heartbeatÂ
- Darkened urineÂ
- Signs of kidney issues, like changes in urine outputÂ
Allergic ReactionsÂ
In rare cases, Abilify Oral Solution may trigger a serious allergic response. Promptly seek medical assistance if you detect any signs of an allergic response, such as:Â
- FeverÂ
- Enlarged lymph nodesÂ
- Skin rashÂ
- Itching and swelling, notably in the face, tongue, or throatÂ
- Severe dizzinessÂ
- Difficulty breathingÂ
This list does not encompass all potential side effects of Abilify Oral Solution. Tell your doctor in case of any unmentioned side effects.Â
CautionsÂ
Before starting treatment with Abilify Oral Solution, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to aripiprazole.Â
Ask your pharmacist for more details about Abilify Oral Solution, as it could contain inactive ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects.Â
To ensure Abilify Oral Solution is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of:Â
- Cerebrovascular disease and strokeÂ
- Diabetes, including family historyÂ
- Heart issues like low blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and irregular heartbeatÂ
- Nervous system disorders such as dementia, NMS, and seizuresÂ
- ObesityÂ
- Low white blood cell counts due to medicationÂ
- Swallowing difficultiesÂ
- Sleep apneaÂ
Certain medications, like metoclopramide, can have interactions with Abilify Oral Solution. To minimize the chances of these interactions, inform all healthcare providers about any current or recently discontinued medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as vitamins and herbal supplements.Â
Inspect the packaging of all your medications, including allergy or cough-and-cold remedies, as they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Consult your pharmacist for advice on the safe usage of these products.Â
Likewise, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are using other products known to induce drowsiness, including:Â
- AlcoholÂ
- Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine)Â
- Marijuana (cannabis)Â
- Muscle relaxants (e.g., carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine)Â
- Opioid pain or cough relievers (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone)Â
- Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem)Â
Abilify Oral Solution may induce drowsiness. Refrain from driving or operating machinery until you know the medication’s impact on your alertness.Â
Taking Abilify Oral Solution may result in dizziness, lightheadedness, and potential fainting, especially when transitioning from a supine position. This occurrence is more frequent when initiating treatment. To prevent this issue, rise from bed gradually, allowing your feet to rest on the floor for a few minutes before standing upright.Â
Abilify Oral Solution can impede your body’s ability to regulate temperature during high heat conditions. Inform your doctor if you intend to engage in intense physical activity or will be exposed to extreme heat.Â
Abilify Oral Solution can result in uncontrolled muscle movements and withdrawal symptoms in the newborn when taken during the third trimester of pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant before starting this medication.Â
Aripiprazole is excreted in breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on the most suitable feeding method for your infant while taking Abilify Oral Solution.Â