Abilify-Asimtufii Profile: Abilify Maintena is a medication that helps people with certain mental health conditions. This guide will walk you through what Abilify Maintena is, how it works, and what you need to know to use it safely.
Used to Treat
Abilify Maintena is used to treat:
- Schizophrenia: A mental disorder that makes it hard to tell what is real and what is not. It can cause people to see or hear things that aren’t there (hallucinations), believe things that aren’t true (delusions), and think in a confused way.
- Bipolar I Disorder: A condition that causes extreme mood swings. These can include emotional highs, known as mania, and lows, known as depression.
Formula
The main active ingredient in Abilify Maintena is Aripiprazole, which has the chemical formula C23H27Cl2N3O2. This formula represents the specific combination of atoms that make up the active part of the medication.
Drug Class
Abilify Maintena belongs to a group of medicines called antipsychotics, more specifically atypical antipsychotics. These drugs help manage mental health conditions by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood, thoughts, and behavior.
Ingredients
The primary ingredient in Abilify Maintena is Aripiprazole. It also contains inactive ingredients that help the medicine work effectively and stay stable when stored.
Warnings
Before starting Abilify Maintena, it’s important to know some serious warnings:
- Risk in Older Adults: Abilify Maintena is not approved for treating dementia-related psychosis in older adults because it can increase the risk of death in this population.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Like many medicines used to treat mental health conditions, Abilify Maintena may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young people.
- Metabolic Changes: The drug can cause changes in blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and body weight, which could lead to conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
Always discuss these risks with your doctor before starting the medication.
Dosage
Abilify Maintena is given as an injection by a healthcare provider once a month. This long-acting form of the medication helps maintain a steady level of the drug in your body without needing to take it daily. The dose you receive will depend on your specific condition and how you respond to the treatment.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, Abilify Maintena can have side effects. Here are some common and more serious ones:
Common Side Effects:
- Sleepiness or drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Restlessness
Serious Side Effects:
- Uncontrolled movements (tardive dyskinesia)
- High blood sugar (which can cause symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, and confusion)
- Low blood pressure or fainting
- Seizures
If you notice any serious side effects, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions
Before using Abilify Maintena, tell your doctor if you:
- Have a history of diabetes, heart problems, or seizures.
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Are allergic to Aripiprazole or any other ingredients in the medication.
Avoid drinking alcohol while using this medication, as it can increase some side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
Storage
Abilify Maintena should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should remain in its original packaging until it’s time for your healthcare provider to administer the injection. Keep it out of reach of children.
Manufacturers
Abilify Maintena is produced by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., in collaboration with Lundbeck, a company that focuses on developing treatments for mental health conditions.
Latest Research about Abilify Maintena
Recent research on Abilify Maintena has focused on its effectiveness in treating schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder over the long term. Studies have shown that its monthly injection format helps improve adherence to treatment, which can reduce the risk of relapse. Ongoing research continues to explore how well it works in different populations, including younger patients and those with more severe forms of these conditions.
For the most up-to-date research findings, it’s best to consult medical journals or speak with your healthcare provider.
FAQs
1. How often do I need to take Abilify Maintena?
You will receive an injection of Abilify Maintena once a month from your healthcare provider. This monthly schedule helps maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.
2. What should I do if I miss my injection?
If you miss an appointment for your injection, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule. Keeping up with your monthly injections is important for the medicine to work effectively.
3. Can I drive after getting my injection?
Abilify Maintena can cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you feel these effects after your injection, it’s best to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
4. Is Abilify Maintena safe during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using Abilify Maintena. The medication may pose risks to the unborn baby, so your doctor will help you weigh these against the benefits.
5. How long does it take for Abilify Maintena to start working?
Some people may start to feel better within a few weeks of receiving Abilify Maintena, but it can take longer for the full effects to be felt. It’s important to continue with your treatment and follow up with your healthcare provider.
Abilify Maintena is an important medication for people managing schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. Understanding how it works and following your treatment plan can help you or your loved ones lead a more stable life.
