Generic Aripiprazole

Common Use
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat mental and mood disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder (as an add-on treatment). It helps restore the balance of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Aripiprazole can also be used to treat irritability associated with autism in children.

Dosage and Direction
Aripiprazole is usually taken once daily, with or without food, in tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, solution, or injection form. The dose is based on the condition, response to treatment, and age. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may return or worsen.

Precautions
Before using aripiprazole, inform your doctor if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, seizures, diabetes, or liver problems. The drug may increase blood sugar, cholesterol, or weight, especially in adolescents. It may impair judgment or reaction time, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Contraindications
Aripiprazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. It should not be used in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death. Caution is advised in patients at risk for suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include headache, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, and restlessness. Some people may experience weight gain or tremors. Serious side effects include high blood sugar, tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements), and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a rare but life-threatening reaction).

Drug Interaction
Aripiprazole may interact with other medications that affect the central nervous system, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and sedatives. Drugs that affect liver enzymes (like carbamazepine or ketoconazole) may change its levels in the body. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are using.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include vomiting, tremors, drowsiness, and fast or irregular heartbeat. In case of overdose, seek emergency medical help. Treatment is supportive, and hospitalization may be required.

Storage
Store aripiprazole at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep the medication tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)