Indicated for: schizophrenia; bipolar disorder
Substance: aripiprazole (antipsychotic)
ATC: N05AX12 (Nervous system | Antipsychotics | Other antipsychotics)
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used in the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and, in some cases, treatment-resistant major depression. It acts as a partial agonist of dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, as well as an antagonist of 5-HT2A receptors, helping to balance neurotransmitters in the brain.
Aripiprazole is available in tablet form, oral solutions, and long-acting injectable formulations. It is commonly used to reduce psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions and to stabilize mood in affective disorders.
Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and weight gain. In rare cases, severe adverse reactions such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome or tardive dyskinesia may occur.
Aripiprazole is an essential medication for managing psychiatric disorders, helping to improve patients' quality of life by reducing symptoms and preventing relapses.