Aripiprazole
Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes for irritability in autism under specialist care. It may also be used as add-on treatment for depression when other antidepressants are not enough.
This medicine is part of the Mental health medicines category.
Generic name: aripiprazole
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes for irritability in autism under specialist care.
How long does it take to work?
Many antidepressants need several weeks on a steady dose before full benefit; your GP usually reviews you in that window.
What are common side effects?
Common effects include restlessness (akathisia), insomnia, anxiety, headache, nausea, and tremor.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Aripiprazole with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Aripiprazole is used for
Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes for irritability in autism under specialist care. It may also be used as add-on treatment for depression when other antidepressants are not enough.
Long-acting injections are an option for some people stabilised on tablets.
How does Aripiprazole work, and how long does it take to work?
It partly stimulates and partly blocks dopamine activity depending on the brain region, which is thought to reduce psychosis and stabilise mood with somewhat different side effects from some older antipsychotics.
Exact benefits depend on diagnosis and individual response.
How and when should you take Aripiprazole?
Usually taken once daily; some people start low and increase gradually. Swallow tablets with water, with or without food as directed.
Do not stop suddenly without medical advice.
What are the common side effects of Aripiprazole?
Common effects include restlessness (akathisia), insomnia, anxiety, headache, nausea, and tremor. Some people have less weight gain than with certain other antipsychotics, but weight change still occurs.
Serious side effects of Aripiprazole — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, compulsive behaviours (gambling or spending have been reported rarely), neuroleptic malignant syndrome symptoms, or allergic reaction.
What if you miss a dose of Aripiprazole?
Take when remembered unless nearly time for next dose. Do not double up.
Who should not take Aripiprazole?
Caution in older people with dementia-related psychosis, epilepsy, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and in pregnancy — specialist input is usual.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Aripiprazole? — other interactions
Strong enzyme inhibitors or inducers (some antibiotics, anticonvulsants, St John’s wort) can change aripiprazole levels. Other dopamine-affecting drugs need review.
Alcohol increases sedation.
Aripiprazole in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Discuss with your psychiatrist or GP before changes in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Blood tests and monitoring on Aripiprazole
Weight, glucose, lipids, and movement side effects may be monitored. Attend mental health reviews.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Aripiprazole?
Other antipsychotics or mood treatments may be considered if aripiprazole is unsuitable or ineffective.
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Frequently asked questions about Aripiprazole
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Aripiprazole used for?
- Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes for irritability in autism under specialist care. It may also be used as add-on treatment for depression when other antidepressants are not enough.
- How long does Aripiprazole take to work?
- Many antidepressants need several weeks on a steady dose before full benefit; your GP usually reviews you in that window. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Aripiprazole with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Aripiprazole with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Aripiprazole?
- Common effects include restlessness (akathisia), insomnia, anxiety, headache, nausea, and tremor. Some people have less weight gain than with certain other antipsychotics, but weight change still occurs. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Why do I feel restless on aripiprazole?
- Akathisia (inner restlessness) is a recognised side effect. Tell your prescriber — dose adjustment or a different medicine may help.
- Is aripiprazole a mood stabiliser?
- It is an antipsychotic used for bipolar disorder and other conditions. “Mood stabiliser” is a broad term your team can explain for your care plan.
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