Abilify Maintena Kit

The active ingredient in Abilify Maintena is aripiprazole. Aripiprazole is thought to work by helping balance chemicals in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters play key roles in mood, thoughts, and behavior. By stabilizing these pathways, Abilify Maintena helps support long-term symptom control during maintenance treatment of schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder. Its extended-release formula allows the medicine to work slowly over a full month.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Abilify Maintena. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Abilify Maintena:

• Abilify Maintena injection is administered into the deltoid or gluteal muscle once every 4 weeks.
• Most patients must take oral aripiprazole for 14 days after the first injection to maintain stable levels.
• Your healthcare provider will determine your dose and injection site based on your needs and tolerability.
• Do not attempt to inject Abilify Maintena yourself.
• Avoid standing up quickly while on this medication, as lightheadedness (orthostatic hypotension) may occur.
• Do not drink alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness or affect motor skills.
• Continue treatment as scheduled and do not skip injections. Always contact your healthcare provider if you miss an appointment.

Some mild or common side effects of Abilify Maintena seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Injection site pain.
• Weight gain.
• Akathisia or restlessness.
• Drowsiness or sleepiness.
• Constipation.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Abilify Maintena. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) include high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, or changes in body temperature.
• Tardive dyskinesia, which may cause uncontrollable facial or body movements.
• Severe orthostatic hypotension or fainting.
• High blood sugar or hyperglycemia, including increased thirst or frequent urination.
• Changes in heart rate or blood pressure.
• Compulsive urges or new or increased sexual urges.
• Hallucinations, severe agitation, or worsening mental health symptoms.
• Allergic reactions, including swelling, rash, or trouble breathing.

These are not all of the possible adverse reactions of Abilify Maintena. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Abilify Maintena, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

Heart rhythm problems or heart disease.

A history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

High blood sugar, diabetes, or risk factors for hyperglycemia.

High cholesterol or metabolic concerns.

Low blood pressure, dizziness, or dehydration.

A history of seizures.

Trouble regulating body temperature, especially in hot weather.

A history of compulsive or impulsive behaviors.

Low white blood cell count (WBC) or previous blood disorders.

Known hypersensitivity to aripiprazole or any component of the injection.

Some patients may notice improvement in symptoms within the first few weeks, but full benefit often appears after several injections due to the medicine’s extended-release properties.

When Abilify Maintena is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Medications that affect blood pressure.
• Drugs that cause sedation or affect motor skills.
• Strong CYP enzyme inhibitors or inducers affecting aripiprazole metabolism.
• Antipsychotic medicine combinations that increase side effects.
• Supplements that affect mood, alertness, or blood pressure.

It is available as pre-filled or single-use vials in doses of 300mg or 400mg of aripiprazole.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Abilify Maintena is manufactured by Otsuka America Pharmaceutical.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop receiving injections without speaking to your healthcare provider. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms or worsening schizophrenia or bipolar I symptoms.

Antipsychotics like Abilify Maintena can sometimes harm your baby if taken while pregnant. Some problems can include uncontrolled muscle movement or withdrawal symptoms after birth. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risk to your unborn baby and about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics.

Aripiprazole passes into breast milk and can decrease milk supply.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.