What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole)
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Product Details
Description
Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat and manage schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. It is an injectable medication that works by balancing levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. As a result, Abilify Maintena may help improve thoughts, mood, and behavior.
Fact Table
Formula
C23H27Cl2N3O2
License
US FDA, EU EMA, US DailyMed
Bioavailability
87%
Legal status
Rx-only
Chemical Name
Aripiprazole
Elimination half-life
75 hours
Dosage (Strength)
400mg Maintena
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Brands
Abilify Maintena
Protein binding
99%
PubChem CID
60795
MedlinePlus
a603012
ChEBI
31236
ATC code
N05AX12
DrugBank
DB01238
KEGG
D01164
Routes of administration
Intramuscular
Directions
Abilify Maintena (aripiprazole) is an extended-release injection administered by a healthcare provider at a doctor's office or hospital once every month. Before starting Abilify Maintena, patients without a history of aripiprazole use may need to start with oral aripiprazole for up to two weeks. The recommended Abilify Maintena dosing is 400 mg once monthly into the muscle (intramuscularly) of the upper arm or buttocks.
When receiving the injection, follow the healthcare provider's instructions and guidance. Keep in mind that dosage adjustments may be necessary, and your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for your specific condition and needs. Adhere to the injection schedule without missing or delaying doses, as this can affect the medication's efficacy and consistency in treating symptoms.
Ingredients
The primary ingredient in Abilify Maintena is Aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic that works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain. In addition to the active ingredient, aripiprazole, Abilify Maintena may contain inactive ingredients that function as carriers, stabilizers, and preservatives. These ingredients ensure that the medication is safe, stable, and able to provide a consistent release of aripiprazole into the body.
Contraindications
Avoid using Abilify Maintena if you have an allergy to Aripiprazole or any of the ingredients in the medication.
Cautions
- Before starting treatment with Abilify Maintena, discuss the following with your doctor:
- Any medications you take, including blood pressure medications, seizure medications, and other psychiatric medications
- Any pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, seizures, or heart problems
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, Abilify Maintena may pass into breast milk and have unknown effects on an unborn child.
- There's a higher chance of brain-related side effects for elderly patients, such as strokes or brief blockages of blood flow to the brain, some of which have been fatal.
- If you show symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, like high fever or muscle stiffness, stop taking the medication right away and seek medical help.
- This condition involves involuntary movements. If you notice such symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.
- Taking Abilify Maintena might lead to certain health problems like high blood sugar, changes in cholesterol levels, and weight gain. Look out for symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, and feeling weak. If you have or are at risk for diabetes, you should check your blood sugar regularly.
- If you notice an uncontrollable urge to gamble or other compulsive behaviors, consider talking to your doctor about reducing the dose or stopping the medication.
- Be cautious if you have heart or brain-related problems, as the medication may lower your blood pressure when standing up.
- If you've had low white blood cell counts in the past, it's important to regularly test your blood while on Abilify Maintena. If there's a significant drop without any other reason, you might need to stop the medication.
- If you've had seizures or are prone to them, be extra cautious when taking Abilify Maintena.
- Abilify Maintena may affect your thinking or motor skills. Be careful when doing activities like driving or operating machinery.
Side Effects
Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole) may cause side effects in some patients. The most common Abilify Maintena side effects can include weight gain, restlessness or inability to sit still, injection site pain, and drowsiness. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and individuals may have differing reactions to the medication.
In some cases, Abilify Maintena may cause more serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention. These can include stroke, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, seizures, uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia), high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), trouble swallowing, and problems regulating body temperature. If you or someone you know is taking Abilify Maintena and experiences any severe side effects, seek medical help as soon as possible.
References:
- Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole) Highlights of Prescribing Information. Tokyo, JP: Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc; 2023.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 13246
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