Abilify Asimtufii (Aripiprazole) for Depression

Overview
Abilify Asimtufii is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and as a maintenance monotherapy (single-drug treatment) for bipolar 1 disorder in adults. This medication is an extended-release injectable form of aripiprazole, designed for long-term management of these conditions. Abilify Asimtufii is also known by its drug name, aripiprazole.

Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic that works by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, which helps manage symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions in schizophrenia, as well as mood swings in bipolar disorder.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Abilify Asimtufii is administered as an intramuscular injection into the gluteal (buttocks) muscle once every two months by a health care professional. Before starting Abilify Asimtufii, a person must establish tolerability with oral Aripiprazole. This medication should only be administered as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Abilify Asimtufii include increased weight, akathisia (restlessness), injection site pain, and sedation.

Rare but serious side effects may include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a life-threatening reaction with symptoms like high fever and muscle stiffness); tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements, especially in the face); and metabolic changes such as hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), and significant weight gain.

Other serious risks include orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing); blood disorders such as leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis; cognitive and motor impairment; pathological gambling and other compulsive behaviors; seizures; and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in young adults and adolescents.

Elderly adults taking Abilify Asimtufii for dementia-related psychosis face an increased risk of cerebrovascular adverse reactions, such as stroke and transient ischemic attack, including fatalities. Therefore, those taking the drug for other conditions should also be monitored closely for serious side effects.

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Label: Abilify Asimtufii — Aripiprazole Injection, Suspension, Extended Release — DailyMed

Aripiprazole Injection — MedlinePlus