Is an atypical antipsychotic and antidepressant.

Uses:

   -    Clinical Depression
   -    Bipolar Disorder
   -    Schizophrenia

Approved by the FDA in 2002 for schizophrenia

For mixed episodes and acute manic of bipolar disorders in 2004.

Approved for use in combination with other drugs for major depressive disorder in 2007 

Is also known as Aripiprazole

Age:

Approved for ages 10 – 17
Approved for Adults

Mechanism of action

   -    Acts as a D2 partial agonist and 5-HT_1A receptor, and like other atypicals is an partial agonist of  5-HT_2A receptor
   -    Half life of 75 hours
   -    14 days are typical for the proper amount of concentration to be found within the plasma

Side Effects

   -    Headache
   -    Tiredness
   -    Weakness
   -    Dizziness
   -    Insomnia
   -    Shaking
   -    Blurred vision

Rarely seen are:

   -    Tardive dyskinesia
   -    Stroke
   -    Blood sugar changes
   -    Allergic reaction

Drug interactions

   -    Paroxetine
   -    Fluoxetine
   -    Carbamazepine

***   -   occasionally dosing may need adjustment with the above medications

   -    Alcohol