Arpizol 2 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET

ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET, manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., is an antipsychotic medication.

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Aripiprazole (2mg)

• Uses: ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat various mental health conditions by stabilizing dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain. It is prescribed for:

  • Schizophrenia: A mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and impaired thinking and behavior. It helps restore chemical imbalances in the brain, improving thoughts, behavior, and quality of life.
  • Mania and Bipolar Disorder: Used to treat manic episodes and other mood symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, helping to calm mood and relax nerves. It can be combined with mood stabilizers for bipolar disorder.
  • Depression: Can be used to treat depression, often as an adjunctive therapy with other antidepressant medicines.
  • Irritability associated with Autism: Helps manage irritability linked with autism.
  • Tourette's Syndrome: Used to reduce the severity and frequency of tics in children over 6 years with Tourette's Syndrome.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET should be taken orally with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent medicine levels.
  • The dose and duration are determined by a doctor based on the patient's medical condition.
  • For schizophrenia in adolescents (13-17 years), the initial dose is typically 2 mg orally once a day, titrated to 5 mg, then 10 mg after a few days, with a target dose of 10 mg/day (maximum 30 mg/day).
  • It may take 4 to 6 weeks to observe the full effects on thoughts and mood. Do not stop the medication suddenly without consulting a doctor.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Akathisia (inability to stay still), anxiety, restlessness.
  • Headache, dizziness, sleepiness, fatigue.
  • Blurred vision, increased saliva production, dry mouth.
  • Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation.
  • Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping).
  • Weight gain, increased blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
  • Parkinsonism, tremors. Serious side effects can include seizures, uncontrolled movements (especially of the face, tongue, or other body parts), fever, stiff muscles, sweating, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Rare but serious side effects like prolonged and painful erection (priapism) and impulse control disorders have also been reported.

• Precautions:

  • Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is unsafe as it may increase drowsiness and other side effects.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not advised during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, and considered unsafe during breastfeeding as it may harm the baby. Consult a doctor.
  • Driving: May cause dizziness, sleepiness, or blurred vision; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
  • Diabetes: May increase blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood sugar is recommended for diabetic patients.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, a history of stroke or heart attack, or heart rhythm problems.
  • Elderly Patients: Use with caution in elderly patients (above 65 years) due to increased risk of adverse reactions like dizziness and orthostatic hypotension.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, including antifungal agents (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole), Metoclopramide, antihypertensives, and certain antidepressants, as interactions may occur.
  • Food Interactions: Avoid grapefruit juice as it may decrease the medicine's effectiveness. Avoid herbal medicines unless approved by a doctor.
  • Talk to your doctor if you experience sudden mood changes, unusual movements, or suicidal thoughts.

• Storage:

  • Store ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET in a sealed container at room temperature, ideally between 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F).
  • Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light. Avoid refrigerating.
  • Keep out of the reach of children.

What is ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET used for?

ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET, containing the active ingredient aripiprazole, is an antipsychotic medicine primarily used to treat various mental health conditions. These include schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes), and as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder when other antidepressants haven't been sufficient. It can also be prescribed for irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder and Tourette syndrome.

How does ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET work?

ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET is an atypical antipsychotic. It works by helping to balance the levels of certain chemical messengers in the brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating mood, behaviors, and thoughts. By modulating their activity, the medicine helps to reduce symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, and improves overall mood and behavior.

What is the usual dosage of ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET?

The dosage of ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition, age, and response to treatment. For adults with schizophrenia, the usual starting dose is often 10 to 15 mg once a day, with a maximum recommended dose of 30 mg per day. For children and adolescents (13-17 years) with schizophrenia, treatment may start at 2 mg once a day and gradually increase to a target of 10 mg once a day. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and not to adjust the dose without consultation.

What are the possible side effects of ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, indigestion, blurred vision, increased saliva production, restlessness (akathisia), anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, weight gain, and tremors. More serious side effects, though less common, can include high blood sugar (diabetes), low blood pressure (especially when standing up quickly), unusual urges (e.g., gambling, shopping, sexual urges, binge eating), seizures, prolonged or painful erections, severe allergic reactions, and a rare but serious condition called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (symptoms include high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, and irregular heartbeat). There is also a risk of increased suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in young people at the beginning of treatment or after dose changes. Report any concerning symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Is ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: It is generally advised to consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET may be considered unsafe during pregnancy. While there is limited human data, animal studies suggest a potential risk to the fetus, and untreated mental illness during pregnancy also carries risks. Babies exposed to aripiprazole during late pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, such as jitteriness, breathing problems, shaking, or feeding difficulties.

Breastfeeding: It is generally recommended to consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET. The medication passes into breast milk in small amounts, and there have been reports of breastfed babies experiencing increased sleepiness or feeding problems. Aripiprazole may also reduce milk supply. Breastfeeding is often not recommended for individuals taking this medication.

Can ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce its effectiveness. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription, non-prescription, herbal medications, and supplements you are taking. Key interactions include:

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Certain Antidepressants and Antifungals: Medications like fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine, ketoconazole, and fluconazole can increase aripiprazole levels in your body.
• Certain Seizure Medications: Drugs like carbamazepine, phenytoin, and rifampin can decrease aripiprazole levels, making it less effective.
• Blood Pressure Medications and Benzodiazepines: Taking ARPIZOL with these can worsen side effects like drowsiness and a drop in blood pressure.
• Other Medications: Interactions can also occur with antihistamines, certain medications for anxiety or sleep, Parkinson's disease, and muscle relaxants.

What precautions should be taken while taking ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET?

Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your progress and adjust the dose if needed. You should monitor for and report any new or worsening depression, unusual behavioral changes, or suicidal thoughts, especially at the start of treatment. Due to potential dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medication affects you. Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness or fainting. Be aware of unusual or compulsive urges, such as gambling, binge eating, compulsive shopping, or increased sexual urges, and report them to your doctor. Monitor your blood sugar and cholesterol levels regularly, particularly if you have diabetes or a family history of it. This medicine can affect your body's ability to cool down, so avoid overheating and stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or during heavy exercise. Do not stop taking ARPIZOL suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your symptoms.

What happens if a dose of ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss several doses, contact your doctor.

How should ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET be stored?

ARPIZOL 2 MG TABLET should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep the medicine in its original container and out of the reach of children. If you have the oral solution form, it can be used for up to 6 months after opening, but not past the expiration date on the label.