Cariprazine
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Atypical Antipsychotic
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Cariprazine
Summary
Cariprazine is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It can help manage symptoms like delusions, hallucinations, and mood swings. It may also be prescribed for acute manic or mixed episodes in bipolar I disorder.
Cariprazine works by modulating the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in mood regulation and cognition. It helps balance these chemicals, managing symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
The usual daily dosage of Cariprazine for adults starts at 1.5 mg. For schizophrenia, the dose may range from 1.5 mg to 6 mg per day, while for bipolar disorder it can range from 3 mg to 6 mg per day. It is taken once daily, with or without food.
Common side effects of Cariprazine include drowsiness, insomnia, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Significant adverse effects can include movement disorders like tremors or restlessness, weight gain, and an increased risk of metabolic issues. Rarely, it may cause severe conditions such as tardive dyskinesia or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Cariprazine should be used cautiously in people with a history of cardiovascular issues, seizures, or liver problems. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in younger patients. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use and it should be avoided in individuals with severe liver impairment.
Indications and Purpose
How does Cariprazine work?
Cariprazine works by modulating the activity of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. It acts as a partial agonist at dopamine D2 and D3 receptors, meaning it both activates and inhibits these receptors, depending on the brain's needs. This helps regulate mood, cognition, and psychotic symptoms in conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, stabilizing brain activity and reducing symptoms like hallucinations and mood swings.
Is Cariprazine effective?
Clinical trials have shown that Cariprazine is effective in treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Studies demonstrated significant improvements in symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and mood stability. Patients taking Cariprazine experienced better control over symptoms compared to those on placebo, with evidence supporting its effectiveness in both acute and maintenance phases of treatment.
What is Cariprazine?
Cariprazine is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by modulating the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in mood regulation and cognition. By balancing these chemicals, Cariprazine helps manage symptoms like delusions, hallucinations, and mood swings.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Cariprazine?
Antipsychotics should only be used long-term for people with serious mental illnesses who don't respond to other treatments. The lowest dose needed should be used for as short a time as possible. The doctor should regularly check if the medication is still needed. It can take weeks for side effects to appear because the levels of the medication in the body build up over time.
How do I dispose of Cariprazine?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Cariprazine?
Cariprazine can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions while using this medication. It’s important to take it exactly as prescribed, usually once a day. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose. Avoid alcohol while taking Cariprazine, as it may increase side effects.
How long does it take for Cariprazine to start working?
Cariprazine may take several weeks to show noticeable effects, especially in conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Some patients may begin to feel improvements within 1–2 weeks, but the full therapeutic benefit could take up to 4–6 weeks. It's important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and follow up with your doctor for adjustments if needed.
How should I store Cariprazine?
Cariprazine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom or places with high humidity. Always follow the storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
What is the usual dose of Cariprazine?
The usual starting dose for adults is often determined by the specific medicine in question. Typically, it is taken once or twice daily. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient's response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose varies, so it's important to follow specific guidelines for each medicine. For secondary uses, the dose might differ, and special populations like children or the elderly may require adjustments. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for dosing to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Cariprazine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Cariprazine is excreted in breast milk, but its effects on a nursing infant are not well-studied. Due to the potential risks, it is generally recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking Cariprazine. If the medication is necessary, a healthcare provider may suggest alternative feeding options or close monitoring of the infant for any adverse effects. Always consult a doctor before breastfeeding during treatment.
Can Cariprazine be taken safely while pregnant?
Cariprazine is classified as a Category C medication during pregnancy, meaning its safety is not well-established. Animal studies have shown potential risks, including developmental harm to the fetus. It should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks, and under close medical supervision. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using Cariprazine.
Can I take Cariprazine with other prescription drugs?
Cariprazine can interact with several prescription drugs. Co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ketoconazole) may increase Cariprazine levels, raising the risk of side effects. Concurrent use with other antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, or CNS depressants can increase sedation and the risk of respiratory depression. It may also interact with medications that affect dopamine, such as levodopa, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining Cariprazine with other medications.
Does Cariprazine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects, which are unwanted or harmful reactions to a medicine, can occur when taking any medication. For this medicine, common adverse effects might include nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and dry mouth. These effects can vary in how often they happen, but they are generally not severe. However, there are serious adverse effects that, although rare, need immediate medical attention. These might include severe allergic reactions, which can cause difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat, or signs of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider. Never stop taking a medicine without first consulting your doctor, as they can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment safely.
Does Cariprazine have any safety warnings?
This medicine, which is called atenolol, has several safety warnings. One major warning is that it should not be stopped suddenly, especially in patients with heart disease, which refers to conditions affecting the heart's function. Stopping suddenly can worsen chest pain or cause a heart attack. Symptoms to watch for include increased chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual tiredness. Another warning is that atenolol can cause low blood pressure, which is when the force of blood against artery walls is too low. This can lead to dizziness or fainting. It's important to monitor for signs like lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. Atenolol can also mask signs of low blood sugar, which is when blood sugar levels drop too low, in people with diabetes. Symptoms to monitor include sweating, hunger, and confusion. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Cariprazine addictive?
To determine if a medicine is addictive, we first need to know if it has habit-forming potential. If it does, this means the body can become dependent on it, which means needing the drug to feel normal. This can happen because the medicine changes how the brain works, making it hard to stop using it. Signs of addiction include using the medicine more often or in larger amounts than prescribed, feeling anxious or irritable without it, and neglecting responsibilities. To prevent addiction, always follow the doctor's instructions, never share your medicine, and talk to your doctor if you feel you need more of the medicine to get the same effect. If the medicine has no known potential for dependence or addiction, it is safe to say it is not addictive. Always consult a healthcare professional for advice specific to your situation.
Is Cariprazine safe for the elderly?
Cariprazine can be used in the elderly, but caution is needed due to potential risks like sedation, low blood pressure, movement disorders, and cardiovascular issues. It's important to use the lowest effective dose and monitor closely. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Cariprazine?
Most people tolerate this medicine well, and occasional alcoholic drinks should not affect the way this medicine works. There are no well-established interactions between this medicine and alcohol. Therefore, moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe while taking this medicine. However, it's always a good idea to be cautious and monitor how your body reacts. If you notice any unusual symptoms or feel unwell, it might be best to limit or avoid alcohol. As a general rule, sticking to the recommended guidelines for alcohol consumption, which is up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men, is advisable. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Cariprazine?
To determine if it's safe to exercise while taking a specific medicine, first check if the medicine causes symptoms that might limit your ability to exercise, like fatigue or dizziness. If the medicine typically affects exercise capacity, it might be necessary to adjust your routine. For example, you might need to avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain during exercise, take precautions and consult your doctor. However, if there's no specific information about the medicine affecting exercise, most people tolerate it well, and it should not limit your ability to exercise. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is it safe to stop Cariprazine?
To determine if it's safe to stop a medicine, first identify its purpose. If it's for managing a chronic condition like hypertension or diabetes, stopping it might lead to worsening symptoms or complications. For medicines providing symptomatic relief, stopping could result in the return of symptoms. If it's for a temporary condition like an infection, stopping early might not fully resolve the issue. Some medicines can cause withdrawal symptoms or rebound effects, where symptoms return stronger. Abruptly stopping certain medicines can be life-threatening, especially those affecting the heart or brain. Always consult a doctor before stopping any medicine to ensure it's safe and to discuss a proper discontinuation plan if needed.
What are the most common side effects of Cariprazine?
A side effect is an unwanted or unexpected symptom caused by a medicine. For this medicine, common side effects include nausea, which is feeling sick to your stomach, and headache, which is pain in your head. Other side effects might be dizziness, which is feeling lightheaded, and fatigue, which is feeling very tired. Some people also experience dry mouth, which is when your mouth feels unusually dry. These side effects can vary in how often they occur, but they are generally not experienced by everyone. It's important to remember that when you start a new medicine, you might notice new symptoms. These could be unrelated to the medicine, temporary, or due to another health issue. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medicine, as they can help you understand and manage side effects.
Who should avoid taking Cariprazine?
Cariprazine should be used cautiously in people with a history of cardiovascular issues, seizures, or liver problems. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly in younger patients. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use, and it should be avoided in individuals with severe liver impairment.
Forms / Brands
