Studies conducted by drug manufacturers deem aripiprazole for depression as effective for some adults whose symptoms cannot be controlled by antidepressants alone. It is considered an add-on medicine in conjunction with antidepressant drugs to treat major depression. The studies showed patients using aripiprazole for depression improved after six weeks when compared to patients taking only antidepressants and placebos.
Aripiprazole for depression might also prevent relapse if taken regularly with antidepressants, according to a study that followed patients for 100 weeks. Researchers are unsure how the anti-psychotic drug works, but it might affect dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain. Neurotransmitters control how messages are sent and received in the brain. Major depression typically occurs when these substances, especially dopamine, become unbalanced.
The drug might stabilize the release of dopamine. It has also proven effective as a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorders that cause mania. In some patients, an injection provides immediate relief from manic episodes that need rapid control. Aripiprazole for depression comes in tablet and liquid forms.
This medication was first approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. Aripiprazole for depression is not approved in some areas for use in elderly patients suffering dementia or for children, teens, and young adults. It might increase suicidal thoughts in these populations, especially when the drug is introduced or the dosage is adjusted. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are usually advised to avoid the drug.
A long list of other medications might cause reactions with aripiprazole, with some increasing the level of the drug in the blood and others decreasing its availability. Other drugs, including those used to treat high blood pressure, might enhance the effects of aripiprazole. Any medication that causes drowsiness, including painkillers, sleeping pills, and antihistamines, might also enhance these effects. Patients using this drug should tell their doctors about any prescription medicine, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements they use.
People who suffer from major depression might feel sad most of the time and lack energy. They typically lose interest in activities they previously found enjoyable. The disorder is sometimes marked by feelings of hopelessness and worthless. Depression can also cause sleep disturbances, including excessive sleeping or insomnia.
