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What Is Aripiprazole?

Aripiprazole is a prescription atypical antipsychotic. Oral tablets are approved for schizophrenia, manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder, irritability associated with autistic disorder, and Tourette disorder. Approved ages and dose ranges differ by condition. Tablets are taken once daily with or without food.

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What Is Aripiprazole?

Aripiprazole is a prescription atypical antipsychotic. Oral tablets are approved for schizophrenia, manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder, irritability associated with autistic disorder, and Tourette disorder. Approved ages and dose ranges differ by condition. Tablets are taken once daily with or without food.

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How Does Aripiprazole Affect Dopamine and Serotonin?

The exact therapeutic mechanism of aripiprazole is not fully known. Its activity is thought to involve partial agonist effects at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors and antagonist effects at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. These receptor actions alter signaling involved in mood, thought, behavior, and movement.

Which Conditions Are Treated With Aripiprazole?

Aripiprazole tablets are approved for schizophrenia and acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. In adults, aripiprazole is also used with antidepressants for major depressive disorder. Pediatric indications include schizophrenia in adolescents, bipolar I manic or mixed episodes, irritability associated with autistic disorder, and Tourette disorder within labeled age ranges.

How Are Aripiprazole Tablets Dosed?

Dosing depends on the condition and age. Adults with schizophrenia commonly start at 10 mg to 15 mg once daily. Adult bipolar mania treatment commonly starts at 15 mg daily when used alone. Adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder starts at 2 mg to 5 mg daily. CYP2D6 status and interacting medicines can require dose changes.

Which Warnings Matter During Aripiprazole Treatment?

Aripiprazole carries boxed warnings about increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and suicidal thoughts or behavior linked to antidepressant treatment in younger patients. Other serious risks include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, metabolic changes, compulsive behaviors, low blood pressure, falls, low white blood cell counts, seizures, and impaired judgment or movement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aripiprazole

Is aripiprazole an atypical antipsychotic?

Yes. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic with activity at dopamine and serotonin receptors.

Is aripiprazole used with antidepressants?

Yes. In adults with major depressive disorder, aripiprazole is approved as adjunctive treatment with an antidepressant.

How often are aripiprazole tablets taken?

Oral aripiprazole tablets are taken once daily, with or without food. The dose depends on the treated condition.

Is aripiprazole approved for dementia-related psychosis?

No. Aripiprazole is not approved for dementia-related psychosis, and its boxed warning notes increased mortality in elderly patients with this condition.

References

Aripiprazole Injection. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a615048.html. Date Accessed September 14, 2026.

ARISTADA (aripiprazole lauroxil) Medication Guide. https://labeling.alkermes.com/medguide_aristada.pdf. Date Accessed September 14, 2026.

ARISTADA (aripiprazole lauroxil) Prescribing Information. https://labeling.alkermes.com/uspi_aristada.pdf. Date Accessed September 14, 2026.

ARISTADA INITIO (aripiprazole lauroxil) Prescribing Information. https://labeling.alkermes.com/uspi_aristadainitio.pdf. Date Accessed September 14, 2026.

DailyMed - ARISTADA (aripiprazole lauroxil) injection, suspension, extended release. https://www.dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=17a8d11b-73b0-4833-a0b4-cf1ef85edefb. Date Accessed September 14, 2026.