Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication [1]. It is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and irritability associated with autistic disorder [1][2].
How does aripiprazole work?
Aripiprazole functions as a dopamine-D2 partial agonist and a serotonin 5-HT1A partial agonist, while also acting as a serotonin 5-HT2A antagonist [3]. This mechanism of action is thought to help regulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms of psychosis and mood disorders [3].
What other drugs are in the aripiprazole class?
While aripiprazole is a specific drug, the class of medications it belongs to is known as atypical antipsychotics (also called second-generation antipsychotics) [4]. Other drugs in this class include risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, ziprasidone, and lurasidone, among others [4]. These medications share similar mechanisms of action and are used to treat comparable conditions.
When does the aripiprazole patent expire?
The patents for aripiprazole, originally marketed as Abilify, have largely expired, allowing for the introduction of generic versions [5]. For specific patent expiration dates and exclusivity periods, resources like DrugPatentWatch.com can provide detailed information [5].
What are the side effects of aripiprazole?
Common side effects associated with aripiprazole can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, and restlessness [1]. Less common but more serious side effects may include involuntary muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia), metabolic changes (weight gain, high blood sugar, high cholesterol), and an increased risk of stroke in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [1].
Can generic aripiprazole be used?
Yes, generic versions of aripiprazole are available [5]. The availability of generics means that patients may have access to more affordable treatment options.
How does aripiprazole compare to other atypical antipsychotics?
Aripiprazole's unique partial agonism at dopamine D2 receptors differentiates it from some other atypical antipsychotics. This mechanism is believed by some to potentially lead to a lower risk of certain side effects, such as hyperprolactinemia or significant weight gain, compared to some other drugs in its class, though individual responses can vary [3][6]. Comparative efficacy and tolerability studies are ongoing and important for treatment selection.
Who makes aripiprazole?
The original branded version of aripiprazole, Abilify, was developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Bristol-Myers Squibb [7]. Following patent expiries, numerous pharmaceutical companies now manufacture and distribute generic aripiprazole [5].
Sources:
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/aripiprazole/
[2] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3175481/
[4] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schizophrenia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354669
[5] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[6] https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/aripiprazoles-efficacy-and-tolerability-profile
[7] https://www.drugbank.ca/drugs/DB00421