Understanding Aristada Aripiprazole Lauroxil: What is it and How Does it Work?
If you or someone you know is suffering from mental disorders such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, you may be familiar with aripiprazole lauroxil, which is commonly marketed under the trade name Aristada. Aristada is a long-acting injectable (LAI) form of medication designed to treat those who suffer from psychotic disorders.
But what is Aristada, and how does it work? In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Aristada Aripiprazole Lauroxil, the benefits, risks, and how it works.
What is Aristada Aripiprazole Lauroxil?
Aristada is a prescription medicine primarily used to treat adult schizophrenia. It is an extended-release injection of aripiprazole lauroxil administered monthly, and it stays in the patient’s body for several weeks. The medication is given as an injection in the doctor’s office and is gradually released into the bloodstream over several weeks. It belongs to the atypical antipsychotic class of drugs, which work on various neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin.
How does it work?
Aristada works by balancing the neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin. Dopamine and serotonin are vital substances for transmitting signals in the brain. They are responsible for many functions, including mood, emotion, and thinking. However, in many people with schizophrenia, there is an imbalance between neurotransmitters, causing symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and social isolation. The medication stabilizes the dopamine level in the brain, leading to a reduction in the symptoms of schizophrenia.
Benefits of Aristada Aripiprazole Lauroxil
One of the most significant advantages of Aristada is that it is a long-acting medication, meaning that the patient does not have to take medication every day. The medication takes only one injection per month, keeping the blood levels of the medication at a steady state. Aristada has been shown to be effective in the treatment of psychotic symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. Aristada also improves cognitive symptoms, depression, and anxiety and helps to prevent relapse.
Risks of Aristada Aripiprazole Lauroxil
Like all medications, Aristada has some risks associated with it. The most common side effects of Aristada include weight gain, dizziness, and extrapyramidal symptoms. Extrapyramidal symptoms are a movement disorder that includes symptoms like tremors, rigid muscles, and restlessness. They are more common in elderly patients.
Aristada may also cause tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by involuntary movement of the tongue, face, mouth, or jaw. The risk of tardive dyskinesia increases with long-term use.
Also, Aristada may cause metabolic changes, such as high blood sugar and high cholesterol, and may increase the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Conclusion
Aristada Aripiprazole Lauroxil is a medication designed to treat adult schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It is a long-acting injectable medication that is time-efficient and offers several advantages over other forms of medication. Aristada has been shown to be effective in alleviating symptoms associated with psychotic disorders. However, like all medications, Aristada has some risks associated with its use. It is imperative to consult with a medical professional before taking Aristada to evaluate the benefits and risks given your specific clinical needs.
