Aripiprazole Dosing and Administration for Bipolar Disorder

Introduction to Aripiprazole Therapy

• The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends aripiprazole as a first-line option for acute mania and maintenance therapy 1

Key Considerations for Aripiprazole Use

• Aripiprazole has a favorable metabolic profile with low risk of prolactin elevation, QTc prolongation, and metabolic disturbances compared to other atypical antipsychotics 2
• Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) occurred in up to 28% of patients, but aripiprazole is less likely to cause EPS compared to typical antipsychotics 2

Monitoring and Maintenance

• Baseline assessment should include body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and fasting lipid panel 1
• Follow-up monitoring: BMI monthly for 3 months then quarterly; blood pressure, glucose, and lipids at 3 months then yearly 1