Patients who struggle with certain mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, major depression, mania or schizophrenia, may be able to control their symptoms by using a medication called aripiprazole. Aripiprazole is a type of atypical antipsychotic medication that can help control unusual mood and mental behaviors by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. Before beginning treatment with this medication, patients should discuss the side effects of aripiprazole with a medical professional.
Upset Stomach
The most common side effects associated with aripiprazole treatment are stomach-related. During clinical trials for this medication, more than 10 percent of adult patients reported experiencing nausea, vomiting or constipation while receiving treatment with aripiprazole, according to RxList.Certain people can also develop stomach discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, increased salivation or appetite or weight changes. If these side effects become bothersome, affected people should consult a doctor for additional guidance and care.
Limb or Joint Pain
Patients taking this medication can experience uncomfortable sensations of pain within their limbs or joints, PubMed Health warns. Limb pain can affect the arms and legs, making it difficult for patients to move these body regions normally. Persistent joint pain can also contribute to difficulty standing or walking in certain patients.
Dizziness or Headache
Episodes of dizziness or headache pain can arise as side effects of aripiprazole. Dizziness or lightheadeness can cause affected patients to appear unstable or unbalanced while standing or walking. Headache pain can be mild to severe, but typically subsides with continued use of this medication.
Mood Alterations
Unusual mood alteration can occur in patients taking aripiprazole. These mood changes can include abnormal restlessness or nervousness, Drugs.com explains. Such changes can affect the way in which patients interact with friends, family members and colleagues. Patients under the age of 24 who use antidepressant medications, such as aripiprazole, may also be at an increased risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, PubMed Health warns. Patients who experience any mood changes while taking aripiprazole should seek prompt care from a medical professional.
Tremors or Seizures
Unusual body tremors or movements, a side effect called extrapyramidal disorder, can affect patients taking this medication. During clinical trials, over 10 percent of pediatric patients taking aripiprazole developed extrapyramidal disorder. Side effects associated with this disorder, such as muscle shaking and stiffness or involuntary body movements, typically diminish with continued use of this medication.
Insomnia or Drowsiness
Treatment with this medication can make it difficult for certain patients to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night, a side effect called insomnia, the National Alliance on Mental Illness explains. Alternatively, certain patients can experience drowsiness or fatigue after taking a dose of aripiprazole.
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