Aripiprazole extended-release injectable suspension (Abilify Asimtufii®): Basic Information

This article was first published on May 12, 2024. It was last reviewed, updated, or edited on May 12, 2024.

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Aripiprazole extended-release injectable suspension (Abilify Asimtufii^®) is an atypical antipsychotic and long-acting injectable (LAI) formulation of aripiprazole.

Abilify Asimtufii^® also has aripiprazole monohydrate as an active ingredient like Abilify Maintena^®, but the the key difference is that Abilify Asimtufii^® injection is given once every 2 months while Abilify Maintena^® injection is given once a month.

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On this page, we will provide basic prescribing information about this medication. Links to other articles on this website with more advanced information and tips related to this medication and/or related topics are provided below—under Related Pages

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FDA-approved indications

1. Treatment of schizophrenia in adults

2. Maintenance monotherapy in the treatment of bipolar I disorder

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Mechanism of action/ Pharmacodynamics

Exact mechanism of action of aripiprazole in treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder is unknown. It may mediate its effect via partial agonist activity at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors and antagonist activity at 5-HT2A receptors.

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Side effects

The commonest side effects of Abilify Asimtufii^® (occurring in 5% or more of patients and at least twice the rate of placebo) were weight gain, akathisia, injection site pain, and sedation.

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Warnings and Precautions

1. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
2. Tardive dyskinesia
3. Metabolic changes (monitor for hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and weight gain)
4. Pathological gambling and other compulsive behaviors
5. Orthostatic hypotension and syncope
6. Leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis
7. Seizures
8. May cause cognitive and motor impairment: Use caution while operating machinery

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Boxed warnings

Increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.

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Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to aripiprazole, or to any excipients of Abilify Asimtufii^®.

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Recommended dose

1. Recommended starting and maintenance dose is 960 mg administered as a single I.M. injection once every 2 months in gluteal muscle (buttocks).

2. The dose can be reduced to 720 mg in patients with adverse reactions.

3. Known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers: Recommended starting and maintenance dose is 720 mg administered once every 2 months.

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Dosage forms and strengths

Available as extended-release injectable suspension in single-dose pre-filled syringe in two strengths: 720 mg/2.4 mL and 960 mg/3.2 mL

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Important! This page does not provide all the information needed to prescribe this medication. Please refer to the full Prescribing Information (see the link below) before prescribing this medication.

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Related Pages

LAI second-generation antipsychotics—General articles

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References

Abilify Asimtufii® Prescribing Information

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