Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole) – Detailed Medicine Information

Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole Injection)

Also Known As / Brand Names

Abilify Maintena is a brand name for a long-acting injectable version of aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic. Other brand or related product names include:
  • Aripiprazole LAI
  • Abilify Asimtufii (longer-acting monthly formulation)
  • Generic aripiprazole extended-release injectable (available in select countries)
Abilify Maintena is manufactured by Otsuka and Lundbeck and is FDA-approved for psychiatric use.

Product Introduction

Abilify Maintena is an extended-release intramuscular injection administered once every month. It contains aripiprazole, which works by balancing dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain — two key chemicals linked to mood, behavior, and perception. This formulation is designed to provide consistent drug levels over time, reducing the likelihood of relapse in individuals diagnosed with chronic mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Unlike daily oral tablets, Abilify Maintena helps improve adherence to treatment by requiring only one dose per month, which is typically administered by a healthcare professional. It is especially beneficial for patients who struggle with taking daily medication due to lack of insight, memory problems, or unstable lifestyles.

Uses of Abilify Maintena

  • Treatment of schizophrenia in adults
  • Maintenance therapy for bipolar I disorder
  • Long-term management of psychotic symptoms
  • Prevention of relapse in patients stabilized on oral antipsychotics

It is important to note that patients usually start with oral aripiprazole before transitioning to the injectable form, ensuring they tolerate the medication well before starting long-acting treatment.

Benefits of Abilify Maintena

The key advantage of Abilify Maintena is enhanced medication adherence. For many individuals living with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, missing doses of oral medication can lead to relapse, hospitalization, or worsening of symptoms. Monthly injections help prevent these issues by ensuring consistent delivery of medication.

Abilify Maintena has been shown in clinical studies to significantly reduce the risk of relapse, improve overall quality of life, and support stable mood and thought patterns. It can also reduce the burden on caregivers and healthcare systems by decreasing emergency interventions and inpatient stays.

Side Effects of Abilify Maintena

As with any medication, side effects can occur. Some common and less common side effects include:

  • Injection site pain, redness or swelling
  • Weight gain
  • Restlessness or inability to sit still (akathisia)
  • Sleep disturbances such as insomnia
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Anxiety and agitation
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Muscle stiffness or tremors in some individuals

Most side effects are manageable and tend to improve over time. Patients should report any severe reactions, allergic symptoms, or unusual behavior changes to their healthcare provider immediately.

Safety Advice

Condition Advice
Pregnancy CAUTION – Use only if clearly needed. Limited human data is available. Consult your doctor before use.
Breastfeeding SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Trace amounts may pass into breast milk, but can be used if benefits outweigh risks.
Driving UNSAFE – May impair thinking or motor skills. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
Kidney SAFE – No dose adjustment is typically needed in patients with renal impairment. Safe in mild to moderate kidney disease.
Liver SAFE – No significant changes needed, but use caution in severe liver dysfunction. Regular monitoring is advised.

Important Reminder

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Abilify Maintena only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.