Abilify Mycite

• Risk factors: Older adults with dementia-related psychosis

Older adults who also have dementia sometimes have some symptoms of schizophrenia, like hallucinations and delusions. This is called dementia-related psychosis, and it shouldn't be treated with Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole). If Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) is used for dementia-related psychosis, it can cause death. The cause of death is typically from heart problems, stroke, or infections. Let your provider know if you or your loved one has dementia before starting Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole).

• Risk factors: Children and young adults

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) hasn't been studied for safety and effectiveness in children. Children and young adults have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior when taking antidepressants. Let your provider know if you or your child's behavior get worse or develop suicidal thoughts, especially in the first few months of starting this medication or when the dose changes. Ask family members or caregivers to pay attention to any thought and behavior changes as well.

• Risk factors: Taking antipsychotic medications

Antipsychotic medications like Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause a rare but life-threatening reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Symptoms can include high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal pulse or blood pressure, fast heartbeat, sweating, and heart rhythm problems. Stop taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) and get emergency medical help if you experience any of those symptoms.

• Risk factors: Older adults | Female and 65 years or older | Taking high doses of antipsychotic medications | Taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) for a long time

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) might cause a type of movement problem that you can't control called tardive dyskinesia. This problem might be permanent, but sometimes it can go away after the medication is stopped. Although it can happen to anyone, the risk is higher in older adults, especially older females. The risk of tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it'll become permanent is also higher if you take this medication for a long period of time or if you take many antipsychotic medications at the same time. Let your provider know if you have movements that you can't control in your face, tongue, or other body parts while taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole).

• Risk factors: History of diabetes | History of high cholesterol | Obesity

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause high blood sugar levels. Although rare, sometimes high blood sugar levels can lead to high blood ketones, coma, or death. If you have diabetes or at risk of getting diabetes, your provider might have you monitor your blood sugar levels regularly while taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole). Let your provider know if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as frequent thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, or weakness.

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can also cause high cholesterol levels and weight gain, so these levels might be checked regularly throughout your treatment.

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) might cause people to develop intense urges that are hard to control. Let your provider know if you experience new urges or habits when taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole), such as gambling, sexual urges, shopping, eating or binge eating. If you start acting without thinking or having urges that you can't resist, your provider might adjust or stop your medication.

• Risk factors: Older adults | History of heart problems | Dehydration | Taking medications that lower blood pressure

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause sleepiness, loss of balance, and low blood pressure, especially upon standing. These effects can raise the risk of falling, which can cause injuries. Let your provider know if you are taking other medications that also affect your blood pressure and make it easier to fall. Since Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause sleepiness and drowsiness, don't drive or operate any machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

• Risk factors: People with low white blood cells | Taking medications that lower the white blood cell count

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can lower your white blood cell (WBC) count. When you have low WBC levels, your body has a harder time fighting off germs and this puts you at a higher risk for infections. You might need to get lab work done regularly to make sure your WBC count is healthy. If the levels are too low, your provider might stop your medication. Talk to your provider right away if you experience symptoms of an infection, such as fever, weakness, or sore throat, while taking this medication.