Medicine Information

Arolak

Name: Arolak
Brand: Arolak
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet10 mgAntipsychoticsATC: N05AX12

Generic Name

Aripiprazole

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

Loading images...

Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
arolak 10 mg tablet	৳ 10.04	৳ 100.40

Description

Overview of the medicine

Arolak 10 mg Tablet contains Aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is used to treat mental conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), and as an add-on treatment for depression.

Uses & Indications

Schizophrenia

Bipolar I Disorder (manic and mixed episodes), as monotherapy or adjunct to lithium or valproate

Adjunctive treatment for Major Depressive Disorder

Irritability associated with Autistic Disorder

Tourette's Disorder

Dosage

Adults

Schizophrenia: Initially 10-15 mg once daily, target dose 10-30 mg/day. Bipolar I Disorder: 15-30 mg once daily. Major Depressive Disorder (adjunct): 2-15 mg once daily.

Elderly

Lower starting doses and slower titration may be required, particularly for those with co-morbidities.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.

How to Take

Take orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow whole, do not crush or chew.

Mechanism of Action

Aripiprazole is thought to exert its therapeutic effects through a combination of partial agonism at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, and antagonism at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Clinical effects may be observed within 1-2 weeks, full effect may take several weeks.

Excretion

Excreted primarily in feces (approximately 55%) and urine (approximately 25%).

Half life

Aripiprazole: approximately 75 hours; main active metabolite (dehydroaripiprazole): approximately 94 hours.

Absorption

Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentrations typically occur within 3-5 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized by the liver, primarily by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to aripiprazole or any component of the formulation
Dementia-related psychosis in elderly patients (increased risk of death)

Drug Interactions

CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)

May cause additive CNS depression.

CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)

May increase aripiprazole levels; dosage adjustment may be needed.

CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, rifampicin)

May decrease aripiprazole levels; dosage adjustment may be needed.

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)

May increase aripiprazole levels; dosage adjustment may be needed.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms include somnolence, vomiting, tremor, and tachycardia. Management involves supportive care, maintaining airway, and monitoring vital signs. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential harm to the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets30 tablets

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by FDA and DGDA

Patent Status

Patent expired, generics available

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of aripiprazole for its approved indications. Ongoing research continues to explore new applications and optimize treatment strategies.

Lab Monitoring

Regular monitoring for metabolic changes (e.g., blood glucose, lipids, weight)
Monitor for signs of tardive dyskinesia
Monitor for symptoms of NMS

Doctor Notes

Emphasize the importance of patient adherence due to the chronic nature of the conditions treated.
Educate patients and caregivers about potential side effects, especially NMS and tardive dyskinesia.
Consider lowest effective dose to minimize side effects.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Report any unusual side effects or worsening symptoms to your doctor immediately.
Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Be careful when standing up quickly, as it may cause dizziness (orthostatic hypotension).

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Driving Precautions

May cause dizziness or drowsiness, impairing ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid such activities until you know how this medicine affects you.