Atypical antipsychotic
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Aripiprazole is a medicine that works by helping to balance certain natural chemicals in the brain (dopamine and serotonin), which helps improve your mood, thinking, and behaviour.
Binds to dopamine D2 receptors as a partial agonist, modulating dopaminergic neurotransmission in mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways while also antagonizing serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, thereby reducing psychotic symptoms and stabilizing mood.
Mental illness (schizophrenia), bipolar disorder (mood swings between extreme highs and lows), depression (when added to other antidepressant medicines), irritability linked to autism in children
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for the one you missed.
This is a prescription-only medicine, so do not buy it from roadside sellers or take it because someone recommended it; only use it as prescribed by a qualified doctor. Do not stop taking it suddenly on your own, even if you feel better, as this can cause your symptoms to return. Be careful when driving or operating machines, as this medicine can make you drowsy.
Avoid drinking alcohol while on this medicine as it can make you very drowsy and dizzy. Tell your doctor if you are taking ketoconazole (antifungal) or medicines for TB like rifampicin, as these can affect how aripiprazole works. Also mention if you are taking any other medicines for mental health or depression.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Aripiprazole with your other drugs?
Arciplazole is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing it near windows or in hot rooms. Keep the medicine in its original container with the lid tightly closed, and always keep it out of the reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.