Name of the Procedure:

Injection, aripiprazole lauroxil (Aristada Initio), 1 mg
Common Name: Aristada Initio Injection
Technical/Medical Term: Aripiprazole Lauroxil Injection

Summary

Aristada Initio is an intramuscular injection of the drug aripiprazole lauroxil, used for the initial treatment of certain psychiatric conditions. This medication helps in managing symptoms by altering the activity of certain natural substances in the brain.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar Disorder

Goals/Outcomes:

• Rapid symptom control
• Stabilization of mood
• Reduction in the frequency and severity of psychotic episodes
• Improved daily functioning

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions Warranting the Procedure:

• Acute agitation or psychosis in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
• Patients requiring rapid symptom stabilization

Patient Criteria:

• Diagnosis of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
• Physician assessment deeming immediate intervention necessary

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Continue taking prescribed oral medications unless otherwise directed by a physician
• Inform the physician of any allergies or underlying health conditions
• No specific fasting or dietary restrictions

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Physical examination
• Review of medical history
• Possibly a complete blood count (CBC) and liver function tests

Procedure Description

1. Positioning: Patient will be asked to sit or lie down comfortably.
2. Preparation: The injection site (usually the deltoid or gluteal muscle) will be cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
3. Injection: A healthcare provider will use a sterile syringe to administer the aripiprazole lauroxil injection deep into the muscle.
4. Post-Injection: The site may be massaged gently to distribute the medication.

Tools/Equipment Used:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Antiseptic wipes
• Gloves

Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required

Duration

The procedure itself takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting, such as a doctor's office or mental health clinic.

Personnel

• Licensed Nurse
• Physician or Psychiatric Specialist

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Injection site pain or irritation
• Nausea
• Headache

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reaction
• Increased blood sugar levels
• Extrapyramidal symptoms (motor control symptoms)

Management of Complications:

• Monitor the patient post-injection
• Administer antihistamines or corticosteroids for allergic reactions
• Adjust dosage or switch medications if severe complications occur

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Rapid onset of symptom relief
• Reduced frequency of psychotic episodes
• Better overall psychiatric stability

Timeframe for Benefits: Patients often begin to notice improvements within a few days to a week.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor the injection site for redness or swelling
• Continue with regular psychiatric care and follow-up appointments
• Adhere to oral medication regimen if applicable

Recovery Time:

• Minimal to none; patients can usually resume normal activities shortly after the injection.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Oral antipsychotic medications
• Other long-acting injectable antipsychotics

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral Medications: Easier to adjust dose but may not be as effective for those with poor adherence.
• Other Injectable Antipsychotics: May have different side effect profiles or administration schedules.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort or pain at the injection site

After the Procedure:

• Possible mild soreness or swelling at the injection site for a day or two
• Most patients experience no significant disruption to their daily activities

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed
• Applying a cold pack to the injection site to reduce swelling and discomfort