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Injection, aripiprazole, extended release, 1 mg

HCPCS code

Name of the Procedure:

Injection, aripiprazole, extended release, 1 mg (J0401)

Common name(s): Abilify Maintena injection, Aripiprazole extended-release injection

Summary

Aripiprazole extended-release injection is a long-acting antipsychotic medication administered via injection. It is designed to release the active drug gradually over time, offering patients with psychiatric conditions a more consistent and manageable treatment method compared to daily oral medications.

Purpose

Aripiprazole extended-release injection is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder.

  • Goals:
    • Stabilize mood
    • Reduce symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions
    • Improve overall functioning and quality of life.

Indications

  • Chronic schizophrenia
  • Maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder
  • Patients who have difficulty adhering to daily medications

Patient Criteria:

  • Diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder
  • History of non-adherence to oral medication
  • Requires long-term antipsychotic medication

Preparation

  • Pre-procedure instructions:
    • Inform the patient about the procedure and potential side effects
    • Review current medications
    • May require baseline lab tests (e.g., liver function, blood glucose)
  • Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:
    • Psychiatric evaluation
    • Review of medical history

Procedure Description

  1. Step-by-Step Process:

    • The patient usually lies down or sits in a comfortable position.
    • The injection site (buttocks or deltoid muscle) is cleaned with an antiseptic.
    • A healthcare provider administers a dose of aripiprazole extended-release via intramuscular injection.
    • Post-injection site monitored briefly for any immediate reaction.
  2. Tools and Equipment:

    • Syringe and needle
    • Antiseptic wipes
  3. Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required

Duration

The injection process usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is performed in an outpatient clinic or healthcare provider’s office.

Personnel

  • Nurse or physician to administer injection
  • Physician to supervise the overall treatment plan

Risks and Complications

  • Common Risks:

    • Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
    • Weight gain
    • Drowsiness
    • Gastrointestinal upset
  • Rare Complications:

    • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
    • Tardive dyskinesia
    • Severe allergic reaction

Management: Monitoring and symptomatic treatment for side effects; Immediate medical attention for severe reactions.

Benefits

  • Expected Benefits:

    • Improved psychiatric symptoms stability
    • Reduced relapse rates
    • Better adherence to treatment
  • Timeline: Symptom improvement can be noticed within a few weeks, with continuous benefits over the long-term course of treatment.

Recovery

  • Post-procedure care:

    • Monitor injection site for any severe reactions
    • Follow-up appointments for monitoring efficacy and side effects
  • Recovery Time: Usually minimal; normal activities can be resumed almost immediately.

  • Restrictions: None specific, but the patient should report any unusual symptoms or side effects.

Alternatives

  • Other Treatment Options:
    • Oral antipsychotic medications
    • Other injectable antipsychotics
    • Psychotherapy and counseling

Pros and Cons:

  • Oral Medications: Greater flexibility, but adherence may be challenging.
  • Other Injectables: Different side effect profiles, varying durations of action.

Patient Experience

  • During the Procedure: Mild discomfort at the injection site.
  • After the Procedure: Possible mild soreness or redness at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly. Some patients may experience mild side effects as their body adjusts. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.

Comfort measures such as ensuring the patient is calm and relaxed before the injection can help reduce anxiety and discomfort.

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