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.