Name of the Procedure:

Injection, aripiprazole lauroxil (commonly known as Aristada)

Summary

The Injection of aripiprazole lauroxil is a medical procedure where a healthcare professional injects a medication called Aristada into the muscle. This medication is used to treat certain mental health conditions and helps stabilize mood and behavior.

Purpose

Aristada is used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia. The primary goal of this procedure is to help control and maintain normal brain function, stabilize mood swings, and improve the patient's overall functioning and quality of life.

Indications

• Schizophrenia
• Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia who require long-term antipsychotic treatment
• Patients who have difficulty adhering to a daily oral medication regimen

Preparation

• No fasting is generally required.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any current medications, allergies, or medical history.
• Pre-procedure assessment such as a physical exam or blood tests may be conducted to ensure appropriateness and safety.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, typically sitting or lying down.
2. The healthcare provider cleans the injection site with an antiseptic solution.
3. A dose of aripiprazole lauroxil (Aristada) is drawn into a syringe.
4. The medication is injected into a large muscle, usually the deltoid (shoulder) or gluteal (buttock) muscle.
5. The area is covered with a bandage as needed.
6. The patient will be monitored briefly post-injection for any immediate reactions.

Duration

The injection procedure typically takes about 5-10 minutes.

Setting

This procedure can be performed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, or doctors' offices.

Personnel

• Nurse or medical assistant (to prepare and administer the injection)
• Physician or psychiatrist (to evaluate patient suitability and provide oversight)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Localized pain or swelling at the injection site, dizziness, drowsiness
• Rare: Allergic reaction, unusual muscle movements, changes in blood sugar, or cholesterol levels
• Management: Monitoring for side effects, symptomatic treatment as necessary, and follow-ups

Benefits

• Effective stabilization of symptoms of schizophrenia
• Improved adherence to medication regimen
• Reduction in frequency of severe episodes of psychosis
• Benefits can typically be observed within a few weeks after the injection

Recovery

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the injection.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress and manage any side effects.

Alternatives

• Oral antipsychotic medications: Pros – easier to adjust dosage; Cons – daily adherence required.
• Other long-acting injectable antipsychotics: Pros – similar benefits; Cons – may differ in dosage schedule and side effects.
• Non-pharmacologic therapies (e.g., psychotherapy): Pros – no medication side effects; Cons – may not be sufficient alone for managing severe symptoms.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a brief sting or slight discomfort at the injection site.
• Post-injection, most patients experience minimal discomfort.
• Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended by a healthcare provider.
• Patients should communicate any significant discomfort or side effects to their healthcare provider.