Aripiprazole Overview & Mechanism of Action Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic acting as a partial agonist at dopaminergic D2 and serotonergic 5-HT1A receptors, and an antagonist at 5-HT2A receptors. This unique mechanism stabilizes dopamine, limiting extrapyramidal side effects compared to older agents. It is FDA-approved for schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD) adjunct therapy, Tourette's syndrome, and autism-associated irritability.

Critical Boxed Warnings

1. Suicidality: There is an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults (up to 24 years of age) when aripiprazole is used as an antidepressant.
2. Dementia-Related Psychosis: Antipsychotics are not approved for treati ...