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Aripiprazole prescribing patterns and side effects in elderly psychiatric inpatients
Kim C Coley1, Tina M Scipio, Christine Ruby
1University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA. coley@pitt.edu
Journal of Psychiatric Practice
|April 3, 2009
Summary
Aripiprazole (brand name Abilify) was found to be well-tolerated in elderly inpatients. The most common side effect observed was agitation/activation, with typical doses ranging from 5-10 mg daily.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Clinical Pharmacy
Background:
- Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used for various psychiatric conditions.
- Elderly patients may have unique responses to medications due to physiological changes.
- Understanding dosing and safety profiles in this population is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the dosing patterns of aripiprazole in elderly inpatients.
- To evaluate the safety and side effect profile of aripiprazole in this demographic.
- To assess the continuation of aripiprazole therapy post-discharge.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 52 elderly inpatients treated with aripiprazole over three years.
- Examination of medical records for dosing, titration, and documented side effects.
- Review of treatment continuation after hospital discharge.
Main Results:
- Common diagnoses included schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder (29%), bipolar disorder (25%), and major depressive disorder (23%).
- Median starting dose was 5 mg/day, with a median maximum dose of 10 mg/day.
- 17% of patients experienced side effects, most commonly agitation/activation (8%). Aripiprazole was continued in 54% of patients post-discharge.
Conclusions:
- Aripiprazole demonstrated good tolerability in elderly inpatients.
- Agitation/activation was the most frequent side effect identified.
- Appropriate dosing and monitoring are key for safe aripiprazole use in older adults.
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