ARIPIPRAZOLE Meaning and
Definition
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Aripiprazole is a noun that refers to a medication used primarily for treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. It belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. Aripiprazole works by acting as a partial dopamine agonist, meaning it attaches to dopamine receptors in the brain and regulates their activity. This helps to normalize levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which play a key role in regulating mood, thought processes, and behavior.
Aripiprazole is commonly prescribed to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions, and to alleviate episodes of mania or mixed episodes in bipolar disorder. It can also be used as an adjunct treatment for major depressive disorder when other antidepressant medications have proven ineffective. Aripiprazole is available in various forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and injections.
Like any medication, aripiprazole may have side effects, which can vary from person to person. Some common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, insomnia, and weight gain. More severe side effects, although rare, may include allergic reactions, movement disorders, and changes in blood sugar levels. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping aripiprazole, as they can provide personalized guidance regarding dosage and any potential interactions with other medications.
Etymology of ARIPIPRAZOLE
The word "aripiprazole" is a compound word with a complex etymology.
The first part, "ari", does not have a clear origin or meaning in this context. It is likely a unique prefix created for the specific drug name.
The second part, "piprazole", has its origins in the class of drugs called "dibenzazepine", which are known for their antipsychotic properties. The suffix "-zole" is often used in medicine to indicate a particular class of drugs. In this case, it signifies that aripiprazole belongs to the "piprazole" class of antipsychotic medications.
Overall, the etymology of the word "aripiprazole" is a combination of a unique prefix and a suffix that is commonly used in medicine to denote a class of drugs.
