Aripiprazole is classified as an atypical antipsychotic medication that is primarily prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social functioning. Aripiprazole helps manage these symptoms by acting as a partial agonist at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors while antagonizing serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This unique mechanism of action helps balance neurotransmitter activity in the brain, reducing psychotic symptoms and improving overall cognitive function. Additionally, aripiprazole is known for its lower risk of causing metabolic side effects, such as weight gain and diabetes, compared to other atypical antipsychotics, making it a preferred choice for long-term management.

Besides schizophrenia, aripiprazole is widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, a condition characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. During manic episodes, individuals may experience elevated mood, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and decreased need for sleep. Aripiprazole helps stabilize mood by modulating dopamine and serotonin activity, effectively reducing the severity and frequency of manic episodes. It can also be used as an adjunct treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) in cases where standard antidepressants alone are insufficient. Furthermore, aripiprazole has applications in managing irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and in treating Tourette syndrome. Despite its benefits, it is essential for patients to use aripiprazole under medical supervision, as it may cause side effects such as restlessness, insomnia, nausea, or, in rare cases, extrapyramidal symptoms.