From the Guidelines
Abilify (aripiprazole) typically takes about 2 weeks to reach steady state in the body. This is because the time to steady state is related to the drug's half-life, which for aripiprazole is approximately 75 hours (about 3 days) for most adults, as implied by its pharmacokinetic properties 1. The calculation of reaching steady state, which is generally considered to be about 5 half-lives, supports the notion that it takes roughly 2 weeks for the medication to stabilize in the bloodstream and exert its full therapeutic effects.
Key Points to Consider
- The half-life of aripiprazole is a critical factor in determining how long it takes to reach steady state.
- The medication's pharmacokinetics, including its metabolism and elimination, can influence the time to steady state, especially in patients with liver impairment or those taking interacting medications.
- Consistent daily dosing is essential to achieve and maintain therapeutic levels of the medication.
Given the information provided in the guideline evidence 1, while it does not directly address the pharmacokinetics of aripiprazole in detail, understanding the principles of drug half-life and steady state is crucial for managing patient expectations and optimizing treatment outcomes. It is essential to continue taking Abilify exactly as prescribed, even if the full therapeutic benefits are not immediately apparent, to ensure that the medication reaches its steady state and exerts its intended effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Steady-state concentrations are attained within 14 days of dosing for both active moieties. Dosage increases should generally not be made before 2 weeks, the time needed to achieve steady-state
Time to reach steady state:
- 14 days for aripiprazole to reach steady-state concentrations 2
- 2 weeks is the time needed to achieve steady-state, after which dosage increases can be made 2
From the Research
Pharmacokinetics of Aripiprazole
- Aripiprazole is well absorbed, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within three to five hours after administration 3
- The oral availability is 87% 3
- The mean elimination half-life is about 75 hours for aripiprazole and 94 hours for its active metabolite 3
Steady State
- To reach steady state, it typically takes 4-5 half-lives 3
- Based on the half-life of aripiprazole (75 hours), it can be estimated that steady state is reached in approximately 15-20 days (4-5 half-lives) 3