Some days you feel incredibly happy, excited, and full of energy... But other days you feel so down that you can't do anything, and you feel like you're bored with the world... We call this sudden emotional swing 'mood swings'. You've probably experienced this too. This can be a major symptom of a mental illness called bipolar. Today, in this article, we're going to talk about Bipolar I Disorder and the drug Vraylar that's used to treat it.
What exactly is Bipolar I?
Simply put, bipolar is a condition that causes extreme changes in your mood, energy, and activity levels. It is characterized by two main behavioral patterns.
1. Manic Episode: During this time, you may feel extremely happy, excited, and energetic. You may experience insomnia, rapid speech, working non-stop, and making risky decisions.
2. Depressive Episode: During this time, you feel extremely sad, depressed, and have no interest in anything. You are always tired, have no appetite , and don't feel like doing things you used to enjoy.
A person with bipolar I must have experienced at least one manic episode. Sometimes, mixed episodes occur, in which both manic and depressive symptoms occur together. Although there is no cure for this condition, with the right medications and treatment, it is possible to control the symptoms and live a normal life .
Vraylar is a medication used to treat all three of these conditions (mania, depression, and mixed). Its active ingredient is cariprazine. It belongs to a class of drugs called second-generation antipsychotics. This class of drugs is better than older drugs because they are less likely to cause movement-related side effects (extrapyramidal symptoms) such as tremors and restlessness.
Although it is not yet fully understood how this drug works, we do know that it balances the activity of two chemicals in the brain called serotonin and dopamine . These two chemicals are the ones that mainly help control our mood.
How do you use this medicine?
Vraylar comes in capsules. You can take it once a day, with or without food. But the most important thing is to take it exactly as your doctor prescribes, in the right dose, at the right time. Your doctor may change the dose depending on your symptoms.
Important: Never stop taking your medication or increase or decrease the dosage without first consulting your doctor.
The table below shows how a doctor usually prescribes this medication.
| Episode Type | Usual starting dose | The maximum dose that the doctor can change |
|---|---|---|
| Manic or Mixed Episodes | 1.5mg on the first day, can be increased to 3mg from the second day. | 6mg per day |
| Depressive Episodes | 1.5mg on the first day. | After 15 days, the dose can be increased to 3mg per day if necessary. |
How long does it take for the medicine to work?
This is a question that many people ask. Vraylar does not work immediately. It gradually starts to affect your body. So it can take a few weeks to see results. The most important thing is to continue taking the medicine without missing a day and for as long as your doctor tells you to. If you forget to take your medicine, you can use a pillbox or set a reminder on your phone.
Something to be especially careful about!
When starting medication for any mental illness, especially in the first few months and when changing the dosage, some people may experience mood changes. There is a risk of suicidal thoughts or actions . Don't be afraid of this, but you should be very careful.
If you or someone you know has thoughts of harming themselves, go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ETU) without delay. Or call your doctor immediately.
Keep an eye out for the following features:
- New or increased thoughts of suicide.
- Attempting suicide.
- New or increased anxiety , depression, or other unusual changes in behavior.
What to do if side effects occur?
Like all medications, Vraylar can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them. Even if they do, they can often be managed. Below are some of the most common side effects and what you can do about them.
| Side Effect | Things you can do and what you need to know |
|---|---|
| Uncontrollable movements (extrapyramidal symptoms) - e.g. tremors, rigidity | These can be very bothersome. If you experience these symptoms , tell your doctor right away . He or she may be able to change the dosage or give you a different medicine. |
| Restlessness (Akathisia) | This is the same as what was said above. Talk to the doctor. He will provide a solution to this. |
| Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting | Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Eat light foods like crackers and bread. Avoid oily, spicy foods. If your symptoms don't improve, tell your doctor. |
| Drowsiness | Avoid driving or operating machinery that requires alertness until you know exactly how the medication affects you. |
Because Vraylar stays in the body for a long time, some side effects may not appear right away, but may appear several weeks later. So be aware of any new symptoms.
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, absolutely. Other medications you are taking can affect the way Vraylar works. Vraylar can also change the way other medications work. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including medications for other conditions, over-the-counter pain relievers, vitamins, and even Ayurvedic medicines). He or she can prescribe the medication that is best for you.
Take-Home Message
- Bipolar I is a condition that can be well controlled with treatment. Vraylar is an effective medication used for it.
- Starting, changing the dosage, and stopping this medication should only be done on the advice of your doctor.
- It can take several weeks to see the full effects of the medication, so it is very important to continue using it without missing a day.
- Be very vigilant for any mental changes, such as suicidal thoughts, during the initial stages of treatment. If you experience any of these, seek immediate medical advice or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ETU).
- Don't be afraid of any side effects that may occur, but talk openly with your doctor about it. He will provide you with the best solution.
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