Psychiatria pre prax 2/2019

Aripiprazole and Cariprazine: Similarities and Differences among Patrial Agonists

Aripiprazole and cariprazine as a dopamine receptor partial agonists appear similar at first sight. Although the basic mechanisms of action are comparable, the agents differ in terms of their indications, pharmacodynamic profiles, pharmacokinetics, dosing, drug interactions, tolerability, and other features related to effective usage. Careful consideration of these factors can increase the likelihood of successful treatment. Aripiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic agent, exhibits good efficacy on the positive symptoms of schizophrenia and a relatively positive adverse effect profile. However, it is not able to cope with the negative symptoms of schizophrenia sufficiently. Cariprazine as a novel antipsychotic agent, besides the efficacy in the treatment of positive symptoms, is effective against negative symptoms.

Keywords: partial agonists, aripiprazole, cariprazine, D2/D3 receptors, schizophrenia