cariprazine (Vraylar)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antipsychotic medication like cariprazine (Vraylar) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is an antipsychotic?

Antipsychotics are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, like hearing and seeing things that other people do not, feeling paranoid, or having delusions.

How does an antipsychotic work?

Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine in the brain, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic symptoms.

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FAQs about cariprazine (Vraylar)

What is cariprazine (Vraylar) used for?

Cariprazine is an atypical antipsychotic that's used to treat schizophrenia, depression, manic or mixed episodes of bipolar disorder, and depression in people with bipolar disorder.

How long does it take for cariprazine (Vraylar) to take effect?

How long cariprazine takes to work depends on factors such as your dosage, the severity of your condition, and how you respond to treatment. It may take a few weeks to months for you to see a clear improvement in your symptoms. To start, your provider may put you on a low dosage and slowly increase it. If you have questions about your dosage and how well cariprazine is working for you, talk with your provider.

Do cariprazine (Vraylar) side effects go away?

Some side effects of cariprazine may go away over time, while others might not. Cariprazine has some common mild side effects such as nausea, restlessness, headache, sleepiness, and upset stomach, which may go away after a few days or weeks of taking the medication. Other side effects may be more serious and last a long time. These include increased blood sugar, high cholesterol or triglycerides, movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia, akathisia, and more. If you experience side effects of cariprazine that don't go away and become bothersome, call your provider. They can discuss your options with you and help you decide if you need to stop taking cariprazine.

Does cariprazine (Vraylar) cause weight gain or loss?

Yes, weight gain is a common side effect seen in people taking cariprazine. If you experience weight gain with cariprazine, talk to your provider about it. They can suggest ways for you to maintain a healthy weight while taking cariprazine.

Is cariprazine (Vraylar) a controlled substance?

No, cariprazine is not a controlled substance, since it does not lead to addiction. If you have further questions, speak with your provider about the side effects of cariprazine.

How long does cariprazine (Vraylar) stay in your system?

Cariprazine has a long half-life—around one week. This means it takes about a week for half the drug to leave your body. Even so, cariprazine may stay in your body for 8 weeks or longer depending on how well your liver and kidneys function. If you have questions about how long cariprazine is likely to stay in your body, talk to your pharmacist or provider.

Does cariprazine (Vraylar) cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of cariprazine. Until you're familiar with how cariprazine affects you, do not operate machinery or perform tasks that require you to be alert. If drowsiness becomes bothersome and starts interfering with your daily life, your provider may have suggestions on how to manage this side effect, such as taking the medication at night. Note: Some people may experience insomnia (trouble sleeping) while taking cariprazine.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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