Controlled release sterile injectable aripiprazole formulation and method

Abstract

A controlled release sterile freeze-dried aripiprazole formulation is provided which is formed of aripiprazole of a desired mean particle size and a vehicle therefor, which upon constitution with water and intramuscular injection releases aripiprazole over a period of at least about one week and up to about eight weeks. A method for preparing the controlled release freeze-dried aripiprazole formulation, and a method for treating schizophrenia employing the above formulation are also provided.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A controlled release sterile aripiprazole injectable formulation, comprising:
 (a) aripiprazole having a mean particle size of about 1 to 10 microns,   (b) a vehicle therefor, and   (c) water for injection,   wherein said formulation is a homogenous suspension and upon injection into a subject, said formulation releases aripiprazole over a period of at least one week.