Abilify (Aripiprazole)

What is Abilify? Abilify (aripiprazole) is part of a class of medications called atypical antipsychotics. Abilify is used to control the symptoms that accompany schizophrenia in adults and teens, for adults and teens with bipolar, or for treating depression by augmenting other medications. Abilify is also used to control outbursts, anger, and other emotional issues in children with autism. Abilify comes in tablet, liquid, or quick-dissolve tablet form and is usually taken once per day. It may take up to two weeks to feel the full effect of this medication, and it is important to continue taking Abilify even if feeling well.

Important Information Before Use:

Abilify will not cure schizophrenia or bipolar, but it will help control the behavior that accompanies these conditions.
Abilify is not recommended for use by older adults with dementia.
If you have or have ever had heart disease, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, stroke, or seizures you should talk to your doctor about these conditions before you take Abilify.
Tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family currently has or has ever had diabetes.
You should also mention any serious reactions you have had to other similar medications.
Tell your doctor if you have or have had any problems with addictive drugs, including street drugs and medication.
Abilify may interact with other medications or supplements, including antihistamines, antidepressants, antifungals, sleeping pills, HIV medications, high blood pressure medications, and more. If you are taking other prescription drugs or supplements, you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Abilify.

Important Information During Use:

If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking Abilify, you should talk to your doctor about alternative treatments for your condition. Abilify can cause problems in newborns if taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Abilify can make you extremely drowsy; using alcohol with Abilify can worsen this side effect.
Your surgeon or anesthesiologist needs to know that you are taking Abilify if you are having any type of surgery, including oral or dental surgery.
Abilify may cause an increase in blood sugar, particularly when you first start taking this medication.
People taking Abilify may overheat more easily and have trouble cooling down after activity.
Abilify overdose can be deadly, and symptoms include aggression, vomiting, confusion, seizures, irregular heartbeat, pneumonia, breathing difficulties, or problems with blood pressure.
If you experience serious or severe side effects from Abilify, you should call your doctor.
Avoid drinking grapefruit juice when taking this medication.

Abilify Side Effects

Serious:

Confusion
Chest pain
Irregular or fast heartbeat; slowed heartbeat
Difficulty swallowing or breathing, tightness in the throat or neck
Severe rash, itching, or hives
Seizures
Swelling of face, eyes, or extremities
Swollen tongue, odd tongue movements, or tongue that protrudes from the mouth
Muscle stiffness
Fever or sweating
Unusual, uncontrollable facial or body movements
Vision changes

Less Serious:

Drowsiness, dizziness, or tiredness
Feeling of nervousness or anxiety
Dry mouth
Increased appetite or weight gain
Restlessness or agitation
Stomach upset, heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation
Headache
Pain in the joints, arms, or legs

Withdrawing:
You can reduce Abilify withdrawal symptoms by slowly tapering off of this medication. Do not stop taking Abilify abruptly; see your doctor before reducing or discontinuing this medication.

Possible Symptoms of Abilify Withdrawal: