What is Abilify (Aripiprazole) used for?

Abilify (Aripirazole) is an antipsychotic medication which is primarily prescribed to treat bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression. It has proven effective in alleviating symptoms commonly associated with these disorders, such as mood swings, aggression, anxiety, and hallucinations. For best results, it is commonly used in tandem with both other medication and behavioural therapy. The medication works by restoring balance to the levels of certain chemicals found in the brain, helping to reduce the symptoms of the condition being treated. Doctors have also successfully used this medication to prevent autistic children from self-harming.

How should I use Abilify (Aripiprazole)?

The usually starting dose of Abilify (Aripirazole) is 2mg to 5mg per day. Depending on your progress and response to the medicine your doctor may choose to increase your dose to 15mg per day. Courses of medication should last a maximum of 6 weeks under normal circumstances, however your course may be extended by your doctor if there is sufficient reason to and if the associated risks are considered low. Tablets may be taken either with food or on an empty stomach.

What are the side effects of Abilify (Aripiprazole)?

Inform your doctor of all side effects you notice while taking Abilify (Aripiprazole). If any worry you or persist, notify your doctor as soon as you can. Possible side effects include:

• Upset stomach
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Anxiousness
• Abnormal weakness
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Abnormal weight gain

Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following side effects which have the potential to be more serious:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Severe headaches
• Flu or cold symptoms
• Stiff muscles
• Numb sensations
• Faintness or drowsiness
• Severe weakness
• Mood changes
• Confusion
• Heart beat changes
• Mouth sores
• Loss of appetite
• Increased thirst
• Seizures or convulsions
• Jaundice
• Changes in your vision
• Changes in urination
• Abnormal dry skin
• Abnormal trouble balancing
• Abnormal trouble speaking

Please Note

Strictly use Abilify (Aripirazole) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient's health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Abilify (Aripirazole) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure you doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions. It is especially important to inform your doctor if you are epileptic, diabetic, or if you have dementia, trouble swallowing, low white blood cell count, any history of strokes, any past or present form of cancer, as well as if you have any conditions of the liver, kidney, or heart.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.