Warning

Abilify, or generic Aripiprazole, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression when used in combination with other medications. While effective for many, it carries several potential risks and side effects:

• Metabolic Changes: It can lead to weight gain, elevated blood sugar levels, and increased cholesterol levels, potentially increasing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular problems.
• Movement Disorders: Some individuals may experience involuntary movements such as tremors, muscle stiffness, or restlessness (akathisia).
• Neurological Effects: It can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and headaches. In rare cases, it may increase the risk of seizures.
• Psychiatric Effects: It may worsen symptoms of depression or lead to suicidal thoughts in some individuals, especially when starting or changing the dosage.
• Other Side Effects: These can include nausea, constipation, blurred vision, and difficulty sleeping.
• Interaction Risks: Aripiprazole can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting or adjusting medication, as individual responses can vary significantly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Abilify, or generic Aripiprazole, is prescribed for several psychiatric conditions, primarily:

• Schizophrenia: Aripiprazole helps manage symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and emotional withdrawal.
• Bipolar Disorder: It is used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, helping to stabilize mood swings, reduce agitation, and control symptoms of depression.
• Major Depressive Disorder (as an adjunct): Aripiprazole is sometimes prescribed in combination with antidepressants to enhance their effectiveness in treating depressive symptoms that haven’t responded adequately to other treatments.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder: It may be used to manage irritability associated with autism in children and adolescents.
• Tourette’s Disorder: Aripiprazole can help reduce symptoms such as motor and vocal tics.

The medication works by adjusting the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which play key roles in regulating mood, behavior, and perception. Treatment with Aripiprazole is tailored to each individual’s symptoms and response to the medication, often requiring careful monitoring and adjustment under medical supervision.

How should this medicine be used?

Abilify (generic name Aripiprazole) should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines on its usage:

• Dosage: The dosage of Aripiprazole varies depending on the condition being treated, the individual’s response to the medication, and other factors. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Administration: Aripiprazole is typically taken orally in the form of tablets or orally disintegrating tablets. It can be taken with or without food.
• Consistency: Take Aripiprazole consistently at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in your body.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage adjustments or changes.
• Do Not Stop Abruptly: Do not stop taking Aripiprazole suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of symptoms.
• Monitoring: Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and any potential side effects.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Storage: Store Aripiprazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

It’s essential to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help adjust your treatment plan as needed to optimize effectiveness and minimize potential side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

• Anxiety Disorders: Aripiprazole may be used in combination with other medications to help manage symptoms of anxiety disorders.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): It can sometimes be used to augment treatment for OCD symptoms that are not adequately controlled by other medications.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Aripiprazole might be used to alleviate symptoms such as irritability or mood disturbances in PTSD.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Abilify (Aripiprazole), it’s important to follow several special precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment:

• Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Antidepressants, including Aripiprazole, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults under 24 years old. Close monitoring by healthcare providers is essential, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): This is a rare but potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic medications like Aripiprazole. Symptoms include high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and changes in mental status. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Aripiprazole may cause movement disorders such as tremors, muscle stiffness, restlessness (akathisia), and involuntary movements (tardive dyskinesia). Report any unusual movements or changes in motor function to your healthcare provider.
• Metabolic Changes: Aripiprazole can lead to weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and changes in cholesterol levels. Regular monitoring of weight, blood glucose, and lipids is recommended, especially for individuals at risk for metabolic disorders.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease or those at risk should be monitored closely due to potential adverse effects on heart function.
• Elderly Patients: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic medications like Aripiprazole are at increased risk of death. Aripiprazole is not approved for use in these patients.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aripiprazole should be used cautiously during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, as the effects on the fetus or nursing infant are not well established.
• Alcohol and Other Substances: Limit alcohol intake while taking Aripiprazole, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Aripiprazole.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially diabetes, seizures, or conditions affecting the heart, liver, or kidneys. Aripiprazole dosage adjustments may be necessary in these cases.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of your condition, medication effectiveness, and any potential side effects.

Following these precautions helps ensure that Aripiprazole is used safely and effectively to manage psychiatric conditions under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Always discuss any concerns or changes in symptoms with your healthcare team promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Aripiprazole. However, maintaining a healthy diet and monitoring weight regularly is advisable due to potential metabolic effects of the medication, such as weight gain and changes in blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as You Remember: If it is not close to your next scheduled dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• Skip the Missed Dose If Close to Next Dose: If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Notify Your Healthcare Provider: If you frequently forget doses or have concerns about missed doses, inform your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing missed doses and may adjust your dosing schedule if needed.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Abilify (Aripiprazole) can cause a variety of side effects, ranging from mild to potentially severe. It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are relatively common when starting Aripiprazole but often improve over time.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches, which can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain.
• Dizziness: Aripiprazole can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Drowsiness: This medication may cause drowsiness or fatigue, affecting daily activities.
• Insomnia: On the other hand, some people may experience difficulty sleeping.
• Restlessness (akathisia): Aripiprazole can sometimes cause a feeling of restlessness or an inability to sit still.
• Extrapyramidal symptoms: These include tremors, muscle stiffness, and involuntary movements, particularly at higher doses.
• Weight gain: Aripiprazole can lead to weight gain, which may be a concern for some individuals.
• Increased blood sugar levels: This medication can sometimes cause increases in blood sugar levels, which may be important for individuals with diabetes or those at risk.
• Increased cholesterol levels: Aripiprazole may also lead to elevated cholesterol levels.

Less common but potentially serious side effects include:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): This is a rare but serious reaction characterized by fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and other symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
• Tardive dyskinesia: This condition involves involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or other parts of the body and can occur with long-term use of antipsychotic medications.
• Seizures: Although uncommon, some individuals may experience seizures while taking Aripiprazole.
• Low white blood cell count: In rare cases, Aripiprazole may affect the production of white blood cells, which can weaken the immune system.
• Orthostatic hypotension: This condition involves a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting.
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: Particularly in young adults, Aripiprazole and other antipsychotic medications may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider. They can help monitor your symptoms, adjust your dosage if needed, or recommend strategies to manage side effects effectively.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Keep Abilify in its original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Abilify tablets according to local guidelines and regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion by pets or children.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Contact: In case of overdose or emergency, call emergency services (911 in the US) or a poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, confusion, fainting, seizures, or severe dizziness.
• Immediate Medical Attention: Provide as much information as possible about the medication and dosage taken. Do not attempt to treat an overdose without professional medical guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring helps ensure the medication is working effectively and allows for adjustments if needed.
• Lab Tests: Your doctor may perform periodic lab tests (such as blood tests) to monitor for any potential side effects or changes in health parameters while taking Aripiprazole.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Aripiprazole, as it can increase the risk of certain side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness.
• Medical Alerts: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Aripiprazole, including dentists and emergency medical personnel. This helps them make informed decisions about your treatment.
• Patient Education: Educate yourself about the potential side effects of Aripiprazole and report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as Aripiprazole can interact with certain substances.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits of taking Aripiprazole if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Aripiprazole may pass into breast milk and could have adverse effects on the nursing infant.

By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can help ensure safe and effective use of Abilify (Aripiprazole) as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Regular communication with your healthcare team is key to managing your treatment effectively.