What is Abilify?

Abilify (Aripiprazole) is an antipsychotic medication used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and Tourette’s syndrome or to treat depression in combination with other medication. Abiligy works by changing the actions and restoring the balance of natural certain chemicals within the brain. Aripiprazole can help to improve concentration, decrease hallucinations and help you to think more positively about yourself.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Abilify is taken by mouth typically once daily and should be swallowed whole.
• Your Abilify dosage is based on your age, medical condition, response to treatment and any other medications you are taking. Do not increase or change your aripiprazole dosage without speaking to a doctor.
• It can take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication, and you should continue to take Abilify even if you feel well.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of problems with blood flow in the brain, diabetes, heart problems, nervous system problems, obesity, low white blood cell count, swallowing problems or breathing problems while sleeping.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy or breast feeding.

Also be aware that:

• Abilify may make you sweat less which can make you more likely to get sun stroke. Avoid actions which may make you overheat such as using hot tubs or exercising in hot weather. Dress lightly and drink plenty of fluids during hot weather.
• Abilify may make you drowsy, dizzy or blur your vision. You should not drive, operate machinery or carry out any other activity requiring alertness until you are sure you can do it safely. Alcohol or marijuana can increase your dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid taking Abilify and alcohol or marijuana.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication.

Common side Abilify side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Weight gain.
• Blurred vision.
• Nausea, vomiting or constipation.
• Drooling or changes in appetite.
• Headaches.
• Dizziness, drowsiness or tiredness.
• Anxiety or insomnia.
• Cold symptoms such as a stuffy nose, sneezing or sore throat.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following aripiprazole side effects:

• Severe agitation, restlessness, distress or suicidal thoughts.
• A mask like facial appearance or twitching or uncontrollable movements. Particularly of the eyes, lips, tongue, face, arms or legs.
• Problems with speech.
• Trouble swallowing.
• Seizures
• Signs of a severe nervous system reaction such as stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, tremors or the feeling that you may pass out.
• Signs of low blood cell counts such as sudden weakness, an ill feeling, fever, chills, sore throat, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, red or swollen gums, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms, coughing or trouble breathing.
• Signs of high blood sugar such as increased thirst or urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin or weight loss.
• Intense urges such as increased sexual urges or unusual urges to gamble.

Q: How long does it take Abilify to work?

A:It can take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication, and you should continue to take Abilify even if you feel well.

Q: Is there an Abilify generic alternative?

A: Generic Abilify is known as Aripiprazole and could offer better savings. Abilify and Aripiprazole are available in 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg and 30mg strengths. Only brand name Abilify is available in 2mg.