Abilify is used to treat symptoms of mood swings, aggression, irritability, and irritability associated with autistic disorder in pediatric patients aged six years or more. It is an antipsychotic medication that is available by prescription. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in the brain. Abilify is also used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression). It is also used together with other medications to treat major depressive disorder in adults.
Before taking Abilify
Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart attack or stroke.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of breast cancer.
Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.
Tell your doctor if you have seizures or epilepsy.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, vomiting, agitation, aggression, confusion, tremors, fast or slow heart rate, seizure (convulsions), trouble breathing, or fainting.
Abilify Side Effects
Common: Headache; fever; dizzy; nausea; constipation; anxiety; restlessness; weakness; confusion; rash; loss of appetite; sleepiness or unusual drowsiness; insomnia; unable to sleep; vomiting; weight gain; choking or trouble swallowing; a Feeling of Restlessness with Inability to Sit Still
Less Common: Blurred vision; coughing; fever; runny or stuffy nose; sneezing; tremor; joint pain ; foot pain; seizure (convulsions)
The following medications may either be affected by the presence of Abilify or may change how Abilify works:
Zoloft
Simvastatin
Seroquel
Prozac
Omeprazole
Metformin
Lithium
Clonazepam
What is the most important information I should know about Abilify?
If you are allergic to aripiprazole or any of the ingredients in Abilify, you should not take Abilify. Allergic reactions may range from itching, hives, rash, to anaphylaxis.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages while you are on Abilify.
Abilify has caused fatal heart attack and stroke in older adults with dementia-related conditions.
Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
