Abilify, generic name aripiprazole, is an atypical antipsychotic, that works by altering how chemicals within the brain function. Abilify is used to treat a variety of conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and most recently it was approved by the FDA for the treatment of irritability and aggression associated with autism. In some cases it is prescribed off label, meaning for other conditions it is not FDA approved for. Abilify is available in four forms; tablet, orally disintegrating tablets, liquid and as an injection.
Positive Effects
Abilify has many positive benefits, and can reduce symptoms of numerous mental disorders. According to a fact sheet produced by the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists, Abilify can reduce symptoms among schizophrenics, including hallucinations and delusions, as well as reduce social withdrawal and flat affect. For those with bipolar disorder, Abilify can help decrease common mania symptoms such as racing thoughts, impulsiveness, irritability, and the decreased need for sleep.
The makers of Abilify, indicate that typically for depression Abilify is prescribed as an add-on medication when a anti-depressant alone is not providing enough relief from depressive symptoms. In November of 2009 Abilify became approved for the treatment of some symptoms associated with autism in children ages 6 to 17 years, including irritability, aggression towards others, self harm and rapidly-changing moods.
Negative Effects
Abilify has numerous side effects, some mild and others that are more dangerous. The most common side effects associated with the use of Abilify are sedation, dizziness, headache, insomnia, nausea and vomiting. Serious negative effects of Abilify that require informing your doctor immediately include fever, fast or uneven heartbeat, jerky muscle moments, numbness, confusion, flu like symptoms, sores inside the mouth or lips, increased or decreased urination, seizures, jaundice and thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
Long Term Effects
Abilify first approved and markets in 2002, therefore any and all long-term studies have been since that time. According to the makers of Abilify, on average, patients taking Abilify gained 2.2 pounds over a year. This level of weight gain is not as high as with other mood stabilizers, however it should be noted it is a known risk. Additionally, Tardive Dyskinesia, known as TD, is an adverse effect that may come from long term use of Abilify. TD may cause slow or jerky movements that cannot be controlled, often in the mouth, the tongue or the jaw and may be irreversible.
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