Abilify, known generically as aripiprazole, is an atypical antipsychotic and commonly prescribed mood stabilizer approved to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and the irritability and aggression associated with autism. Abilify works by altering the way chemicals function within the brain. The brain contains many neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, both of which are essential for emotional health and well-being. Abilify is thought to work by adjusting the activity of these chemicals. There are many common side effects as well as some serious side effects associated with the use of Abilify. The medication works for many; however, the side effects lead some people to discontinue its use.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with the use of Abilify are sedation, dizziness, headache, insomnia, nausea and vomiting. These side effects are more of an annoyance than a cause for medical concern, and each person has his own tolerance level for such symptoms. More serious adverse effects include increased or decreased urination, sores inside the mouth or lips, limb numbness, fever, fast or uneven heartbeat, seizures and thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
Tardive Dyskinesia
Tardive dyskinesia, known as TD, is an adverse effect that may appear after long-term use of Abilify. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke indicates that TD is a neurological syndrome characterized by repetitive and involuntary purposeless movements. TD can persist long after the patients stop taking the medication, and the condition may be irreversible.
Weight Gain
The cause and effect relationship between the use of Abilify and weight gain remains uncertain. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's medication guide for Abilify cites manufacturer findings that associate the use of Abilify with a slight gain in weight. Other studies have shown the weight gain to be more substantial, however. A 2009 study published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" found that in a study of 257 children and adolescents, patients gained 8 to 15 percent of their body weight within the first 12 weeks of taking Abilify. Dr Goodman, head of a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel commented on the study, stating that "the degree of weight gain is alarming."
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Medication Guide: Abilify
- College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists: Abilify Fact Sheet
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Tardive Dyskinesia Information Page
- "New York Times"; Weight Gain Associated With Antipsychotic Drugs; Duff Wilson; October 2009
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