Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic first released in 2002 and prescribed under the generic name aripiprazole. Abilify is prescribed for a variety of conditions and works by altering how chemicals function within the brain. According to information provided by the manufacturer, Abilify is thought to work by affecting the activity of some key brain chemicals, including adjusting dopamine, instead of completely blocking it, and adjusting serotonin. Abilify is available in a variety of dosages and in four forms: tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, liquid and injections.
Effectiveness
Abilify as a treatment for depression is most often used as an add-on treatment when an antidepressant alone is not sufficiently reducing symptoms. Research conducted in part with the National Institute for Health Research has shown Abilify to be more effective than a placebo in clinical trials. Three studies, sponsored by Bristol-Myers Squibb, the makers of Abilify, and conducted in the U.S. during 2007, 2008 and 2009, involved a total of 1,890 participants. Study participants were given either a placebo or a dosage of Abilify between 2 and 20 mg/daily.
Dosage
Prescribing information from the manufacturer of Abilify and published by the FDA indicates that dosage recommendations vary based upon the age of the patient as well as exactly what condition is being prescribed for. Among patients with major depressive disorder, Abilify can be used as an add-on treatment, and dosing in this case is significantly lower than for those using Abilify solely. The FDA recommends that when patients are already taking an antidepressant, Abilify should be prescribed in a dosing between 2 and 5 mg per day. To treat depression alone, Abilify may be used to up 30 mg daily.
Contraindications
Numerous medications should be avoided while taking Abilify, as they may increase, decrease or in some way alter the effectiveness of Abilify. According to the FDA, medications to avoid include carbamazepine, fluoxetine, ketoconazole, paroxetine, guanidine and most blood pressure medications. Furthermore, alcohol and recreational drugs should not be used while taking Abilify, and people should avoid strenuous exercise and prolonged exposure to heat.
Common Side Effects
The College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists notes that the most common mild side effects associated with Abilify are headaches, anxiety and insomnia. Among pediatric patients, the most common side effects shown in clinical trials were flat affect and fatigue. A common concern regarding Abilify is the possibility of weight gain, but based on studies provided by the company that produces Abilify, in six-week clinical trials patients on Abilify gained just over 2 pounds more than patients not on the medication. Furthermore, dizziness or light-headedness can occur as a result of orthostatic hypotension, a lowering in blood pressure as a result of getting up quickly from either a lying or sitting position. 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.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects require discontinuing the use of Abilify immediately. These side effects include urinating more or less than usual, jaundice, seizure and white patches or sores inside the mouth or on the lips. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, stiff muscles, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting are also cause for concern and require consultation with a doctor to determine if the symptoms are as result of Abilify. Long-term use of Abilify increases the risk of tardive dyskinesia, a condition resulting in slow or jerky movements that cannot be controlled, often in the mouth, the tongue or the jaw; they may be irreversible in some cases. Patients with depression should be particularly careful, as Abilify may lead to an increased risk of suicide. Anytime a patient has any thoughts or desire to harm herself or commit suicide, emergency care should be sought immediately.
