Aripiprazole (Abilify) is used to treat symptoms that accompany a variety of psychotic conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In some cases, it is used to treat symptoms such as aggression, temper tantrums and mood swings in autistic children who are older than age 6. While beneficial in many ways, this medication can produce many adverse side effects that patients should be aware of.
Headaches and Body Pain
The most commonly reported side effect among patients taking aripiprazole is headache, which affects 27 percent of those taking this medication. Joint pain, throat pain and abdominal pain may also occur, affecting between 2 and 10 percent of patients using aripiprazole.
Fatigue and Drowsiness
In some cases, aripiprazole causes patients to suffer from fatigue or drowsiness. Due to the number of patients who experience these symptoms---17 and 16 percent respectively---they are among some of the most common side effects reported by patients taking this drug. While bothersome, they pose no real health risk to you. It should be noted however, that until these side effects pass, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery.
Insomnia, Restlessness, Agitation
Insomnia, another common side effect of aripiprazole, affects 18 percent of patients taking the drug. Awakening from sleep not feeling rested, not being able to fall asleep, waking multiple times through the night and waking earlier than usual in the morning are all side effects that can be experienced when taking this medication.
You may also experience feelings of restlessness and agitation. According to eMedTV.com, 12 percent of patients suffer from restlessness, while 19 percent feel agitated. If these feelings do not subside, speak to your physician so that he can adjust your dosage or change your medication.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Aripiprazole may produce some unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects as well. These should just be temporary until your body becomes adjusted to the medication. Nausea affects about 15 percent of patients; vomiting, 14 percent, and constipation, 11 percent.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is a possibility for those taking aripiprazole; however, the exact percentage of patients affected is not known, according to eMedTV. While a minimal weight gain over an extended period of time might not be cause for concern, a rapid weight gain in a short period of time can increase your risk of developing diabetes, a more serious side effect of this drug. Therefore, if you notice a large or rapid weight gain occurring, speak to your doctor immediately.
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