Abilify Quick Facts

Abilify is a second-generation antipsychotic. It works by regulating dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain.

Generic Name: Aripiprazole

Primary Uses:

  • Schizophrenia
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Depression

Other Uses:

  • Schizoaffective Disorder
  • Autism

Availability: 2mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 30mg tablets.

Contraindications: 

  • none currently known

Side Effects:

  • Weight gain
  • Akathesia
  • Sedation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Suicidal ideation

Serious Side Effects:

  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  • Extrapyramidal symptoms
  • Tardive dyskinesia

Black Box Warnings: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death.

Metabolization: Liver
Excretion: Fecal and urinary
Half-Life: 75 hours

Withdrawal Effects: Abilify should be tapered down slowly to avoid any rebound psychosis or withdrawal effects. Withdrawal effects include insomnia, lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, dyskinesia, nervousness, dizziness, headache, non-stop crying, and anxiety.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aripiprazole

http://www.drugs.com/monograph/aripiprazole.html

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