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