Abilify Risks and Side Effects: What You Need to Know
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|Abilify (generic name: Aripiprazole) is a commonly prescribed medication for mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, major depressive disorder (as an add-on treatment), Tourette's disorder and sometimes irritability associated with autism.
It is an antipsychotic medication that works by balancing the chemicals in the brain which help regulate mood, behavior and thoughts.
Like every other drug, Aripiprazole can cause unwanted side effects. This article talks in detail about what you must know about Aripiprazole, highlighting the side effects and risks associated with it.
What is Aripiprazole?
Aripiprazole is an atypical or second-generation antipsychotics (SGA) medication. This means it belongs to a newer group of medications used for various mental health conditions. This new class of drugs works by affecting brain chemicals more selectively than older antipsychotics.
This medicine is believed to balance the actions of chemicals like dopamine and serotonin in the brain. These two key neurotransmitters that influence your mood, how you think, feel and act.
By partially stimulating some receptors and blocking others, it helps stabilize overactive or underactive brain activity. This way it promotes better emotional and mental balance. This balance helps reduce symptoms like hallucinations, mood swings, and depression.
Aripiprazole is approved by FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to treat mental health conditions such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, Tourette’s disorder, Depression, irritation associated with Autism.
FDA-Approved Uses of Abilify:
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Schizophrenia (in adults and teens age 13+)
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Bipolar I Disorder (including manic and mixed episodes)
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Major Depressive Disorder (as an add-on to antidepressants)
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Tourette’s Disorder (in children and adolescents)
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Irritability associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (in children age 6–17)
What are the Side Effects of Aripiprazole?
While Aripiprazole can help stabilize your mind, it may also cause mild to serious side effects. If you or any loved one of yours are using or considering this medicine, it is crucial to understand its side effects.
Know that side effects may vary depending on your health condition and age, and not everyone may experience them.
Some common side effects that are most frequently reported include:
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Headache
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Insomnia
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Dizziness
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Restlessness or inability to sit still (akathisia)
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Constipation
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Fever
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Blurred vision
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Trouble sleeping
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Anxiety
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Drowsiness
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Tremors
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Change in appetite
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Weight gain
Most of these side effects are mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if the side effects persist or become worse, it’s important to get in touch with your doctor.
Serious Side Effects: What to Watch For
As discussed above, Abilify does come with some serious side effects that you should not ignore. These include:
1. Movement Disorders
Abilify can cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). These are drug-induced movement disorders such as:
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Tremors
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Muscle stiffness
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Uncontrollable movements (especially of the face and tongue)
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Tardive dyskinesia (repetitive, involuntary movements)
2. Impulse Control Problems
One of the more unique and concerning side effects of Abilify is its potential to trigger impulsive behaviors like:
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Gambling
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Binge eating
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Compulsive shopping
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Hypersexuality
The FDA has issued warnings about these behaviors. If you or someone you know is experiencing sudden urges while taking Abilify, it’s critical to seek medical advice right away.
3. Increased Blood Sugar and Diabetes Risk
Abilify may raise blood sugar levels, leading to or worsening diabetes. You should watch for signs like:
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Increased thirst
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Frequent urination
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Fatigue
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Unexplained weight loss
Special Warnings for Children and Older Adults
For Children & Teens:
Although Abilify is FDA-approved for certain conditions in children, some side effects may be more pronounced in younger people. These may include:
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Increased restlessness
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Mood swings, or
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Changes in behavior
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Increased risks of suicidal thoughts
Close monitoring by doctors and caregivers is crucial to ensure safety and early detection of any concerning symptoms.
For Older Adults with Dementia:
There is an increased risk of stroke and death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis who are taking antipsychotic drugs like Abilify.
When to Take Side Effects Seriously
Some serious side effects of Abilify may require immediate medical attention. Pay a close attention to symptoms like:
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Suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in young adults and teens
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Tardive dyskinesia – involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or limbs
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Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) – a rare, life-threatening condition with high fever, confusion, and muscle stiffness
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High blood sugar or diabetes – watch for increased thirst, hunger, and frequent urination
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Seizures
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Stroke risk in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis (Abilify is not approved for this use)
Mixing Abilify with Other Medications
Abilify may interact with:
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Other antidepressants
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Anti-seizure medications
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Blood pressure medications
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Antifungal drugs
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Alcohol or sedatives
These combinations may increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or heart issues. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking to avoid harmful interactions. Also, avoid alcohol while on Abilify, as it can worsen drowsiness and increase the risk of side effects.
Tips for Safe Use of Abilify
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Take Abilify exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
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Monitor for any mood changes or unusual behaviors.
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Go for regular check-ups to monitor weight, blood sugar, and movement-related side effects.
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Communicate openly with your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms.
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For mild effects like nausea or dizziness, try taking it with food, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest.
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If symptoms become severe, especially involving movement problems, mood changes, or high fever, seek emergency care immediately.
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Don’t stop Abilify suddenly. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms or a return of your original condition. Always consult your doctor first.
In The Conclusion
Abilify can be a helpful medication for managing serious mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. However, it’s important to stay informed about possible side effects and risks of this medicine. Understanding your body’s response, monitoring your symptoms, regularly visiting doctor, and open communication with your healthcare team can help you get the most benefit while staying safe.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been assessed or evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The supplements listed above are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The findings are solely based on preliminary research and ongoing studies. Individual results after trying these health tips and measures may vary.
References:
- Side Effects of Aripiprazole. NHS, 19 May 2023, https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/aripiprazole/side-effects-of-aripiprazole/.
- Abilify Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing. WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-64439/abilify-oral/details
