Abilify
Also see more information on Abilify Oral from the
First Databank
drug library.
Brand name:
Abilify
Pronounced: a-BILL-i-fie
Generic name: Aripiprazole
Why is Abilify prescribed?
Abilify is used in the treatment of schizophrenia, the
psychological disorder that causes its victims to lose touch with
reality, often triggering hallucinations, delusions (false
beliefs), and disorganized thinking. The drug is thought to work by
modifying sensitivity to two of the brain's chief chemical
messengers, serotonin and dopamine.
Most important fact about Abilify
Abilify can cause tardive dyskinesia, a condition marked by
involuntary movements in the face and body, including chewing
movements, puckering, puffing the cheeks, and sticking out the
tongue. This condition may be permanent and appears to be most
common among older adults, especially women. Ask your doctor for
more information about this possible risk.
How should you take Abilify?
Abilify should be taken once a day. It may be taken with or
without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it
is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and
return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe to continue using Abilify.
-
More common side effects may include:
Anxiety, blurred vision, constipation, cough, headache,
insomnia, light-headedness, nausea, rash, restlessness, runny
nose, sleepiness, tremors, vomiting, weakness, weight gain
Why should Abilify not be prescribed?
If Abilify causes an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use
it.
Special warnings about Abilify
The risk of tardive dyskinesia (see "Most important fact about
this drug") increases with the total amount of Abilify that you've
taken. To reduce the risk, the doctor will prescribe the lowest
effective dose and resort to long-term therapy only if necessary.
If you develop symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, see your doctor
immediately. Therapy with Abilify may have to be discontinued.
In rare cases, Abilify has been known to cause a potentially
fatal condition called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS).
Symptoms include high fever, rigid muscles, irregular pulse or
blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, excessive perspiration, altered
mental status, and changes in heart rhythm. If you develop these
symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Abilify should be
discontinued.
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