Abilify

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Bipolar Disorder

Adults: The initial dose is 15 milligrams (mg) daily, which can be increased to 30 mg daily if needed. Treatment may be as long as 6 weeks.

Children and adolescents 10 to 17 years old: The recommended dose of Abilify is 10 mg daily, as monotherapy or adjuvant therapy with lithium or valproate. Start with 2 mg daily, then titrate to 10 mg daily over a period of 4 days.

Major Depressive Disorder

Adults: The recommended starting dose for Abilify as adjuvant treatment for patients already taking an antidepressant is 2 to 5 mg daily. The dose may be increased up to 15 mg daily if necessary.

Schizophrenia

Adults: The recommended starting dose for Abilify is 10 to 15 mg daily. Dosage increases, if necessary, should not be made before 2 weeks of initiation of therapy.

Adolescents 13 to 17 years old: The recommended starting dose is 10 mg daily, which may be increased to 15 mg daily if needed.

How should I take Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Abilify tablets should be taken as one dose, with or without food, as directed.

For the Abilify Discmelt orally disintegrating tablets, use dry hands to remove the tablet, and place the entire tablet on your tongue. Tablet disintegration occurs rapidly in saliva. Although it is recommended to take the disintegrating tablet without liquid, you may do so if needed. Do not attempt to split the tablets.

What should I avoid while taking Abilify/Abilify Discmelt?

Because Abilify has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, use caution when operating machinery, including automobiles, until you know how Abilify affects you.

Avoid alcohol while taking Abilify.

Avoid rapid movements, such as quickly rising from a seated or lying position, as this can cause severe dizziness and/or fainting.

Avoid strenuous exercise, or prolonged exposure to heat, since this could contribute to a rise in core body temperature and dehydration.

Avoid excessive sugar intake if you have diabetes, since Abilify may elevate blood sugar levels.