Abilify (aripiprazole) is a medication prescribed for various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and as an add-on treatment for major depressive disorder. It also addresses irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder and Tourette syndrome in some children. Understanding the duration of its side effects is important for patients and caregivers.
Common Side Effects of Abilify
Abilify can cause a range of side effects as the body adjusts to the medication. Neurological side effects include restlessness, an inner urge to move known as akathisia, and tremors. Sleep disturbances like insomnia or drowsiness and fatigue are also common.
Gastrointestinal issues include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Headaches and dizziness are also frequent. Weight gain is a recognized side effect, which can be linked to metabolic changes. These initial reactions often diminish as the body acclimates to the drug.
Factors Affecting Side Effect Duration
The duration of Abilify’s side effects is not uniform; several individual factors can influence how long they persist. The prescribed dosage plays a role, as higher doses might lead to more pronounced or longer-lasting effects. Individual metabolism, or how quickly the body processes the drug, affects side effect duration.
The length of time taking Abilify also affects duration, with long-term use potentially affecting persistence. Concurrent use of other medications may introduce drug interactions that alter how Abilify is processed or exacerbate certain side effects. Individual sensitivity and body chemistry contribute to response variability, meaning two people on the same dose might experience effects differently.
Typical Duration of Abilify Side Effects
Many initial side effects of Abilify improve as the body adjusts to the medication. Nausea, dizziness, headache, and insomnia frequently lessen within the first few days to a couple of weeks. Restlessness and anxiety, common initially, can also gradually subside.
Some side effects may persist longer or necessitate dose adjustments. Akathisia, an inner sense of restlessness, can sometimes continue for weeks or months, though it may improve. Weight gain and other metabolic changes, like increased blood sugar or cholesterol, might endure as long as the medication is taken. Rarely, serious side effects like tardive dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements) can develop with long-term use and may not always resolve even after discontinuing the medication.
Managing Side Effects and Medical Consultation
Managing Abilify side effects involves practical strategies and close communication with a healthcare provider. Taking the medication with food can help alleviate nausea; adequate hydration is beneficial for preventing constipation. Adjusting the dose timing, such as taking it at night if drowsiness occurs, may also help manage sleep-related side effects.
It is important to contact a doctor if side effects are severe, persistent, or worsen. Immediate medical attention is necessary for symptoms like allergic reactions (e.g., swelling, trouble breathing), uncontrollable movements, high fever, rigid muscles, or confusion. Patients should never adjust their dosage or stop taking Abilify without professional medical guidance, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of the treated condition.