Abilify (aripiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to manage various mental health conditions. It functions by influencing the activity of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters in the brain that play a role in regulating mood, behavior, and thought processes. While not a cure, Abilify can alleviate symptoms of psychiatric disorders. It is available by prescription and comes in several forms, including oral tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, oral solutions, and injectable formulations.
Conditions Abilify Treats
Abilify treats a range of psychiatric conditions, either alone or as an add-on therapy. It is approved for treating schizophrenia in adults and adolescents (13-17 years), helping to address symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
It is also indicated for bipolar I disorder, managing manic and mixed episodes in adults and children/adolescents (10-17 years). In adults, it can also be used for maintenance treatment to prevent manic episode recurrence. For Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Abilify is an adjunctive treatment for adults, taken alongside other antidepressants to enhance their effects.
Abilify also addresses irritability associated with Autistic Disorder in children and adolescents (6-17 years) and is approved for Tourette’s Disorder in children and adolescents (6-18 years).
Daily Dosing Guidelines
Abilify oral tablets are generally taken once daily, with or without food. While no specific time is mandated, taking it at the same time daily helps maintain consistent medication levels, which is important for effectiveness and managing side effects like drowsiness or insomnia.
This daily dosing advice primarily applies to its various oral forms, including standard tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral solutions. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In such cases, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed, without taking a double dose.
Understanding Treatment Duration and Effects
Initial symptom changes may be noticed within one to two weeks of starting Abilify. However, full therapeutic effects typically take two to three months to become apparent, meaning immediate, complete relief should not be expected.
For chronic conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, Abilify is often a long-term medication. Its duration is determined by a healthcare provider, serving as a management tool to prevent symptom recurrence and maintain stability. Dosage adjustments are usually made gradually over several weeks, allowing the body to adapt and reach a steady state.
Key Considerations Before Starting
Before starting Abilify, a thorough medical consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary. Provide a complete medical history, including existing health conditions (e.g., heart problems, diabetes, seizures, liver/kidney issues) and all current medications (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbal supplements) to prevent potential drug interactions.
Inform your doctor about pregnancy, plans for pregnancy, or breastfeeding due to potential risks. Discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider for monitoring and management. Lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding alcohol, are generally recommended to prevent enhanced sedative effects or other adverse reactions.