Patient handout
Aripiprazole (Abilify)
You have been prescribed aripiprazole. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and, at low doses, as an add-on when an antidepressant alone has not been enough. It is less sedating and causes less weight gain than many drugs in its class. Its most distinctive side effect is restlessness.
How to take it
- Take it once a day at the same time, with or without food. Morning is usual; switch to night if it makes you sleepy.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day. Do not double up.
- Dose changes are made in steps of at least one to two weeks, because it builds up slowly in the body.
- Do not stop taking your antidepressant when aripiprazole is added; they work together.
What to expect, and when
- Week 1 to 2: restlessness, nausea, or trouble sleeping are the most common early effects. Some people feel calmer quickly.
- Week 2 to 4: as an add-on for depression, mood often begins to lift within two to four weeks.
- Week 4 to 8: full benefit at the right dose.
- Weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol are checked at the start and periodically.
Common side effects
Restlessness or an urge to keep moving (akathisia), trouble sleeping or sleepiness, nausea, headache, dizziness, constipation, mild tremor, and some weight gain over time. Tell us about restlessness; a dose change or an added medicine usually fixes it.
Call the office the same day if
- New compulsive urges such as gambling, spending, eating, or sexual behavior that are out of character
- High fever with stiff muscles, confusion, and sweating (a rare emergency; call 911)
- Uncontrolled movements of the face, tongue, or limbs
- Fainting, or a very fast or irregular heartbeat
- New or worsening thoughts of hurting yourself; or a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Stopping
Do not stop aripiprazole suddenly. Symptoms can return, and we taper gradually together.
Good to know
- Stand up slowly. Do not drive until you know how it affects you. Avoid alcohol.
- Tell other prescribers and your pharmacist. Some antidepressants, such as fluoxetine and paroxetine, and some antifungals raise aripiprazole levels; carbamazepine lowers them.
- If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell us.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.