Abilify Side Effects

Serious Side Effects of Abilify

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which is characterized by high fever, stiff muscle, confusion, sweating, and changes in pulse, heart rate and blood pressure.
High blood sugar
Increased weight gain
Difficulty swallowing
Tardive dyskinesia, which is characterized by uncontrolled movements in the face, tongue, or other body parts.
Decreased blood pressure
Low white blood cell count
Seizures

Alert your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects.

Common Side Effects of Abilify in Adults

vomiting
constipation
headache
dizziness
restlessness
anxiety
insomnia

Common Side Effects of Abilify in Pediatric Patients

sleepiness, insomnia, fatigue
headache
vomiting, nausea
fatigue
increase appetite, weight gain
stuffy nose
uncontrolled movements such as restlessness, tremor, or muscle stiffness

Warnings & Recalls for Abilify

On April 11, 2005 the FDA issued Abilify (aripiprazole) a black box warning due to an increased risk of death in Abilify-treated patients with dementia-related psychosis (especially in the elderly). This came on the heels of a 2004 FDA mandate to the makers of Abilify to place a revised label on the medication that warns of an increased risk of diabetes.A life-threatening nervous system problem called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) may also present itself as a result of treatment with abilify. NMS causes high fever, stiff muscles, sweating, fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion and changes in blood pressure. NMS has a negative impact on the kidneys and is a severe medical emergency. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with NMS while undergoing treatment with Abilify you should call a medical professional immediately.Abilify can also exacerbate pre-existing heart complications as well as cause tardive dyskinesia, a disorder involving involuntary, repetitive body movements.Patients should be closely monitored for any irregular behaviors or worsening moods while taking Abilify, as this medication can cause an increased risk in suicidal thoughts or actions.

Abilify Treatment and Use

Abilify | Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic and anti-depressant manufactured by Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Abilify is available in a variety of forms including oral tablets, an oral solution, and intramuscular injection.

Abilify is thought to work by blocking or lessening the effects of certain chemicals (dopamine and serotonin) in the brain. These chemicals may be elevated in those with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Psychotic illness, such as schizophrenia, is considered to be caused by disturbances in the function of neurotransmitters (mainly dopamine) in the brain and Abilify is thought to work mainly by stabilizing the dopamine activity in the brain.

Abilify | Aripiprazole is indicated for the treatment of the following:

The symptoms of schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions) in adults and teenagers 13 years of age and older.
Management of bipolar disorder, either alone or when combined with lithium or valproate medications.
When used alone or with other medications to counter the symptoms of mania or mixed-episodes (mania and depression that happen simultaneously) in adults, teenagers, and children 10 years of age and older who suffer from bipolar disorder.
Irritability associated with autistic disorder in children ages 6 to 17. This includes the display of aggression toward others, pre-meditated self-injury, quick changing moods, and temper tantrums.

Other Names for Abilify

Brand Name:

Abilify

Generic (Unavailable):

Aripiprazole