Abilify is an antipsychotic drug that changes chemical actions in the brain. It’s used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression), and may be used in combination with other drugs to treat major depressive disorder. Abilify is also prescribed to treat symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (irritability, aggression, mood swings, self-injury) in children 6 or older.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and use Abilify exactly as prescribed.

• Abilify is taken once daily, with or without food.
• Keep Abilify in its blister packet before use. Handle with dry hands.
• Dissolve tablet in your mouth without chewing. Do not swallow whole.
• Don’t take Abilify for more than 6 weeks unless directed by your doctor.

Abilify can increase suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially within the first few months of treatment and in children, teens, and young adults. Monitor for worsening signs of depression.

Abilify is not approved for treatment of dementia-related psychosis, and can increase the risk of death in elderly people with dementia.

Abilify can affect your judgment and motor skills. Don’t drive or operate machinery until you’ve adjusted to the medication.

Avoid overheating and dehydration. Abilify may make it difficult for your body to reduce its temperature.

Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• History of heart problems, low blood pressure, stroke
• Diabetes
• Seizures
• Alzheimer’s
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Common side effects include:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness, lethargy, sedation
• Urinary incontinence
• Weight gain

More serious side effects include:

• Suicidal thoughts or actions
• Stroke
• Fainting
• Confusion
• Muscle rigidity or shaking
• Sweating
• High fever
• Low white blood cell counts
• Uncontrollable movement in face

Can I stop taking Abilify if I’m feeling better?

Talk to your doctor before discontinuing Abilify. Suddenly withdrawing treatment could lead to a relapse in symptoms or unpleasant withdrawal.

Will I gain weight on Abilify?

Weight gain is a common side effect of Abilify. Making healthy lifestyle choices including a regular exercise routine can help minimize this effect and improve your outlook and mood.

I already take an antidepressant. Why did my doctor prescribe Abilify? Isn’t it an antipsychotic?

If you have difficult-to-treat depression, taking Abilify together with an antidepressant may help relieve your symptoms. This seems to be especially true in younger patients.