Abilify (Aripirazole)

Abilify (Aripirazole)

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat multiple mood disorders. It is often prescribed in conjunction with other medications to treat major depressive disorder.

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic medication. This newer class of antipsychotic medications does not produce the same extrapyramidal symptoms having to do with coordination and movement or tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the lips, tongue, face, trunk or extremities) but are still able to control psychosis.

Abilify

What Is Abilify Used For?

Abilify is classified as an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder with manic episodes, but in combination with other medications, it can successfully treat major depression. It is one of a few drugs that can be used in combination with other antidepressants similar to Wellbutrin.

Other conditions treated with Abilify include irritability, aggression, specific mood swings, tantrums and self-mutilation, especially among younger children. Abilify can be prescribed in a drug rehab setting for dual diagnosis treatment of mood disorders and for  substance-induced mood disorders as well. After withdrawal from cocaine, amphetamines or other prescription drugs, mood disorders will most likely appear. Abilify can be used to treat these mood disorders after detox has been completed.

Abilify Side Effects

The side effects from Abilify can be serious. In older adults Abilify side effects can contribute to heart failure, sudden death or pneumonia. If you experience any of these side effects while taking Abilify, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately to avoid complications.

  • High blood sugar
  • Increased urination
  • Excessive hunger
  • Flulike symptoms
  • Jerky, uncontrollable muscle movement
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headache

Abilify Withdrawal Symptoms

Abilify is best stopped by slowly decreasing the dosage to avoid several withdrawal symptoms. The most common withdrawal symptom of Abilify is flulike symptoms.Looking For Treatment?

If you are addicted to drugs or alcohol, you need a quality detox and treatment center to help you regain control of your life. Call 866-812-8231, Recovery Connection’s helpline 24 hours a day. A trained coordinator will answer all of your questions and help you find appropriate treatment for your needs.

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