Abilify vs. Lexapro: Comparing antipsychotics and antidepressants for mental health treatment

Both Abilify (aripiprazole) and Lexapro (escitalopram) are commonly prescribed medications for mental health conditions but have different mechanisms of action and are used to treat different symptoms.

What is Abilify?

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic approved to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Tourette’s syndrome, and irritability associated with autism. It is also used as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder. Abilify acts as a partial agonist at dopamine receptors and a serotonin antagonist, helping to balance brain chemicals.

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is an SSRI antidepressant approved to treat major depression and generalized anxiety disorder. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood and anxiety.

Side Effects of Abilify

Common side effects include headache, agitation, trouble sleeping, anxiety, nausea, and dizziness. More severe effects can include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, high blood sugar, and tardive dyskinesia.

Side Effects of Lexapro

Common side effects include headache, nausea, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and diarrhea. Serious risks include worsening depression, serotonin syndrome, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Effectiveness of Abilify and Lexapro

While Lexapro is primarily used for depression and anxiety, Abilify is used for a range of conditions including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It can also be added to antidepressant therapy when the initial treatment is not sufficient.

Combining Abilify and Lexapro for Depression

For some patients, combining Lexapro with Abilify enhances treatment effectiveness for depression. Clinical trials have shown that this combination can significantly improve symptoms compared to either medication alone or a placebo.

Sources

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  • Furukawa Y, et al. “Optimal dose of aripiprazole for augmentation therapy of antidepressant-refractory depression: preliminary findings based on a systematic review and dose–effect meta-analysis.” The British Journal of Psychiatry, 2022.
  • Citrome L. “A review of aripiprazole in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder.” Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat, 2006.
  • Matthews JD, et al. (2009). “An open study of aripiprazole and escitalopram for psychotic major depressive disorder.”
  • Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. “Abilify (aripiprazole).” Updated 2024.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness. “Escitalopram (Lexapro).” Accessed 2024.