Does Abilify cause weight gain?
Antipsychotics are commonly used to treat symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Among these, Abilify (aripiprazole) is noted for having a lower chance of causing weight gain compared to other antipsychotic drugs.
Understanding Abilify
Abilify is an atypical or second-generation antipsychotic approved by the FDA to treat various mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, treatment-resistant depression, irritability associated with autism in children, and Tourette syndrome in children. It works by affecting neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which helps to balance out the chemicals and reduce symptoms.
Weight Gain with Abilify
Although Abilify is associated with weight gain, it is generally less severe compared to other antipsychotics. About 14% of people might experience significant weight gain over a 26-week period. This weight gain varies with both short-term and long-term use.
Causes of Weight Gain on Abilify
The weight gain associated with Abilify could be due to increased appetite, changes in metabolism, and decreased physical activity due to fatigue. Additionally, genetic factors and interaction with other medications might contribute to weight changes.
Comparison with Other Antipsychotics
Other antipsychotics like Zyprexa (olanzapine) and Clozaril (clozapine) are known to cause more significant weight gain compared to Abilify, which is considered to have a lower risk of weight gain.
Other Common Side Effects of Abilify
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, restlessness, constipation, anxiety, agitation, and trouble sleeping. More serious effects include suicidal thoughts, increased risk of stroke, tardive dyskinesia, higher blood sugar, and changes in cholesterol levels.
Managing Weight Gain on Abilify
To manage weight while taking Abilify, it’s recommended to engage in regular exercise, eat a healthy diet, manage stress effectively, and monitor your weight closely.
Weight After Stopping Abilify
Weight loss after stopping Abilify may vary. Factors like the duration of being overweight, other medications, genetics, diet, and exercise play a role in determining if weight loss will occur.
Sources
- McQuade, R. D., et al. (2004). Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
- Speyer, H., et al. (2021). Frontiers in Endocrinology.
- Weiss C, et al. (2018). International Clinical Psychopharmacology.
- Abilify (aripiprazole) prescribing information. Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.
- Dayabandara, M., et al. (2017). Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment.