How long does it take for Abilify to work?

Abilify (aripiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic available as oral tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, oral solution, short‑acting injection, and long‑acting injections. Onset and full effect vary by formulation.

Onset by formulation

  • Oral forms (tablets, MyCite, solution): begin improving symptoms in 1–2 weeks; full benefits may take 2–3 months
  • Short‑acting injection: peak blood levels in 1–3 hours; agitation relief often within 2 hours
  • Long‑acting injections (Asimtufii, Maintena): require ≥2 weeks to reach steady levels; continue oral dosing for 2–3 weeks after first injection to bridge until injectable takes effect

Frequently asked questions

What is Abilify used for?

  • Schizophrenia (ages 13+)
  • Bipolar I disorder (monotherapy or adjunct, ages 10+)
  • Add‑on for major depressive disorder (ages 10+)
  • Irritability in autism spectrum disorder (ages 6–17)
  • Tourette’s syndrome (ages 6–18)
  • Short‑acting injection: acute agitation in schizophrenia or bipolar mania (adults)
  • Long‑acting injections: maintenance in schizophrenia (Maintena) and bipolar I (Asimtufii)

How does Abilify work?

It modulates dopamine and serotonin receptors to help stabilize mood, thought, and behavior.

Common side effects

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness
  • Weight gain
  • Sleepiness, insomnia
  • Headache
  • Drooling, excessive saliva
  • Blurred vision, constipation, nausea

Serious side effects (seek help immediately)

  • Mood changes or suicidal thoughts
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (fever, stiffness, confusion, vital sign changes)
  • Metabolic changes (high blood sugar, cholesterol, temperature dysregulation)
  • Allergic reactions (hives, facial swelling, breathing difficulty)
  • Tardive dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements)
  • Impulse control problems (gambling, binge eating, sexual urges)

Warnings and precautions

  • Not for dementia‑related psychosis (increased mortality in elderly)
  • Boxed warning for suicidal thoughts in young people on antidepressants
  • Avoid abrupt discontinuation
  • Monitor for orthostatic hypotension, seizures, metabolic changes

Drug interactions

Tell your provider about all medications, including:

  • Antihypertensives (losartan)
  • Benzodiazepines (lorazepam)
  • HIV protease inhibitors (atazanavir)
  • Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs)
  • Seizure drugs (carbamazepine)
  • MAO inhibitors

How to know if it’s working

Track symptom relief. Agitation and psychotic features may improve within days; mood stabilization often takes weeks. Discuss dose adjustments with your doctor if no improvement.

Sources

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness: Aripiprazole overview
  • Abilify Prescribing Information (Otsuka, 6/2024)
  • Prescribers’ Digital Reference: Abilify Asimtufii & Maintena