What is Abilify used for?
Abilify (aripiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic that helps balance dopamine and serotonin in the brain. It is approved for multiple psychiatric conditions.
Approved indications
- Schizophrenia: Ages 13 and older
- Bipolar I disorder: Monotherapy or adjunct to lithium/valproate, ages 10 and older
- Major depressive disorder: Add‑on treatment in adults and children 10+
- Irritability with autism spectrum disorder: Ages 6 to 17
- Tourette’s syndrome: Ages 6 to 18
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Weight gain
- Lightheadedness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Drooling
- Trouble sleeping
- Restlessness (akathisia)
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Excess saliva
Serious side effects requiring immediate attention
- Mood changes including suicidal thoughts
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Fever, confusion, muscle stiffness, vital sign changes, sweating
- Metabolic issues: High blood sugar, diabetes symptoms, high cholesterol, temperature regulation problems
- Allergic reactions: Hives, facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty
- Tardive dyskinesia: Uncontrollable facial or body movements
- Impulse control problems: Gambling, eating, or sexual urges
Warnings and precautions
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Cardiac conditions: Heart disease, stroke, blood pressure changes
- Seizure history
- Cholesterol or triglyceride elevations
- Low white blood cell count
- Diabetes risk factors
Boxed warnings
- Increased mortality in elderly with dementia‑related psychosis (not approved for this use)
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults on antidepressants
Drug interactions
Tell your provider about all medications, including:
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g. losartan)
- Antihistamines (e.g. cetirizine)
- MAO inhibitors
- Benzodiazepines (e.g. lorazepam)
- HIV protease inhibitors (e.g. atazanavir)
- Quinidine
- Methadone
- Protein kinase inhibitors
- Seizure medications (e.g. carbamazepine)
- SNRIs and SSRIs (e.g. desvenlafaxine, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline)
Dosage forms and administration
Provider will individualize dosing. Forms include:
- Tablets (including MyCite sensor)
- Oral solution
- Orally disintegrating tablets
- Pre-filled syringes (Asimtufii, Maintena)
Follow titration schedule if provided and do not abruptly stop therapy. If a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless close to the next dose; do not double up.
Sources
- StatPearls: Aripiprazole (updated 2023)
- Abilify Prescribing Information (Otsuka, 6/2024)
- NAMI: Bipolar Disorder overview
- Mayo Clinic: Tourette Syndrome overview
- Cleveland Clinic: Major Depressive Disorder overview
- APA: Autism Spectrum Disorder definition
- NIMH: Schizophrenia overview