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