What is Abilify?

Abilify or generic Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic and antidepressant drug which alters thinking and behavior by targeting certain chemicals in the brain. Abilify is prescribed to treat a variety of mental or mood disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, and clinical depression.

The generic version of Abilify is called Aripiprazole. You will need a prescription from your doctor before you can buy Abilify or Aripiprazole generic. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Abilify

Abilify uses span several different mental or mood disorders. For starters, Abilify or Aripiprazole generic is prescribed to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and manic depression, which are caused in part by brain chemical imbalances. These disorders can be debilitating since hallucinations, delusions, and worrying behavioral changes are among the most common symptoms. While brand name or generic Abilify does not cure these conditions, it helps correct the chemical imbalances responsible for the symptoms.

Abilify can reduce "positive" symptoms of schizophrenia, meaning symptoms not normally present in non-schizophrenics. Examples of positive symptoms that Aripiprazole helps treat are hallucinations (whether they are perceived to be heard, smelled, seen, felt, or tasted), delusions, and disordered speech or thought. Long-term use of brand name or generic Abilify can also help prevent relapse of symptoms, both negative and positive.

Abilify has also been used extensively to treat individuals with bipolar disorder, primarily in the management of manic episodes (periods of high energy and euphoria that can increase in severity) and mixed episodes (both mania and depression occurring simultaneously) by reducing manic symptoms. Abilify is often used in conjunction with other medications to better treat the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Similar combined prescriptions have been studied that may also benefit individuals with unipolar depression.

What to know before taking Abilify

• Discuss any long-term side effects (including potential uncontrollable urges and compulsive behaviors) of Abilify with your doctor before considering taking this medication.
• Tell your physician about any conditions you have, including heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, or liver/kidney disease, as well as if you have a history of breast cancer, epilepsy, or low white blood cell counts, or if you have trouble swallowing.
• Inform your doctor of any medications you take, including non-prescription medication, vitamins, and supplements.
• Abilify is available in various forms that include pills, oral solution, an oral disintegrating tablet, and an Abilify injection.
• Pay attention to your doctor's dosage instructions. As is the case with many drugs used to treat mental disorders, Abilify is very powerful.
• Do not suddenly change your Abilify dosage or discontinue use, which can lead to Abilify withdrawal symptoms and relapse.
• Consult with your doctor before you take any new medications while taking Abilify. When combined with certain sleeping pills, narcotic drugs, and muscle relaxants, Abilify does not react well.Let your physician know if you experience any side effects while taking Abilify.

Possible Abilify side effects

As with all prescription drugs, there are potential side effects of Abilify.

Some people may experience:

• Weight changes
• Vision problems
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Excess saliva production

The above list contains a few of the possible Abilify or Aripiprazole side effects that may be experienced. Contact your doctor if you experience any bothersome or persistent side effects.