Abilify (Aripiprazole)
Purpose of Medication and Method of Action
Abilify is indicated for the short-term treatment of schizophrenia. The benefit of long-term use has not been established. Its mechanism of action is proposed to be increased activity at the D2 and 5HT-1a receptors on the brain coupled with antagonism at the 5-HT-2a receptor.
Side Effects
The most common side effects are: headache (32%), anxiety (25%), insomnia (24%), nausea (14%) and lightheadedness (11%). Unlike many drugs used to treat schizophrenia, the incidence of extrapyamidal side effects is similar to placebo.
Drug Interactions
Co-administration with ketokonazole may increase blood levels by as much as 65% thus increasing the chances for severity of side effects. Quinidine may also increase blood levels significantly and Abilify doses should be reduced by 50% if quinidine is added to therapy. On the other hand, carbamazepine (Tegretol) will decrease blood levels by 70% and decrease effectiveness proportionally.
Cautions and Contraindications
Abilify may produce a drop in blood pressure on standing (orthostatic hypotension). Use with caution in patient with a history of seizures or those at risk for aspiration pneumonia.
Usual Dose
10-15 mg/day administered once a day. Doses greater then 15mg/day did not increase the likelihood of a positive therapeutic outcome.
Patient Medication Information
These information sheets do not list all known side effects of the medications, only the most common side effects. For a complete list of side effects please contact your local pharmacy or the actual drug manufacturing company.