Abilify medication explained

Abilify medication is also known by the name of its generic version, aripiprazole.

However, it can also be useful for treating major depression.

Some of the evidence supporting the use of Abilify is very strong.

However other evidence is contradictory or inconclusive.

Several double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown effectiveness for treating manic or mixed episodes in bipolar disorder.

There is also some research showing Abilify to be effective as a bipolar disorder maintenance therapy, either on its own or in conjunction with a mood stabilizer (e.g. lithium).

It is in the treatment of bipolar depression where the evidence is weak and contradictory.

Note that Abilify is NOT FDA approved for treating bipolar depression. It's main role as a bipolar medication is in treating manic symptoms, especially irritability and agitation.

"Abilify is attractive for patients who need a strong anti-manic, for example to control irritability. As with most bipolar medications, the side effects are many and varied so there are no guarantees. You won't know if Abilify is for YOU until YOU try it."

Learn more about Abilify

What is Abilify?

Abilify is a drug manufactured by US company Bristol-Myers Squibb.

It is what is known as a second generation anti-psychotic.

An anti-psychotic is a tranquilizing medication which reduces psychotic symptoms and enables the patient to think and behave more rationally.

"Second generation" anti-psychotics are also described as "atypical anti-psychotics". These are medications developed since the 1990s which have been shown to be more effective and have fewer side effects than traditional anti-psychotics such as Thorazine.

We still don't know exactly how Abilify medication works. It is generally understood as having a stabilizing effect on important neurotransmitters in the brain, especially dopamine, and to a lesser extent, serotonin.

The manufacturers themselves provide excellent answers to: What is Abilify?

Abilify prescribing information

1. Adult and adolescent schizophrenia

2. Adult and child bipolar mania

3. As an add-on medication for major depression

4. Agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar mania.

SIDE EFFECTS: Include but not limited to: Speaking difficulties
Loss of balance
Uncontrolled movements
Restlessness
Trouble swallowing
Trouble breathing
Anxiety
Headaches
and . . . WEIGHT GAIN:

CAUTIONS: NOT to be used to treat older adult patients who have dementia.