Aripiprazole (Abilify)
About Aripiprazole (Abilify)
Aripiprazole (Abilify) is an anti-psychotic drug for treating psychoses. Like other anti-psychotic drugs, the mechanism of action of aripiprazole is unknown. Moreover, like other anti-psychotics, it blocks several receptors on the nerves of the brain for several neurotransmitters (chemicals that nerves use to communicate with each other). It is thought that its beneficial effect is due to its effects on dopamine and serotonin receptors. Its effects on these receptors are complex, involving stimulation of the receptors but to a lesser degree than the naturally-occurring neurotransmitters (a process called partial agonism). The FDA approved aripiprazole as a treatment for schizophrenia in November of 2002.
Aripiprazole has been evaluated for safety in 7951 patients who participated in multiple-dose, premarketing trials in schizophrenia, bipolar mania, and dementia of the Alzheimer’s type, and who had approximately 5235 patient-years of exposure.
Studies conducted with Abilify show that patients gain little if any weight; and the drug seems to cause no changes in the plasma glucose levels that might suggest risk of diabetes.
Usual Side Effects
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Stomach upset
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Blurry vision
- Weight gain
Rare Side Effects
- Seizures
- Stiff muscles
- Sweating
- Low blood pressure
- Trouble swallowing
- Fainting
- Tremors
- Tardive Dyskinesia
Dosages
It looks like most doctors start off at 5mg a day and is taken generally at night.
Aripiprazole (Abilify) and Tourette Syndrome
Personal expierence
None
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