- Used to treat adult depression
- Used in the treatment of adult bipolar disorder and youngsters aged 10 to 17
- Used to treat schizophrenia
- Used in the treatment of autism in children aged 6 to 17
Abilify is the brand name for the generic drug Aripiprazole which was developed in Japan by Otsuka and is marketed jointly in the USA by Bristol-Myers Squibb. The drug is available in tablets, oral release tablets, oral solutions and injections. The tablets are available in strengths of 2, 5, 10, 15, 20 as well as 30 mg. The oral release tablets are available in strengths of 10 and 15 mg, the oral solution in a 1 mg/mL concentration and the injection in a 9.75 mg single dose vial.
Indications
Abilify is used to treat severe depression mostly in adults as well as other mental disorders like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and the irritability that accompanies autistic disorder. It is very effective in the treatment of manic and mixed episodes.
Action
The exact action of Aripiprazole is not quite known but it is believed that it has an antagonistic action in the brain on alpha1 receptors. It exhibits an affinity for serotonin and dopamine. The metabolization of Aripiprazole is through the biotransformation pathways of dehydrogenation, N-dealkylation and hydroxylation.
Side Effects
The drug Aripiprazole can cause side effects and anyone taking the drug must watch out for the least sign of any discomfort and report it to the physician immediately. There could be a feeling of light headedness or dizziness as well as a lot of drooling and a feeling of constant tiredness. Some experience vision problems, sleepiness or weight gain. More serious problems like confusion, stiffness of muscles and irregular heartbeat could also occur. Any uncontrollable muscle jerking or numbness or difficulty in speech should be reported immediately as should any swelling of the throat, tongue or face. Though in most patients, side effects are unlikely, there are cases where they do occur and immediate medical attention should be availed of.
Caution
You must tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs or if you are prone to any allergies. He must be apprised of your complete medical history especially about whether you are suffering from diabetes, cardiac problems, blood pressure problems, drug or alcohol abuse and any medication that you might be on, even if you are on vitamins or natural supplements. A blood test will probably be necessary to check the white blood cell count. This medication sometimes makes you more prone to sunstroke so it would be prudent to avoid too much sun and also to drink plenty of fluids when it is hot. It has been known to increase blood sugar so care should be taken to keep a watch on it and keep it in check.
Contraindications
Abilify is contraindicated in people who suffer from allergies to similar drugs as well as women who are pregnant or nursing. It is also not to be taken by children who are very young.