Aripiprazole: What It Does and How to Use It Safely
Aripiprazole (brand name Abilify) is an antipsychotic many doctors use for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and as an add-on for major depression. It works differently from older antipsychotics — it partially activates dopamine receptors rather than fully blocking them. That can mean fewer movement side effects for some people, but it doesn’t eliminate risks.
If you or someone you care for is starting aripiprazole, here's a plain, useful run-through of what to expect and how to stay safe.
Common side effects and what to do
Side effects vary. The ones people notice most are akathisia (restlessness), insomnia, nausea, and sometimes weight changes. Some people feel more energetic; others feel drowsy. Serious but less common problems include increased blood sugar, high cholesterol, and movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia.
What to watch for: new or worse mood problems, aggressive behavior, sudden restlessness you can’t sit still, very high thirst or urination, or any twitching of the face or tongue. If you have these, call your clinician.
How to take aripiprazole safely
Dosing depends on the reason you take it. For adults with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, doctors often start low and adjust. Stick to the prescription — don’t change doses or stop suddenly. Stopping too fast can make symptoms return or cause withdrawal-like effects.
Practical tips:
- Take it at the same time each day to build a routine.
- You can take it with or without food.
- Keep regular check-ups for weight, blood sugar, and lipids — aripiprazole can affect metabolism.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take; aripiprazole is affected by drugs that change CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 enzymes.
- If you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and alternatives with your provider.
Some drugs lower aripiprazole levels (like carbamazepine) and others raise them (strong CYP inhibitors). That matters because levels that are too low may not work and levels that are too high increase side effects.
Want to buy medication online? Use licensed pharmacies that require a prescription and list contact details. Avoid sites that sell without a prescription or hide their address. If a deal looks too good, it’s often risky.
Final practical thought: aripiprazole helps many people, but it’s not the same fit for everyone. Keep an open line with your prescriber, report side effects early, and ask for routine lab checks. If something feels off, don’t wait — reach out to your healthcare team.
