Other brand names of Abilify are Aripiprazole.

Why do some drugs have different names?
These are trade or brand names registered by the manufacturer. In different countries manufacturers will often use different trade names. The medications have the same active ingredients, but may look different and have a different trade name. Generic drugs are the unadvertised brands. Generic drugs are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe, effective treatment option and they can save you money.

Most important fact about Abilify
Abilify can cause tardive dyskinesia, a condition marked by involuntary movements in the face and body, including chewing movements, puckering, puffing the cheeks, and sticking out the tongue. This condition may be permanent and appears to be most common among older adults, especially women. Ask your doctor for more information about this possible risk.

Abilify should not be used in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis (such as the type that may occur with Alzheimer's disease) due to the risk of sudden death, heart failure, pneumonia, and stroke.
How should you take Abilify?

Abilify should be taken once a day. It may be taken with or without food.
- If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

- Storage instructions...
The tablets should be stored at room temperature. The oral solution should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 6 months after opening.

What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Abilify.

- Side effects may include: Abnormal dreams, anxiety, blurred vision, chest pain, constipation, cough, fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, insomnia, light-headedness, nausea, neck pain, rash, restlessness, runny nose, sinus infection, sleepiness, tremors, vomiting, weakness, weight gain

Why should Abilify not be prescribed?
Abilify should not be used in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. In addition, this drug should not be used if it causes an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Abilify
The risk of tardive dyskinesia (see "Most important fact about this drug") increases with the total amount of Abilify that you've taken. To reduce the risk, the doctor will prescribe the lowest effective dose and resort to long-term therapy only if necessary. If you develop symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, see your doctor immediately. Therapy with Abilify may have to be discontinued.

In rare cases, Abilify has been known to cause a potentially fatal condition called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). Symptoms include high fever, rigid muscles, irregular pulse or blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, excessive perspiration, altered mental status, and changes in heart rhythm. If you develop these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Abilify should be discontinued.

Certain antipsychotic drugs, including Abilify, are associated with an increased risk of developing high blood sugar, which on rare occasions has led to coma or death. See your doctor right away if you develop signs of high blood sugar, including dry mouth, unusual thirst, increased urination, and tiredness. If you have diabetes or have a high risk of developing it, see your doctor regularly for blood sugar testing. Also be aware that the oral solution contains 400 milligrams of sucrose and 200 milligrams of fructose per milliliter.

Because Abilify tends to make some people sleepy, you should be cautious about operating hazardous machinery such as cars until you are certain the drug will not impair your ability.

In a few people, Abilify can cause an abrupt drop in blood pressure when they stand up, leading to light-headedness or even fainting. Use Abilify with caution if you have any kind of heart or circulatory problem, take blood pressure medication, or tend to become dehydrated.

Abilify has triggered seizures in a very small number of patients, and can also interfere with the swallowing mechanism. The risk of either problem is greater among older adults. If you've ever had a seizure, be sure to tell the doctor. Abilify should be used with caution.

Drugs such as Abilify can cause the body to overheat. Be cautious in hot weather and when exercising strenuously, and be sure to get plenty of liquids.

Abilify has not been tested in children or teenagers. Older adults should use the drug with caution.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Abilify
The doctor will need to reduce the dosage of Abilify when you take the following additional drugs:
Fluoxetine
Ketoconazole
Paroxetine
Quinidine

On the other hand, the dosage of Abilify should be increased when you take carbamazepine.

Be cautious when taking Abilify with blood pressure medications classified as alpha-adrenergic blockers, including doxazosin mesylate and terazosin hydrochloride. Caution is also advised when combining Abilify with drugs that act on the brain, including tranquilizers, antidepressants, sleeping pills, narcotic painkillers, and other schizophrenia medications.

Although Abilify does not interact with alcohol, the manufacturer recommends avoiding the combination.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Abilify during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. The drug is recommended only if its benefits are thought to outweigh the potential risk to the baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

Breastfeeding is not recommended during Abilify therapy.

Recommended dosage for Abilify
ADULTS
The usual dose is 10 or 15 milligrams taken once a day. The doctor will wait at least 2 weeks before prescribing an increased dosage.

Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of Abilify overdose may include: Sleepiness, vomiting.