Aripiprazole

Mental health

Also known as Abilify

Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic that works like a thermostat for dopamine — turning signaling down where it's too high and up where it's too low. It treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and it's often added to an antidepressant when depression isn't fully responding. Compared to some similar medicines it's less sedating, but it has its own quirk: a restless, can't-sit-still feeling called akathisia, which is worth reporting rather than toughing out.

How to take it

When

Once a day, any time that's consistent for you — morning works for many people since it isn't very sedating.

Food

With or without food, whichever you prefer.

Avoid

Alcohol, and be careful with driving until you know how it affects you. Get up slowly if you feel lightheaded.

Boxed warning

Not for older adults with dementia-related psychosis — it raises the risk of death in that group. Also watch for new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts, especially under 25 — tell someone and call the doctor right away.

Missed a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose — then skip the missed one. Never double up.

Common side effects

Restlessness or feeling like you need to keep moving — tell your doctor if this happens
Nausea
Headache
Trouble sleeping
Some weight gain and appetite or blood sugar changes over time — your doctor will monitor this

Call a doctor if

High fever with stiff muscles, confusion, and heavy sweating — this can be neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a rare emergency; call for help immediately
New urges you can't control — gambling, shopping, binge eating, or sex — this is a known reaction; call your doctor right away
Repetitive movements you can't control, like lip smacking or grimacing — possible tardive dyskinesia; call your doctor right away
Signs of very high blood sugar: extreme thirst, constant peeing, weakness — get medical help now
Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat — this is an emergency, call for help immediately

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.