Abilify, the brand name for the generic drug aripiprazole, is an antipsychotic medication used in treating mental and mood disorders, including bpd and schizophrenia. It is also prescribed in conjunction with other prescription medications to deal with depression. Abilify works by helping to restore the balance of natural chemicals within the brain (neurotransmitters).
common abilify side effectsJust like any medication, there may be side effects experienced when taking Abilify. Remember that it should be prescribed only if your doctor has determined that the benefit of taking Abilify outweighs the Abilify negative effects. Most people using Abilify don't experience serious negative effects.
Common Abilify side effects include dizziness and lightheadedness; nausea, constipation or vomiting; fatigue and drowsiness, excess saliva that could cause drooling; blurred eyesight; and weight gain. Should these common Abilify side effects persist or worsen, the prescribing physician should be notified. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
More infrequently, serious Abilify side effects may occur. These could include fast or pounding heartbeat; restlessness; shakiness or muscle spasms and tremors; fainting; weakness; difficulty swallowing; swelling from the ankles or feet. Individuals taking Abilify ought to be monitored for mental or mood changes, such as depression, increased anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
Extremely serious conditions may result from taking Abilify. Some of these more rare Abilify side effects include the growth and development of tardive dyskinesia, a condition that may be permanent. Your doctor should be contacted immediately should any of associated symptoms manifest, e.g., unusual uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, face, arms, or legs.
Additionally, a serious, and occasionally fatal nervous system disorder may affect individuals taking Abilify. This Abilify side-effect is called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. It's signified by fever, confusion, quickened heartbeat, muscular stiffness, change in amount of urine and increased sweating. Medical attention should be sought immediately if these symptoms are exhibited by an individual who is taking Abilify.
Patients need to be aware that one of the negative effects of Abilify is an increased chance of heat stroke. Avoid activities that may cause overheating, for example exercising in hot weather, doing strenuous work, or using a hot tub. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, dress lightly, and stay in cooler or air-conditioned areas while the weather is hot.
Abilify can also increase blood sugar levels, causing trouble for diabetics. In rare cases, diabetic coma may occur.
Classified as a pregnancy category C medication, Abilify use ought to be discussed carefully having a physician prior to use while pregnant. Children born to women who have used this medication over the last trimester of pregnancy may occasionally develop symptoms. It is not, however, known if Abilify passes into breast milk.
abilify and pregnancy 
