Aripiprazole (Abilify): What It Does and How to Use It

Aripiprazole is a commonly prescribed antipsychotic sold under brand names like Abilify. People take it for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes as an add-on for major depressive disorder. It works differently from older antipsychotics — acting as a partial dopamine agonist — which often means fewer sedating effects but a unique side‑effect profile you should know about.

How to take aripiprazole

Aripiprazole comes as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, a liquid, and long‑acting injections. Doctors usually start at a low dose and increase gradually. Typical adult ranges for schizophrenia are about 10–30 mg daily; for bipolar mania dosing often centers around 15 mg daily; when used to boost antidepressants, lower starting doses like 2–5 mg are common. Follow your prescriber’s instructions — never double doses or stop suddenly without advice.

If you’re on the long‑acting injection, you’ll get it at the clinic every few weeks. Keep regular appointments so levels stay steady. Take the pill at the same time each day; you can take it with or without food. If you miss a dose, check the leaflet or call your provider — don’t try to “catch up” by taking two doses close together.

Side effects & safety tips

Common side effects include restlessness or akathisia (feeling jittery), insomnia, nausea, constipation, and sometimes weight gain. Some people notice tremor or stiffness. Aripiprazole can also affect metabolism — blood sugar and cholesterol can rise — so your doctor may check weight, fasting glucose, and lipids over time.

Watch for more serious signs: sudden high fever, stiff muscles, severe confusion, uncontrolled movements, fainting, or signs of an allergic reaction. Older adults with dementia-related psychosis have a higher risk of death when treated with antipsychotics; aripiprazole is not approved for dementia-related behavior problems.

Drug interactions matter. Aripiprazole is processed by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes. Strong inhibitors (like fluoxetine, paroxetine, or certain antifungals) can raise aripiprazole levels and may require dose changes. Strong inducers (like carbamazepine or rifampin) can lower levels. Tell your prescriber about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you use.

Practical tips: take it the same time every day, avoid alcohol (it can worsen side effects), and report new symptoms quickly. If you plan to stop the medication, ask your doctor about a taper schedule — stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal or symptom return. For women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, or if you’re breastfeeding, talk to your clinician about risks and alternatives.

Regular follow-up helps keep treatment safe and effective. If you experience severe side effects or thoughts of harming yourself, seek immediate medical help. For everyday questions about how aripiprazole might fit into your treatment, your prescribing clinician or pharmacist is the best place to get personalized answers.