A number of side effects have been reported with Abilify, and weight change appears to be a common problem. In clinical studies, up to 6.8 percent of people taking the medication gained at least 7 percent of body weight. While a small amount of weight gain is typical during treatment with Abilify, some people can gain very large amounts of weight while taking the drug (which can increase the risk of
diabetes or other health problems). If you are taking Abilify and weight change occurs rapidly or suddenly, notify your healthcare provider immediately.
If you are noticing small, unexplained weight gain with Abilify, there are some things you can do, including:
- Eating a heart-healthy diet that may include foods such as:
- Lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
- Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts.
- Limiting foods with saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
- Participating in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week.
- Limiting your intake of alcohol.
(Click Abilify and Weight Gain to find out what your healthcare provider may recommend if you experience excessive weight gain during treatment with Abilify.)
