How Does Abilify Work?

Abilify^® (aripiprazole) is a medication that is used for treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It can also be used along with antidepressants to treat depression. The drug is available by prescription and comes in several different forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and a liquid.

 

Many people may wonder, "How does Abilify work?" Abilify belongs to a group of medications called atypical (or second-generation) antipsychotics. It is not entirely clear how this medication works for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. However, it is known to block or lessen the effects of several chemicals in the brain. These chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

 

Keep in mind that Abilify is not a cure for these conditions -- it only helps to control symptoms. In clinical studies, people taking the medication experienced improvements in their schizophrenia symptoms (including hallucinations and suspiciousness). Abilify has also been shown to be effective at treating episodes of mania or mixed episodes (involving both mania and depression).