Bipolar Disorder Articles A-Z
Abilify is a medication that can be prescribed to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. This eMedTV Web page offers a more in-depth look at Abilify and its effects, possible side effects, and dosing information.
Abilify alternatives can include therapy and other drugs. This eMedTV page lists drugs that can be used as alternatives to Abilify (such as mood stabilizers), and also discusses how psychotherapy can help people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
It is not known whether Abilify passes through breast milk in humans. This eMedTV article explains that you should be sure to talk with your doctor if you are breastfeeding and have been prescribed Abilify.
Diabetes is among the serious side effects that can potentially occur with the use of Abilify. This eMedTV page discusses Abilify and diabetes in more detail, explaining why the drug may cause diabetes in some people.
It is possible to develop a dry mouth during treatment with Abilify. This article from the eMedTV archives offers more information on Abilify and dry mouth, including a list of recommendations on what to do if dry mouth occurs.
Hair loss is a rare but possible side effect of Abilify. This section of the eMedTV library offers more information on Abilify and hair loss, and explains what your doctor may recommend if hair loss becomes a bothersome side effect for you.
Insomnia is one of the most common side effects of Abilify. This eMedTV page discusses Abilify and insomnia in more detail, noting in particular how common this problem is in people taking Abilify, and offering suggestions for improving sleep habits.
A doctor may prescribe Abilify to a pregnant woman if its benefits outweigh any possible risks to the fetus. This eMedTV article further explores Abilify and pregnancy, explaining what to do if you become pregnant while taking the drug.
As this eMedTV article explains, Abilify may cause weight gain in some people -- increasing their risk of diabetes or other health problems. If you're taking Abilify and weight gain becomes a problem, let your doctor know.
The recommended Abilify dosage for people with bipolar disorder is 30 mg once a day. This eMedTV segment also offers dosing guidelines for the treatment of schizophrenia and depression, and explains why the drug must be taken exactly as prescribed.
Among the drugs that can potentially interact with Abilify are alcohol, quinidine, and imatinib. This eMedTV resource lists other drugs that can lead to Abilify drug interactions and explains what may occur as a result of these interactions.
If you take too much Abilify, overdose symptoms may include vomiting, shakiness, and confusion. This eMedTV Web page lists other signs of an Abilify overdose and explains what treatment options are available for people who take too much Abilify.
Sexual side effects that have been reported with Abilify include impotence, priapism, and changes in libido. This eMedTV segment describes Abilify sexual side effects in more detail and explains how common these problems are.