Abilify is a brand-named antipsychotic medication used to treat certain mood/mental disorders such as schizophrenia in children and adults aged 13 years and above, bipolar disorder in children and adults who are 10 years and above, and Tourette’s syndrome in children aged 6 years and above. 

It is also used to treat some symptoms associated with Autism, such as aggression, mood swings, irritability, etc. Abilify, in combination with antidepressants, can also treat major depressive disorders in adults. 

Dosage

Abilify is taken orally; its active ingredient is aripiprazole, available in different strengths from 2 mg to 30 mg. The following information describes the dosages commonly recommended for various conditions; however, your doctor or healthcare provider may also assess your condition and prescribe the best dosage for your needs. 

Dosage for Schizophrenia

The starting dose of Abilify for adults with schizophrenia is 10 mg to 15 mg daily; if the symptoms don’t go away after two weeks of treatment, your doctor may increase the dose. The typical maintenance dose is 10 to 30 mg, and the maximum dose is 30 mg. 

For children aged 13 to 17, the dosage of Abilify in treating schizophrenia is 2 mg daily, and it may be increased up to 10 mg depending on their response to treatment.

Dosage for Depression

Abilify is used with other medications to treat depression with a starting dose of 2 mg to 5 mg daily; then, the dosage will be increased by 5 mg each week during the treatment. The typical maintenance dose is between 2 and 15 mg daily, and the maximum is 15 mg.

Dosage for Bipolar Disorder 

The typical starting dose of Abilify for this condition is 15 mg daily, and the maintenance dose is still 15 mg daily, but for some cases, it can gradually be increased to 30 mg daily. 

For children, the starting dose is 2 mg daily; after two days, it can be increased to 5 mg daily. After another 2 days, it can be increased to 10 mg daily. If the child still needs higher doses, the doctor may prescribe up to 30 mg daily.   

Side Effects of Abilify

The side effects of this drug include the following:

• Lightheadedness.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Tiredness.
• Vomiting.
• Blurred vision.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Drowsiness.
• Headache.
• Excess salivation.
• Weight gain.
• Constipation.

Precautions

Before taking Abilify, tell your doctor about your medical history, any condition you are currently treating, and if you are allergic to any of its active ingredients. During pregnancy, this drug should only be taken under strict supervision by a doctor because it may cause some undesirable effects on the child when born.

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Before taking the drug, tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or if you are already pregnant or breastfeeding.