subject: All You Need to Know About Abilify [print this page] All You Need to Know About Abilify All You Need to Know About Abilify
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Abilify' (aripiprazole), an atypical antipsychotic medication, for the treatment of schizophrenia in November 2002. This drug is actually a prescription antipsychotic medication. In earlier clinical studies, schizophrenic people taking this medicine experienced improvement in their symptoms (including suspiciousness and hallucinations). However, the warning in the black box regarding suicidal tendencies in young adults and children also emphasizes on the fact that it is not yet approved for treating mood disorders among children.
Abilify: FDA Approval History
This medication was first approved by the FDA in September 2004 for the treatment of manic and other mixed episodes. Further approval was granted in March 2005, for use in maintenance therapy in treating bipolar disorders. The FDA, in October 2007, again approved its usage for the treatment of schizophrenics between the ages of 13 and 17. In November 2007, even though Abilify's efficacy as an antidepressant was not proved, it was approved for usage in the treatment of adults suffering from major depressive disorders. It was around this time that the black box with the warning regarding suicidal tendencies in adolescents, young adults and children started appearing.
What is Abilify Used For?
Abilify is used for the treatment of psychotic conditions, such as bipolar disorder (manic depression) and schizophrenia. It is also used in combination with other medications for treating adults suffering from major depressive disorders. Furthermore, it is used for the treatment of irritability, aggression, temper tantrums, mood swings and self injuring behavior related to autistic disorder in children over the age of six.
Abilify: How it Works
The drug works in a different pattern compared to other medications used for treating the same symptoms. Typically, antipsychotics shut down the dopamine receptors. This medication, on the other hand, works by forcing the dopamine receptors to behave normally. During clinical trials of this drug, most patients lost a certain limited amount of weight. This is a great improvement over other medications like Zyprexa. Also, aripiprazole, as compared to older antipsychotics, was found less likely to cause tardive dyskinesia.
Abilify: Important Facts You Should Know Before You Start Using
Here are some other important facts one should be aware before using Abilify:
Do not take this drug if you are suffering from a cardiac condition, as it can result in light headedness and low blood pressure.
It is advisable not to drive after taking the medication as it may cause drowsiness.
Most common side effects of this drug include anxiety, nausea, headache and insomnia. Less common side effects include coughing, blurred vision, tremors, fever and a stuffy or runny nose.
You must abstain from alcohol when you are on this medication.
Women should not breast feed while they are on this drug.
If you experience symptoms such as anxiety attacks or rashes, it is advisable you contact your physician or doctor immediately.
This medication should not be used for treatment of psychotic conditions, such as dementia. It may lead to sudden death, heart failure or even pneumonia in older adults suffering from dementia related conditions.
