Abilify Oral Solution (Aripiprazole)

What is Abilify Oral Solution?

Abilify (aripiprazole) is an antipsychotic medicine (atypical type).

What is Abilify Oral Solution used for?

Abilify is indicated for the treatment of symptoms of certain psychotic disorders such as bipolar disorder (manic depression) and schizophrenia. It is also used to treat symptoms of aggression, irritability, mood swings, etc in children aged 6 years and above. The drug can decrease hallucinations and improve concentration. It helps reduce nervousness and also treats major depressive disorders in adults. However, Abilify does not treat psychotic disorders that are related to dementia.

How does Abilify Oral Solution work?

Abilify works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

How to use Abilify Oral Solution

Abilify should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The drug is usually taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

If you are taking the liquid form of the medicine, measure the dose with a special measuring device and not with a regular tablespoon or teaspoon.

If you are taking the rapidly dissolving tablets, make sure that your hands are dry before you handle the tablet. Place the tablet on the tongue and allow it to dissolve completely. Then swallow it with saliva. Do not break, split or crush the tablet. Also, do not take water along with this medicine.

Get your blood tested on a regular basis.

Abilify Oral Solution warnings and precautions

Do not use this drug if you are allergic to aripiprazole.  Prior to taking Abilify, tell your doctor if you have phenylketonuria, a kidney or liver disease, epilepsy, swallowing trouble, heart disease; a history of stroke, heart attack, breast cancer, or low WBC (white blood cells), or if you have a personal or family history of diabetes.

Do not take this medicine for more than 6 weeks, unless advised by your doctor. While using Abilify, avoid drinking alcohol or performing activities that require alertness. Do not get up too fast from a lying or sitting position in order to prevent a fall.

Avoid becoming dehydrated or overheated.

Pregnant and lactating women should not use this drug without consulting their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Abilify Oral Solution dose?

If you have missed your Abilify dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Abilify Oral Solution overdose?

If you have taken an Abilify overdose, you should seek medical attention.

Abilify Oral Solution interactions

Before taking Abilify, consult your doctor if you take carbamazepine (Tegretol, Carbatrol), phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital (Solfoton, Luminal), rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane) or rifabutin (Mycobutin); itriconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral); quinidine (Quinaglute, Cardioquin); fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), fluoxetine (Prozac); or medicines to treat certain heart conditions or high blood pressure.

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use, especially those that make you feel sleepy. Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Abilify Oral Solution side effects

Abilify side effects include hives, swollen glands, fever, chills, sores or white patches in mouth or on lips, breathing trouble, headache, confusion, dry skin, stiff muscles, uneven heartbeats, sudden weakness, body ache, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, jaundice, swelling, increased thirst, increased frequency of urination, decreased amount of urination, seizure, breath odor; problems with speech, vision or balance; and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Abilify, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor right away.

Drowsiness, dizziness, swallowing trouble or choking, upset stomach, weight gain, anxiety, constipation, and insomnia are some less serious side effects from Abilify.