Abilify (Aripiprazole)

When taking Abilify (aripiprazole) in oral forms such as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, or oral solution, you should administer it once daily, with or without food. The specific dosage of Abilify depends on the condition being treated and the patient's age: For adults with schizophrenia, the usual starting and target dose is 10 or 15 mg once daily. Doses higher than 15 mg/day have not shown greater effectiveness. Any dose adjustments should generally not be made before two weeks of treatment. For adolescents (13 to 17 years) with schizophrenia, the target dose is typically 10 mg/day. Treatment usually starts at 2 mg daily, increasing to 5 mg after two days, and then to 10 mg after two more days. Subsequent dose increases should be in 5 mg increments. For adults with bipolar I disorder (manic or mixed episodes), the starting dose is 15 mg once daily if used alone (monotherapy), or 10 to 15 mg once daily if used with lithium or valproate (adjunctive therapy). The target dose is 15 mg/day, but it can be increased to 30 mg/day based on clinical response. For pediatric patients (10 to 17 years) with bipolar I disorder, the starting dose is 2 mg/day, increasing to 5 mg/day after two days, and then to a target dose of 10 mg/day after two additional days. Subsequent dose increases should be in 5 mg/day increments. For adults with major depressive disorder (as adjunctive treatment), the recommended starting dose is 2 to 5 mg/day, with a dosage range of 2 to 15 mg/day. Dose adjustments of up to 5 mg/day should be made gradually, at intervals of no less than one week. For pediatric patients (6 to 17 years) with irritability associated with autistic disorder, the recommended dosage range is 5 to 15 mg/day. Dosing starts at 2 mg/day, increasing to 5 mg/day, with further increases to 10 or 15 mg/day if needed. Dose adjustments should occur gradually in increments of up to 5 mg/day at intervals of no less than one week. For pediatric patients (6 to 18 years) with Tourette's disorder, the recommended dosage range is 5 to 20 mg/day. For those weighing less than 50 kg, start with 2 mg/day, with a target dose of 5 mg/day after two days. The dose can be increased to 10 mg/day if tics are not optimally controlled. Dosage adjustments should be gradual, at intervals of no less than one week. For those weighing 50 kg or more, start with 2 mg/day for two days, then increase to 5 mg/day for five days, with a target dose of 10 mg/day on day eight. The dose can be increased up to 20 mg/day if tics are not optimally controlled. Dosage adjustments should be gradual, in 5 mg/day increments, at intervals of no less than one week.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Abilify, especially seizures, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, tardive dyskinesia, swallowing problems, and other serious (rarely fatal) side effects. Drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion can increase the risk of falling.

Abilify may interact with other drugs, and caution should be exercised when using it in combination with certain medications. Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Abilify and other antipsychotic drugs should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration pneumonia, particularly those with advanced Alzheimer's dementia.

Abilify may have the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles until they are reasonably certain that Abilify therapy does not affect them adversely.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Weight gain
• Dizziness
• Anxiety
• Constipation
• Movement disorders
• Restlessness
• Blurred vision
• Drooling
• Drops in blood pressure when standing up
• Choking or trouble swallowing

Serious Side Effects:

• Tardive dyskinesia
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Fainting
• Mental/mood changes (such as increased anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts)
• Trouble swallowing
• Restlessness (especially in the legs)
• Shaking (tremor)
• Muscle spasm
• Mask-like expression of the face
• Seizures
• Trouble controlling certain urges (such as gambling, sex, eating, or shopping)

Other Considerations:

• Hair loss is a possible but rare side effect of Abilify. Consult with your healthcare provider if you notice severe or bothersome hair loss during Abilify treatment.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Abilify, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Can you buy Abilify over the counter?

Aripiprazole, sold under the brand name Abilify, is not available over the counter. It is an antipsychotic medication that is only available with a doctor's prescription.

Can you buy Abilify from Canada?

You can buy Abilify from a Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve. Learn how to order Abilify from Canada.

Where can you buy Abilify cheap?

Finding Abilify (aripiprazole) at a lower cost often involves exploring several avenues, as the price can vary significantly depending on whether you're getting the brand name or generic. You can get lower prices for both brand-name Abilify and generic aripiprazole from a reputable Canadian pharmacy through DoctorSolve.com. 

Is Aripiprazole available in Canada?

Yes, aripiprazole is widely available in Canada. It is available under its brand name, Abilify.  

Generic name:	Aripiprazole, Aripiprazole
Formulation:	Tablet
Strength(s):	2mg, 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, 30mg
Quantities Available:	28, 30, 50, 56, 60, 84, 90, 100