abilify

General overview about Abilify

Abilify refers to the brand name of the chemical compound known as aripiprazole. Aripiprazole, with the chemical formulation C23H27Cl2N3O2, is observed to control neurotransmission hyperactivity in the Central Nervous System and, therefore, is found in the category of medications which modulate psychotic disorders. More specifically, Abilify is prescribed for the management of schizophrenia (abnormal social behavior and reality negation) as well as for bipolar disorder (psychotic condition in which depressive and abnormally positive moods are interchanged). Medical specialists find this product useful in other antipsychotic treatments and it is included as an adjuvant to other compounds. Thereby, aripiprazole is benefic in the management of depression or autism in conjunction to other indicated medications. Being available in both injection and oral formulas, Abilify is released under medical prescription exclusively. This fact is based on the risks that Abilify can develop, if taken improperly. First of all, antidepressant medications, including Abilify, are able to increase suicidal thoughts and attempts, especially in young audience. Secondary, drugs which control psychotic estates (including Abilify) can bring about fatal outcome when taken by elderly patients. In this context, patients who are prescribed to receive Abilify for controlling their psychotic moods are closely monitored by their healthcare providers.

Which advantages are observed while taking Abilify?

From doctor's’ perspective, an antipsychotic drug should improve patient’s condition by reducing its symptoms with less side effects possible. From patient's standpoint, the medication should provide benefit as soon as possible, without being needed to re-prescribe further treatment. As what refers to Abilify in particular, should be appointed the fact that the improvement will be observed after long- term administration. This is explained by the fact that the doses are relatively low and the impact on the Central Nervous System is gradual. However, the investigational statistics highlight that the drug spreads positive effect on patients’ condition and symptoms as hallucinations, motivation lack and thinking disorganization disappear quickly. In addition, Abilify capacity of balancing dopamine and serotonin leads to a higher control over the social behavior of the patient, as well as to mood stability. It is necessary to mention that aripiprazole is beneficial in reducing irritability and agitation, which are met in autistic persons and those who suffer from bipolar disorder. The thoughts and plans get more organized and the panic of speaking and being in a social environment diminishes.

Disadvantages of taking Abilify

The other side of the coin is that Abilify is capable to intensify suicidal thoughts and attempts of self- damaging. Such outcome is predominantly (but not exclusively) observed in young patients. This is why the medication is prudently recommended (or not recommended at all) to individuals with previous attempts of suicide. Relying on clinical statistics, the rate of neuroleptic malignant syndrome is rather concerning with Abilify. Dyskinesia is another disadvantage which can develop during or following Abilify course. People receiving aripiprazole are not exempt from undergoing acute withdrawal syndrome while suddenly discontinuing the drug. Therefore, a gradual cessation of the compound is highly recommended in the aim of avoiding side events as tremor, irritability, or depression.