This
medicine is used to treat schizophrenia. Your doctor may prescribe this
medicine for other conditions as well.
General
Information
This
information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect,
adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions
about your medicines, talk to your health care provider.
How it Works
It
works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals in
the brain. These chemicals are referred to as "neurotransmitters".
How to Take It
Follow
the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine
may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Continue to take this medicine
even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
Possible
Side Effects
Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include:
vomiting
fever
lightheadedness
dizziness
change in weight
blurred vision
drowsiness
Contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY if you experience:
uncontrolled muscle movements (especially of the face or tongue)
severe muscle stiffness
irregular or unusually fast heartbeat (especially with fever
and increased sweating).
Contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY if you develop symptoms of high
blood sugar such as increased thirst, increased urination, or vision
changes. Keep all lab appointments.
Warnings/Precautions
Do NOT increase your dose of this medicine without first talking
to your doctor, even if you feel that the medicine is not working.
Do NOT abruptly stop this medicine without talking to your doctor.
This medicine may cause DROWSINESS or DIZZINESS, or lightheadedness.
DO NOT drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could
be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine.
Alcoholic beverages can increase the effects of this medicine
and should be avoided.
This medicine may reduce sweating. DO NOT become overheated in
hot weather, during exercise, or during other activities since risk
of heatstroke may be increased. Drink plenty of fluids.
This medicine may increase your risk of getting diabetes or increase
blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause serious problems
if left untreated. Your healthcare provider can give you more information
on this.
Overdose
Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact
your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
Drug
Interactions
Before taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter,
check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes supplements
and herbal products.
Missed
Dose
Take
your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose,
skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double
doses.
Storage
Keep
this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of
reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat
and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is
outdated or no longer needed.
Pregnancy/Nursing
If
you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and
risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is NOT known if this
medicine is excreted in breast milk. It is recommended that you DO NOT
breast-feed while taking this medicine unless your doctor or pediatrician
has told you to.
More
Information
For
more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider,
or you can visit this website, www.abilify.com for additional information
from the manufacturer of this drug.
This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions,
precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This is general
information and should not in any event be construed as specific instructions
for individual patients. The publisher does not accept any responsibility
for the accuracy of the information or the consequences arising from
the application, use, or misuse of any of the information contained
herein, including any injury and/or damage to any person or property
as a matter of product liability, negligence, or otherwise. No warranty,
expressed or implied, is made in regard to the contents of this material.
The reader is advised to check with their health care provider before
making any changes in their drug regimen.
