Side Effects of Abilify to Be Aware of

Key Takeaways

• Abilify (aripiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic that can cause common side effects, including nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and insomnia, most of which ease within the first few weeks.
• More serious side effects, such as tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and suicidal thoughts, require immediate medical attention.
• Never stop taking Abilify abruptly; tapering slowly under the guidance of a psychiatric provider helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely.

If you’re considering Abilify, it’s normal to ask, "What are the side effects of Abilify?" While many people tolerate it well, others may experience side effects that range from mild discomfort to more serious reactions that require medical attention.

Understanding what’s common, what’s temporary, and what could signal a bigger concern can help you feel more prepared before starting treatment. Knowing what to expect may also make it easier to talk openly with your psychiatric provider if side effects come up along the way.

What is Abilify (Aripiprazole)?

Abilify (aripiprazole) is a commonly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medication. It treats symptoms of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. The medication works by affecting dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain. This helps reduce symptoms like hallucinations, mood swings, and severe depression.

Aripiprazole comes in several forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, liquid solution, and long-acting injections. Your psychiatric provider will determine the best form and dosage based on your specific condition and treatment needs. Depending on your symptoms and treatment goals, your psychiatric provider may discuss Abilify vs. Seroquel or other antipsychotic medications to determine the best fit for you.

Common Side Effects of Abilify

Like all antipsychotics, Abilify may cause side effects or result in an adverse reaction, as per research in World Psychiatry. Common side effects of Abilify include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, constipation, and movement disorders like restlessness, tremors, or tardive dyskinesia (a disorder that causes uncontrollable movements).

"Some common side effects of Abilify may include vomiting, nausea, and headaches. As with prescribed medication, it's important to keep in touch with your prescriber or doctor to ensure safety and optimal effectiveness."

‍Talkspace therapist Elizabeth Keohan, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW

1. Nausea and vomiting

One of the most well-known side effects of Abilify is nausea. This risk can increase when Abilify is taken on an empty stomach. You can try to avoid nausea by taking Abilify with food or a snack and drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. If nausea persists, talk to your doctor about your options.

2. Constipation

Another Abilify side effect common in some people is constipation, which may lead to abdominal pain and discomfort. To reduce this risk, get enough fiber in your diet and drink plenty of water daily. Your doctor may also recommend medicine like over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners to ease this discomfort.

3. Drowsiness

Some people experience drowsiness while taking Abilify, so it's important not to drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the prescription drug might affect you. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as reading or watching television, until the effects have completely worn off.

4. Headaches

Headaches are a common side effect of this antipsychotic medication use. However, they typically dissipate within a few days of beginning treatment. If your headaches persist or worsen after over two weeks, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

5. Dizziness

Taking this antipsychotic medicine may result in dizziness due to its effects on blood pressure levels. Use caution when standing up quickly from sitting positions and avoid driving or operating machinery until these symptoms subside entirely.

6. Agitation

Feeling agitated can be a side effect of Abilify and may present as an uncontrollable urge or feeling of restlessness, irritability, increased energy levels, difficulty sleeping, or racing thoughts. It's essential to report any agitation experienced while on this medication so a medical professional can adjust your dosage if necessary.

7. Insomnia

Abilify side effects might also include insomnia or difficulty falling asleep at night, even if you feel tired during the daytime. You can attempt to combat insomnia caused by Abilify by going outside during daylight hours (even if it's just for 10 minutes) every morning and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga before bedtime.

Less Common Side Effects of Abilify

There are also some less common side effects you should be aware of. Additional side effects of Abilify can include:

1. Weight gain: According to a study in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, weight gain is a potential side effect of Abilify in some people. Abilify weight gain may occur due to changes in appetite or metabolic rate caused by the drug. If you experience weight gain while taking Abilify, talk to your doctor about ways to manage it safely and effectively.
2. High blood sugar: High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) is yet another possible side effect of Abilify use. You may face an increased risk of symptoms, including fatigue, blurred vision, lightheadedness, and nausea or vomiting. If you experience these symptoms while taking Abilify, contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation and treatment.
3. Low blood pressure: Low blood pressure (hypotension) can occur with Abilify due to its ability to affect the body's regulation of fluids and electrolytes. Symptoms may include dizziness when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position and lightheadedness or fainting spells. Contact your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms of low blood pressure so they can adjust your dosage accordingly if needed.

Serious Side Effects of Abilify

Some of the side effects from Abilify can be severe and should be considered before taking the drug.

"Always discuss with your clinician the possibility of negative side effects, as Abilify can have serious side effects that include but are not limited to suicidal thoughts and behaviors and issues with movement, breathing, heartbeat, and high fever."

Talkspace therapist Elizabeth Keohan, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW

1. Seizures

Seizures are a rare but potentially dangerous side effect of Abilify. It's important to talk to your doctor if you have a history of seizures or epilepsy before taking this medication. If you experience any seizure-like symptoms while on Abilify, contact your doctor immediately.

2. Involuntary muscle movements (Tardive dyskinesia)

Involuntary muscle movements can occur with Abilify use. They may include tremors or twitching of the face or tongue, shuffling gait, stiffness in the arms and legs, mask-like facial expressions, and jerking motions of the arms and legs. Let your doctor know immediately if you experience involuntary muscle movements while on Abilify.

3. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)

NMS is a rare but life-threatening condition that can occur when certain medications, such as Abilify, affect dopamine levels in the brain too much. Symptoms of NMS include fever, rigid muscles, confusion, irregular pulse rate, sweating, and changes in blood pressure.

Additionally, rapid heart rate and increased creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) levels may be present, which can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. It's vital that you share with your doctor if you develop any unusual signs or symptoms while taking this medication.

4. Suicidal thoughts

Antipsychotics like Abilify can cause an increase in suicidal thoughts. Family members should closely monitor a loved one during treatment with this medication for any signs of worsening mood swings or suicidal thoughts. This is particularly important at the start of therapy, when dosage adjustments are more likely to occur.

5. Impulse control disorders

Abilify is associated with impulse control issues like compulsive gambling behavior. It can affect physical functioning and cognitive processes involved in decision-making, which could lead someone down a dangerous path.

Managing Abilify Side Effects

"Negative side effects can be alarming while prompting the urge to stop taking your prescriptions. It is important to consult with your doctor first to understand best how to do so safely. Together, you can discuss and develop a treatment plan that's careful to ensure safe titration."‍

Talkspace therapist Elizabeth Keohan, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW

To manage the potential common side effects associated with taking Abilify, try:

• Eating smaller meals throughout the day to reduce nausea
• Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
• Exercising regularly to maintain energy levels despite fatigue from insomnia
• Avoiding alcohol consumption as it increases feelings of restlessness or agitation due to a depressant effect on brain activity
• Monitoring blood sugar levels closely if hypoglycemia is suspected
• Keeping an eye on cholesterol levels in case hyperlipidemia is present

If side effects become difficult to manage, your healthcare provider may recommend adjusting your dosage or exploring other treatment options and Abilify alternatives.

Abilify Withdrawal and Discontinuation Side Effects

Stopping Abilify suddenly can sometimes cause uncomfortable Abilify withdrawal symptoms, especially if you’ve been taking it for a long time. That’s why it’s important to work closely with your psychiatric provider before making any changes to your dosage.

Tapering process

Your psychiatric provider will usually recommend slowly lowering your dose over time instead of stopping Abilify all at once. This process, called tapering, gives your brain and body time to adjust and may help reduce withdrawal symptoms or the return of mental health symptoms. How long tapering takes depends on several factors, including your dosage, how long you’ve been taking Abilify, the condition being treated, and how your body responds during the process.

Withdrawal symptoms

Some people notice symptoms within a few days of reducing their dose. According to the FDA, common withdrawal or discontinuation symptoms of Abilify can include insomnia, nausea, headaches, dizziness, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, sweating, tremors, and difficulty concentrating.

Certain side effects may also continue during treatment changes. In long-term FDA studies involving people taking Abilify for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, tremor was reported in some patients, though many cases were mild and temporary.

Children and teens taking Abilify may experience different side effects depending on the condition being treated. In pediatric studies per the FDA, commonly reported reactions included fatigue, tremor, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, drooling, and increased appetite. Adults taking Abilify alongside antidepressants for major depressive disorder commonly reported restlessness, insomnia, constipation, fatigue, and blurred vision, per the FDA.

Managing discontinuation

Staying in close contact with your psychiatric provider during the tapering process can help you manage symptoms safely and comfortably. If anything feels severe, persistent, or concerning, let them know right away.

It can also help to maintain regular sleep habits, stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, and avoid alcohol while discontinuing Abilify. Tracking your symptoms in a journal may also help you identify patterns or decide whether your tapering schedule needs adjustment.

See if Abilify is Right for You with Talkspace Psychiatry

If you’re concerned about Abilify side effects, talking with a licensed psychiatric provider can help you better understand the potential benefits and risks of treatment. They can review your symptoms, medical history, and current medications, and prescribe Abilify online if it is an appropriate option for you.

With Talkspace psychiatry, you can connect with a licensed online psychiatric provider from home for evaluations, prescription management, and ongoing medication support. If prescribed, your psychiatric provider can also help monitor side effects, adjust your dosage if needed, and guide you safely through any medication changes over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do Abilify side effects last?

Most common side effects of Abilify improve within the first few weeks of treatment as your body adjusts. Nausea, headaches, and dizziness typically decrease after 7 to 14 days. If side effects persist beyond two weeks or worsen, contact your psychiatric provider for dosage adjustments.

Do side effects differ between Abilify tablets and injections?

Yes, the side effects of Abilify (aripiprazole) can differ between tablets and injections. While both forms share common effects such as nausea, dizziness, or insomnia, injections may also cause injection-site reactions, and the timing or intensity of side effects can vary due to the slower, extended release of the medication.

Can Abilify side effects be permanent?

Most Abilify side effects resolve after stopping the medication. However, tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements) can become permanent in rare cases, especially with long-term use. Early detection and prompt treatment adjustment reduce this risk.  

What are the most common reasons people stop taking Abilify?

The most common reasons people stop taking Abilify (aripiprazole) include side effects such as weight gain, insomnia, restlessness, or nausea. Additionally, some may discontinue if they feel the medication isn't effectively managing their symptoms or due to concerns about long-term effects.

How can I tell if an Abilify side effect is serious?

A side effect of Abilify (aripiprazole) may be serious if it involves symptoms such as severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), uncontrollable movements (tardive dyskinesia), unusual mood changes, or signs of high fever and stiffness (which could indicate neuroleptic malignant syndrome). Any sudden, severe, or persistent symptom should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.

Sources

1. ÜÇOK ALP, GAEBEL WOLFGANG. Side effects of atypical antipsychotics: A brief overview. World Psychiatry. 2008;7(1):58-62. doi:10.1002/j.2051-5545.2008.tb00154.x. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2327229/. Accessed February 10, 2023.
2. Dayabandara M, Hanwella R, Ratnatunga S, Seneviratne S, Suraweera C, de Silva V. Antipsychotic-associated weight gain: Management strategies and impact on treatment adherence. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. 2017;Volume 13:2231-2241. doi:10.2147/ndt.s113099. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5574691/. Accessed February 10, 2023.
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. ABILIFY (aripiprazole) prescribing information. 2019. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/021436s044s045,021713s035s036,021729s027s028,021866s029s030lbl.pdf Accessed May 29th, 2026.

Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.

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