Aripiprazole
Also known as: Abilify
What it's for
Aripiprazole treats schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and as an add-on for depression. It works differently from other antipsychotics, often causing less weight gain.
Comes as: Tablets, orodispersible tablets, or liquid
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 10mg to 30mg once daily.
- Take at the same time each day.
- You can take it with or without food.
- Orodispersible tablets dissolve on your tongue.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Restlessness or inability to sit still
- Headache
- Feeling sick
- Drowsiness or difficulty sleeping
- Anxiety
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Restlessness is common when starting - usually improves
- Less likely to cause weight gain than some others but still possible
- May affect blood sugar levels
- Do not stop suddenly
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have a high temperature with muscle stiffness and confusion
- You have severe restlessness or agitation
- You have thoughts of harming yourself
- You have uncontrolled movements
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.