What side effects require special attention for Abilify users?
Abilify, also known as aripiprazole, is a medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. As with any medication, it carries a risk of serious side effects that require special attention. According to the FDA, [1] Abilify has been linked to several black box warnings, which indicate the most severe and potentially life-threatening risks associated with the medication.
What are the potential side effects that need special attention?
Abilify has been associated with increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, as well as an increased risk of stroke in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. In young adults and adolescents being treated for schizophrenia or bipolar mania, Abilify may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Additionally, Abilify has been linked to an increased risk of extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia, particularly in elderly patients or those with a history of brain damage.
What steps can patients and caregivers take to manage these risks?
To minimize the risk of these serious side effects, patients taking Abilify should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider, particularly elderly patients or those with a history of brain damage. Regular check-ups should include assessments for suicidal thoughts or behaviors, extrapyramidal symptoms, and tardive dyskinesia. Patients may also experience increased body temperature, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
What resources are available to help manage these risks?
The FDA provides guidelines for healthcare providers and patients on managing these serious side effects, including [2] recommendations for monitoring and addressing increased body temperature. Healthcare providers should also follow recommendations from the American Association of Neurology on managing extrapyramidal symptoms and tardive dyskinesia.
What resources provide additional guidance on Abilify's risks and benefits?
In addition to the FDA, resources such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provide information on the risks and benefits of Abilify, as well as alternatives to this medication for managing schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. The prescribing information for Abilify, provided by Pfizer, the manufacturer, contains detailed information on the risks and benefits associated with this medication.
Citations:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com - Abilify.
[2] FDA. (2015). Aripiprazole: Prescribing Information.
Additional Resources:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Schizophrenia.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Bipolar Disorder.