Abilify

Precautions to keep in mind

It is very important that your healthcare professional check you at regular visits to allow for changes in your dose and help reduce any unwanted effects.

This medicine may add to the effects of alcohol and other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates; medicine for seizures; muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any CNS depressants while you are taking this medicine.

Aripiprazole may cause drowsiness, trouble in thinking, or trouble in controlling movements. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do other jobs that require you to be alert, well-coordinated, or able to think well.

If you experience difficulty swallowing or extreme sleepiness (especially if you are an older adult taking this medicine for psychosis [mental disturbances] related to dementia), contact your doctor immediately. It could increase your risk for serious unwanted effects.

This medicine may make it more difficult for your body to cool itself down. Use care not to become overheated during exercise or hot weather since overheating may result in heat stroke.

For diabetic patients: This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. Also, the oral solution contains sugar.