Abilify

Generic Name: aripiprazole (ah rih PIP rah zole)

Brand name: abilify

Drug interactions:

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) can markedly decrease the amount of aripiprazole in the body by increasing the rate at which the body's enzymes (particularly the liver enzyme, CYP3A4.) degrade it. The manufacturer recommends that patients on aripiprazole who are started on carbamazepine double their dose of aripiprazole, under their doctor's supervision. Other drugs that can promote the activity of CYP3A4 and decrease the body's levels of aripiprazole are phenytoin (Dilantin), rifampin, and phenobarbital.

The most important information you should know about Abilify:

Aripiprazole is not for use in psychotic conditions that are related to dementia. Aripiprazole has caused fatal heart attack and stroke in older adults with dementia-related conditions. Stop using aripiprazole and call your doctor at once if you have the following symptoms: fever with stiff muscles and rapid heart rate; uncontrolled muscle movements; symptoms that come on suddenly such as numbness or weakness, severe headache, and problems with vision, speech, or balance. Aripiprazole can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of aripiprazole. Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by aripiprazole. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather and during exercise. It is easier to become dangerously overheated and dehydrated while you are taking aripiprazole.