From the Research
Stopping Aripiprazole (Abilify) 20mg abruptly may cause withdrawal symptoms within 5 days, including insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, irritability, nausea, dizziness, headaches, and in some cases, the return of symptoms the medication was treating. If you've stopped taking Abilify, contact your healthcare provider immediately as discontinuation should be done gradually under medical supervision 1. Withdrawal symptoms occur because your brain has adapted to the medication's effects on dopamine and serotonin receptors, and sudden removal creates a neurochemical imbalance. The severity of symptoms depends on how long you've been taking the medication and your individual physiology.
Some key points to consider:
- Aripiprazole is a well-tolerated antipsychotic with a low incidence of extrapyramidal symptoms and metabolic adverse effects 1
- The medication has a unique mechanism of action, acting as a partial agonist at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, and an antagonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors 2
- Abrupt discontinuation of aripiprazole can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be minimized by gradual tapering under medical supervision 1
- If experiencing severe symptoms like extreme agitation, confusion, fever, or suicidal thoughts, seek emergency medical attention
It's essential to note that the evidence suggests aripiprazole is generally well-tolerated, but discontinuation should still be done with caution and under medical supervision to minimize potential withdrawal effects 1. Never stop psychiatric medications without consulting your doctor, as they can create a tapering schedule to minimize withdrawal effects and monitor your condition during the transition.