Can Abilify (aripiprazole) cause dizziness?

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From the FDA Drug Label

Aripiprazole tablets may make you sleepy or dizzy, may cause a decrease in your blood pressure when changing position and can slow your thinking and motor skills which may lead to falls that can cause fractures or other injuries The most common side effects of aripiprazole tablets in adults include: ... dizziness Orthostatic hypotension (decreased blood pressure): Lightheadedness or fainting may happen when rising too quickly from a sitting or lying position. Post-marketing case reports suggest that patients can experience ... postural dizziness

Yes, Abilify (aripiprazole) can cause dizziness, as it may lead to orthostatic hypotension, decreased blood pressure when changing position, and is listed as one of the common side effects in adults. 1 1

From the Research

Yes, Abilify (aripiprazole) can cause dizziness as a side effect, as reported in a case study published in 2013 2. Dizziness is considered a common side effect of this medication, affecting people who take it. This side effect often occurs when starting the medication or after increasing the dose, and typically improves as your body adjusts to the medication over time. The dizziness happens because aripiprazole affects neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which can temporarily impact blood pressure regulation and balance. Some key points to consider about dizziness caused by Abilify include:

  • It is a known side effect, as seen in studies such as the one published in 2003 3 and 2009 4.
  • The incidence of dizziness can vary, but it is generally reported to occur in a significant portion of patients, as noted in the 2009 study 4.
  • If you experience dizziness while taking Abilify, it's essential to be careful with activities requiring alertness such as driving or operating machinery.
  • To minimize dizziness, consider taking the medication at bedtime, rising slowly from sitting or lying positions, and staying well-hydrated.
  • If the dizziness is severe, persistent, or significantly interferes with daily activities, contact your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your dosage or consider alternative treatments, as suggested by the case report in 2023 5 and the literature review in 2019 6.

References

Research

Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone associated with aripiprazole.

American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 2013

Research

Aripiprazole.

American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 2003

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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