Switching Abilify (Aripiprazole) from Bedtime to Morning Dose
Yes, you can safely switch Abilify from a bedtime dose to a morning dose after 12 hours, but it's best to take your next dose in the morning rather than taking two doses within 12 hours.
Understanding Aripiprazole Pharmacology
Aripiprazole (Abilify) has several pharmacological properties that make switching from evening to morning dosing feasible:
- Long half-life of approximately 75 hours 1
- Steady-state plasma concentrations achieved after 14 days of consistent dosing 2
- Accumulation occurs over time, with 4-fold greater concentrations after 14 days compared to day 1 2
Safe Approach to Switching Dosing Time
Recommended Method:
- Skip the evening dose you would normally take
- Take your next dose in the morning (approximately 24 hours after your last dose)
- Continue with morning dosing thereafter
Why This Works:
- The long 75-hour half-life of aripiprazole means blood levels remain relatively stable even with a 12-hour shift in dosing time 2
- Taking two doses within 12 hours could potentially increase side effects without providing additional therapeutic benefit
Potential Benefits of Morning Dosing
Some evidence suggests morning dosing of aripiprazole may have metabolic advantages:
- Patients taking aripiprazole at night showed decreased HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) compared to morning dosing 3
- A trend toward higher triglycerides was observed with nighttime dosing 3
Considerations When Switching
- Monitor for any changes in side effects with the new dosing schedule
- Some patients may experience different side effect profiles with morning versus evening dosing
- If insomnia was previously managed by bedtime dosing, be aware this benefit may be lost with morning dosing
When to Consult Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Significant changes in side effects after switching
- Worsening of your condition
- Any concerns about the effectiveness of the medication with the new schedule
The long half-life of aripiprazole (75 hours) provides flexibility in dosing time, making a 12-hour shift in administration time pharmacologically reasonable without significant risk of decreased efficacy or increased side effects.