From the Guidelines
Abilify (aripiprazole) is used to treat a range of conditions including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder, and Tourette's syndrome. The primary use of Abilify is for managing symptoms of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13 and older, including hallucinations and disorganized thinking 1. In bipolar disorder, it is used to treat manic or mixed episodes, either alone or with mood stabilizers, as noted in studies on treatment interventions for bipolar disorder in youths 1. For depression, Abilify is used as an add-on treatment when antidepressants alone are not effective, highlighting its role in augmenting antidepressant therapy 1. Additionally, it is approved to treat irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder in children aged 6-17 and for Tourette's syndrome in children aged 6-18, demonstrating its application in managing symptoms beyond traditional psychiatric disorders 1. The mechanism of action of Abilify, which involves partial activation of dopamine receptors, contributes to its efficacy in balancing neurotransmitter activity in the brain, a key aspect of its therapeutic effect 1. Dosing of Abilify varies by condition, typically starting at lower doses and gradually increasing as needed, with regular monitoring for side effects like weight gain, metabolic changes, and movement disorders, underscoring the importance of careful management and monitoring in its use 1. Given the evidence from recent studies, including those published in prestigious journals such as the BMJ 1 and the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1, the use of Abilify is supported for these conditions, with consideration for its unique mechanism of action and the need for careful dosing and monitoring. Key considerations in the use of Abilify include its efficacy in managing symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, its role as an adjunctive treatment in depression, and its application in treating irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder and Tourette's syndrome, all of which are supported by evidence from clinical studies 1. In clinical practice, the selection of Abilify as a treatment option should be guided by its approved indications, the patient's specific clinical profile, and the potential for side effects, with ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimize adverse effects 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Aripiprazole oral tablets are indicated for the treatment of: • Schizophrenia [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1)]
The conditions treated with Abilify (Aripiprazole) include Schizophrenia 2.
From the Research
Conditions Treated with Abilify (Aripiprazole)
Abilify (Aripiprazole) is used to treat various conditions, including:
- Schizophrenia in adults 3, 4
- Schizoaffective disorder 3, 4
- Mania associated with bipolar I disorder 5, 6
- Major depressive disorder as adjunctive therapy 7
- Bipolar disorder, including prevention of manic relapse 5, 6
Specific Uses
- Treatment of acute relapse of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder 3, 4
- Maintenance treatment of schizophrenia 3, 4
- Treatment of acute mania 5, 6
- Prevention of manic relapse in patients with bipolar I disorder 6
- Adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder 7
Efficacy and Tolerability
- Aripiprazole has been shown to be effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and mania associated with bipolar I disorder 3, 5, 6, 4
- It has a favorable profile in terms of a low potential for bodyweight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms, and metabolic disturbances 3, 6, 4