From the FDA Drug Label
Dosage increases should generally not be made before 2 weeks, the time needed to achieve steady-state Subsequent dose increases should be administered in 5 mg increments.
The next dose up of Abilify from 2 mg would be 5 mg or 7 mg, but since the label specifies increments of 5 mg, the most appropriate next dose would be 5 mg or possibly staying at 2 mg for at least 2 weeks to achieve steady-state, then considering an increase by 5 mg increments if necessary 1.
From the Research
The next dose up of Abilify (aripiprazole) from 2 mg is typically 5 mg, as this is a common dose increment used in clinical practice. When increasing Abilify dosage, healthcare providers usually follow standardized dose increments, with 5 mg being the next common step after 2 mg. This increase should only be made under medical supervision, as your doctor needs to evaluate your response to the current dose and any side effects you may be experiencing. The dosage adjustment depends on your specific condition, treatment response, and tolerance. Abilify works by affecting dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, and dosage changes can significantly impact these neurotransmitter systems. You should take the medication at the same time each day for consistent blood levels. If you experience new or worsening side effects after increasing the dose, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Never adjust your medication dose without consulting your doctor first, as improper dosing can affect treatment efficacy and safety. According to a recent study 2, brexpiprazole, a related medication, has been shown to be effective in reducing symptom severity in adolescents with schizophrenia, with a mean dose of 3.0 mg at the last visit, but this does not directly inform the dosing of aripiprazole.
Some key points to consider when increasing the dose of Abilify include:
- The medication should be taken at the same time each day for consistent blood levels
- The dosage adjustment depends on the individual's specific condition, treatment response, and tolerance
- Abilify can affect dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, and dosage changes can significantly impact these neurotransmitter systems
- If new or worsening side effects occur after increasing the dose, the healthcare provider should be contacted promptly
- Improper dosing can affect treatment efficacy and safety, so dosage adjustments should only be made under medical supervision.
It's also worth noting that other studies have discussed the pharmacological profile and clinical use of aripiprazole 3, 4, 5, but these do not provide direct guidance on the next dose increment from 2 mg. Additionally, a case report on the safety and efficacy of aripiprazole for depression in Brugada syndrome 6 does not inform the dosing of aripiprazole in this context.