Abilify Side Effects. Abilify is a medication used to treat the symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions. It treats acute manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder.
There are various known side effects of taking Abilify in treating different mental conditions. Side effects may range from mild to severe symptoms. It can also affect you physically and sexually. Here’s more information about the possible side effects of it on your sexual health.
Abilify Sexual Side Effects
It is typically triggers an increase in prolactin levels and reduces libido in women, leading to decreased sexual desire, difficulty becoming aroused, and an inability to reach orgasm. Due to rising prolactin hormones, some women may also experience abnormal breast growth and development. Additionally, you may also experience irregular menstruation in the course of the Abilify medication.
Hence, women should take the lowest dose of Abilify and avoid taking the medication with other medications that have this effect on libido to minimize such adverse side effects.
Common Abilify Side Effects
The following are some common Abilify negative effects:
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- drowsiness
- weakness
- lightheadedness
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- tiredness
- drooling
- trouble swallowing
- fuzzy vision
- headache
- anxiety
- weight gain
- drowsiness
- insomnia
- constipation
Serious Side Effects
On the other hand, the following are more serious Abilify adverse effects:
- tardive dyskinesia or involuntary, repetitive movements
- neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- tremors
- muscle spasms
- fainting
- mental/mood changes
- difficulty swallowing
- restlessness
- seizures
- signs of infection
Drug List That May Cause Negative Interaction With Abilify
Take note of these medications, which can cause a negative interaction when taking Abilify. It is essential not to take Abilify at the same time with the following:
- cold or allergy medicine
- narcotic pain medicine
- sleeping pills
- muscle relaxers
- medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety
- medications to treat high blood pressure or a heart condition
- carbamazepine
- phenobarbital
- phenytoin
- rifabutin
- rifampin
- ketoconazole
- itraconazole
- quinidine
- fluoxetine
- fluvoxamine
- paroxetine
How To Deal With Abilify Side Effects?
If you experience side effects from Abilify, you can minimize them by following the instructions listed on your prescription label. If you feel fatigue or dizziness while taking Abilify, you should rest and drink plenty of fluids until you feel better.
If you have a dry mouth while taking Abilify, you can help minimize the effect by sipping water while you are awake and before you go to bed. You should also brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with water before bed.
If your blood sugar increases while taking Abilify, you should eat a small snack before bed.
You may experience mood changes while taking Abilify. In that case talk to your doctor or request your prescriber to change your medication. Always contact your doctor immediately if any of these side effects worsen.
