Abilify

Before taking this medicine

Do not take Abilify if you have previously had an allergic reaction to aripiprazole. Reactions can include itching, hives or anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Conditions that require caution include: • Dementia-related psychosis in older adults, because of an increased risk of stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA), including fatal events. • Diabetes or risk factors for diabetes. Blood glucose should be monitored regularly. Weight gain and changes in blood fats can also occur, and weight should be monitored. • Heart or blood vessel disease, dehydration or a risk of fainting. Abilify can cause a fall in blood pressure when standing; heart rate and blood pressure may need monitoring. • A history of significantly low white blood cell counts or low counts caused by medicines. Frequent blood counts are needed during the first few months of treatment. • A history of seizures or conditions that increase seizure risk. • A high risk of suicide, which requires close supervision. Other important risks include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which requires immediate discontinuation and close monitoring, and tardive dyskinesia, which causes involuntary movements and may require stopping treatment. New or worsening gambling urges or other compulsive behaviours may also require a treatment change. These decisions should be made by the prescriber. Use caution when operating machinery because Abilify may affect thinking and movement. Exposure during the third trimester of pregnancy may cause movement-related or withdrawal symptoms in newborns. During breastfeeding, the infant should be monitored for dehydration and inadequate weight gain.