The drug has been linked to impulse control issues – gambling, binge eating or compulsive eating, compulsive shopping and hypersexuality – among some of its users. Many people use it without incident and are aware of what types of side effects they might experience.Ībilify’s makers have been less forthcoming about other serious side effects, however. The ProblemĪlthough these side effects mean the drug should be administered with caution, Health Canada’s 2009 review of data on quality, safety and efficacy of Abilify resulted in a favourable benefit/risk profile. People suffering from dementia related psychosis and pediatric patients with depression are also warned not to take the drug as it has been found to increase their risk of death. Other particularly serious side effects have been found to include: neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia), high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and diabetes, orthostatic hypotension (decreased blood pressure), low white blood cell count, seizures (convulsions), strokes in the elderly. In children, other common side effects include: feeling sleepy, increased or decreased appetite, weight gain, increased saliva or drooling, tremor, and muscle stiffness. The most common in adults are: nausea and/or vomiting, constipation, upper respiratory illness, dizziness, blurred vision, headache, anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness (akathisia). Side Effects of AbilifyĬlinical studies have found many side effects associated with Abilify. Abilify’s use has skyrocketed since that time, with yearly prescriptions increasing from an estimated 3,000 in 2010 to over 1 million by 2013. In 2009, Health Canada approved the drug for use in treating schizophrenia and bipolar (Type I) in people 13 years of age or older. Abilify is also often prescribed “off label” to treat conditions such as anxiety disorders, ADHD, and general depression. Since 2002 health agencies around the globe have approved the drug to treat major depression, bipolar disorder (Type I), Tourette’s syndrome, and irritability related to autism. Initially approved to treat schizophrenia, the drug’s unique ability to adjust dopamine and serotonin levels rather than just blocking the brain’s receptors to these chemicals, made it a promising contender to treat other conditions. Often used in combination with other medicines, Abilify (the brand name for aripiprazole) is a second-generation, atypical anti-psychotic that balances and stabilizes dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. If you or a loved one is taking or has taken Abilify and has experienced harmful side effects associated with its use, HSH personal injury lawyer Paul Miller can help you to identify whether you may benefit from taking part in this legal action. This extremely troubling delay in issuing warnings is now the subject of a mass tort litigation in Canada (and a similar class action lawsuit in the United States). However, some serious side effects identified in medical studies and through self-reporting by users – notably an increase in compulsive behaviours – were not publicized by Abilify’s maker until it was compelled by federal health authorities. These warnings ensure everyone involved can make an informed decision about the drug’s benefits and risks and monitor for adverse reactions. Generally safe when administered and used properly, like most pharmaceuticals taking it is not without risks.Ībilify’s manufacturer has alerted medical professionals and potential users about many of its known possible side-affects. Abilify is one of the world’s most commonly prescribed drugs.
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