[*Beth*]

I was on 10mg Abilify and felt more stable. Pdoc raised dose to 15mg. last week. For the past 2 days I've had some paranoia...it seems associated with fans...feeling a creepy sensation that there's someone inside of the fan watching me (I know, sounds kinda funny, but it is so darn unsettling).

Today it's happening with other objects. Feels like they're watching me. Not necessarily with bad intentions, but I don't like the sensation.

I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced something like paranoia from a higher Abilify dose?

[*Beth*]

Never mind. I can't live with this. Paranoia, zoned out, I wouldn't even try to drive, feeling this way. I cannot wake up; pretty much all I've managed today is to sleep. Tried to take a walk and made it 1/4 of a block...off-balance and just felt absolutely weird, near to passing out. Plus wanting to eat everything in sight (don't normally feel that).

Dropping the dosage back to 10mg tonight. Will go to bed early and hopefully sleep this off.

May I ask why your dosage was increased?

There is nothing wrong with sleeping when your body needs sleep. or not driving after a med increase. Don't let those fans get to you. Go for a walk tomorrow morning.

Paranoia is usually caused by un underlying fear or suspicious feeling. It shouldn't be effected by your meds.

It is likely your body will adjust to the meds but I would call my Dr before my next dose to be sure.

[*Beth*]

Hi Ann Bog, thank you for your input.

Pdoc increased dosage because I've been more stable, mind quieter. Well yeah - it's so quiet I feel half-dead. I agree about the sleeping, it becomes a problem when I can't work (my work in on the computer) and when I feel so unmotivated I can't do art. That's when "sleep" turns to the start of depression.

I was thinking that the sudden paranoia might be a result of the Abilify, a drug that can be activating and cause mania.

Anyway, dropped the dose last night and feel better. Seems 10mg is sufficient.

[fern46]

Originally Posted by BethRags

Hi Ann Bog, thank you for your input.

Pdoc increased dosage because I've been more stable, mind quieter. Well yeah - it's so quiet I feel half-dead. I agree about the sleeping, it becomes a problem when I can't work (my work in on the computer) and when I feel so unmotivated I can't do art. That's when "sleep" turns to the start of depression.

I was thinking that the sudden paranoia might be a result of the Abilify, a drug that can be activating and cause mania.

Anyway, dropped the dose last night and feel better. Seems 10mg is sufficient.

I agree the paranoia could be med related. The timing is suspicious. I have experienced meds causing mental issues. Risperdal caused anxiety for me. I'd go with your instinct especially if paranoia isn't a symptom you regularly experience.

[*Beth*]

Thanks, fern. It was the 4th day of the higher dose when the paranoia kicked in. I haven't had any paranoia for several months and when I did, I was climbing up the mania ladder. So the chance of the Abilify causing the paranoia seems obvious to me. I already feel better today...clear-minded, no blurred vision. I would feel totally safe to drive.

[bpcyclist]

That is very interesting, BethRags. I was on 30 mg for quite awhile and I never saw it as paranoia-exacerbating or -inducing. And I have lots of problems with paranoia. Let us know how you go. I hope you are feeling better!!

[Sometimes psychotic]

I had this experience with another AP, risperdal....2mg was the best and 3mg I had more psychosis. Glad you’re feeling better after the reduction.

[*Beth*]

Yesterday I was nauseated, mildly paranoid, depressed, and absolutely exhausted from the Abilify - also easily angered. Nearly got into an argument with a woman in a parking lot.

I'm pretty positive I'm done with the stuff. I've given it a month and it has been a very rough go. Didn't take it last night and already feel much improved.

[still_crazy]

antipsychotics/neuroleptics aren't all they're cracked up to be. honestly, just from a long-term safety standpoint...most people who can find some way to live without them probably should.

[bpcyclist]

It seems like everyone has their own experience with these antipsychotics. I sure hope you find something that causes fewer side effects!!

[*Beth*]

I have traditionally had a rough time with AP's. I have no doubt that many people really do need them. The damage they do is, however, significant. I am hoping to be able to function with an AP or, at the most takw 12.5 Seroquel to make me sleep, rether than stay up all night making jewelry or rearranding my bedroom