[Maxima]

I've only recently started medication and the first thing my psychiatrist gave me was Abilify. I'm a little concerned because I've heard really bad things about Abilify and that it should only be used as a last resort. Is it really that bad? Should it be only used as a last resort?

[sweepy62]

I have been on abilify the only bad side effect for me is hunger I'm now on 20 mg because I was manic recently

[Sometimes psychotic]

If it's of last resort then its only because it does not work for everyone and because its pricey compared to antipsychotics which have generics available. Its not bad at all. In my case it has way less side effects than seroquel or risperidone.

It actually works differently than most antipsychotics which block the dopamine receptor, because it both blocks and activates the same receptor. This is actually why it both doesn't always work for everyone and tends to have a better side effect profile when it does work. Its just slightly different.

By the way the medication of last resort is clozapine which can decrease your white blood cells. You have to be tested all the time so you don't die. Nice huh? Its very effective for treatment resistant cases though so its still used.

[DePressMe]

I was on abilify for several years. I thought I was not having side effects but when I had to stop it I realized how horrible it was. It blunted my emotions--my world turned grey--lost my creativity..i regret losing so much of my life to abilify.

However, it works diferently on each person. maybe you try it and keeptrack of your side effects....good luck.......D.