Understanding Abilify Dosage: Forms, Potencies, Methods of Administration, and Associated Information

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Understanding Abilify Dosage: Forms, Potencies, Methods of Administration, and Associated Information

Abilify, sold under the brand name aripiprazole, is a medication utilized for various mental health conditions in both adults and certain children.The drug is usually administered as an oral tablet, taken once daily, with the dosage varying depending on the condition being treated. Different forms of Abilify are available under different brand names, such as:

  • oral tablet (Abilify)
  • oral tablet with sensor (Abilify MyCite)
  • extended-release intramuscular injection given by a healthcare professional (Abilify Maintena, Abilify Asimtufii)

Abilify is approved for the treatment of several conditions, including:

  • major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly known as depression, in adults
  • schizophrenia in adults and children between 13 and 17 years old
  • Tourette syndrome in children between 6 and 18 years old
  • irritability related to autism spectrum disorder in children between 6 and 17 years old
  • mania and mixed episodes due to bipolar I disorder in adults and children between 10 and 17 years old

Abilify MyCite, Abilify Maintena, and Abilify Asimtufii are approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults. Abilify MyCite is also approved for the treatment of MDD in adults.

Abilify falls under the drug class called antipsychotics. The oral tablet version of Abilify is available in a generic form called aripiprazole. However, the extended-release injection versions (Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii) do not have generic alternatives.

For more detailed information about Abilify dosage, including its strengths and usage, check out this article. It's essential to note that the dosage prescribed by your doctor will depend on your specific condition and individual factors.

Note: The dosages described in this text are typical and provided by Abilify's manufacturer. If your doctor prescribes a different dosage, always follow their instructions.

Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii are extended-release injections that slowly release the active drug into your body over time. For specific details on their dosages and differences, see the "Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing" section below.

Abilify dosage

This section provides a summary of the dosages for Abilify and Abilify MyCite tablets. For information on the typical dosing for Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii, see the "Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing" section below.

There’s no standard or average dosage of Abilify. Your doctor will base your dosage on your specific condition and other individual factors. For more details on these factors, see the "Factors that affect your dosage" section below.

Abilify forms

Condition

Abilify is available in various forms, including:

  • oral tablet (Abilify)
  • oral tablet with sensor (Abilify MyCite)
  • extended-release intramuscular injection given by a healthcare professional (Abilify Maintena, Abilify Asimtufii)

For more information on the extended-release injection versions (Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii), see the "Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing" section below.

Starting dosage of Abilify or Abilify MyCite

Abilify strengths (2 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg)

Abilify is available in the following strengths:

  • 2 milligrams (mg)
  • 5 mg
  • 10 mg
  • 15 mg
  • 20 mg
  • 30 mg

Maintenance dosage of Abilify or Abilify MyCite

Typical dosages

Usually, your doctor will begin with a low dosage before gradually adjusting it to find the optimal dosage for your needs.

The following information covers commonly used or recommended dosages for Abilify and Abilify MyCite in adults. However, always take the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Maximum dosage of either drug

Abilify dosages for bipolar I disorder, schizophrenia, and depression in adults

The table below provides an overview of typical dosages for Abilify and Abilify MyCite based on the condition being treated.

Based on your response to treatment, your healthcare provider might enhance your initial dosage. They'll establish your long-term (maintenance) dose based on how you react to treatment.

Here's a table detailing the typical dosages for Abilify or Abilify MyCite for various conditions:

| | Initial Dosage of Abilify or Abilify MyCite | Maintenance Dosage of Abilify or Abilify MyCite | Maximum Dosage of Either Drug || --- | --- | --- | --- || Major Depressive Disorder | 2 mg to 5 mg per day | 5 mg to 10 mg per day | 15 mg per day || Schizophrenia | 10 mg to 15 mg per day | 10 mg to 15 mg per day | 30 mg per day || Bipolar I Disorder | 15 mg per day (when used alone) or 10 mg to 15 mg per day (when used with lithium or valproate) | 15 mg per day | 30 mg per day |

If you have doubts regarding your Abilify or Abilify MyCite dosage, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

major depressive disorder

Pediatric Dosages

Abilify is approved to treat certain conditions in children. Below are the normal dosages for Abilify in children. Your child's doctor will decide the best dosage for your child's condition. If you have concerns about your child's dosage, speak with their doctor or pharmacist.

Dosage for Bipolar I Disorder in Children

2 mg to 5 mg per day

Abilify is approved to treat Bipolar I Disorder in children between 10 and 17 years. When used alone or in combination with lithium or valproate, the starting dose of Abilify is 2 mg once per day.

After 2 days of treatment, your child's doctor might boost the dosage for your child to 5 mg once per day. After another 2 days, they might boost your child's dosage to 10 mg once per day. This would be the maintenance (long-term) dosage.

Your child's doctor might increase the Abilify dosage by 5 mg per day to a maximum dosage of 30 mg per day.

5 mg to 10 mg per day

Dosage for Schizophrenia in Children

Abilify is approved to treat Schizophrenia in children between 13 and 17 years. The typical starting dosage is 2 mg once per day.

Your child's doctor might increase your child's dosage to 5 mg once per day after 2 days of treatment. Then, 2 days later, they'll typically increase the dosage to 10 mg once per day. This will be the maintenance dosage.

15 mg per day

Your child's doctor might continue to increase your child's dosage by 5 mg per day. This could be to a maximum dosage of 30 mg per day.

Dosage for Tourette Syndrome in Children

Abilify is approved to treat Tourette Syndrome in children between 6 and 18 years. For this use, the dosage is based on your child's weight in kilograms (kg). (1 kg is about 2.2 pounds [lb].)

The typical starting dosage for children weighing less than 50 kg (about 110 lb) is 2 mg once per day. After 2 days of treatment, your child's doctor will typically increase the dosage to 5 mg once per day.

If your child is still having symptoms after 1 week of treatment, their doctor may increase the dosage to 10 mg once per day. Your child's doctor will typically adjust your child's dosage slowly once per week until their symptoms are managed. The maximum dosage for this use is 10 mg once per day.

For children who weigh 50 kg (about 110 lb) or more, the starting dosage is 2 mg once per day. Then their doctor will increase the dose to 5 mg, to be taken for the next 5 days. They'll eventually increase the dose to reach 10 mg once per day by day 8 of treatment.

schizophrenia

If your child is still experiencing symptoms, their doctor may increase the dosage to a maximum of 20 mg once per day. They'll do this by slowly increasing the daily dose by 5 mg once per week.

Abilify is approved for use in children between 6 and 17 years with irritability related to autism spectrum disorder. The typical starting dosage for this use is 2 mg once per day.

10 mg to 15 mg per day

After 1 week, your child's doctor may increase your child's dosage to 5 mg once per day. If your child is still having symptoms, their doctor may increase the dosage to a maximum of 15 mg per day. They'll do this by slowly increasing your child's daily dose by 5 mg once per week.

Long-term Treatment

Abilify is meant to be used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Abilify is safe and effective for you, you'll likely take it long term. Your doctor will also monitor you during your treatment to determine whether you should still take the drug.

10 mg to 15 mg per day

Low-dose Abilify

Sometimes, a doctor may prescribe low-dose Abilify off-label to treat certain other conditions. Low-dose Abilify refers to taking a smaller dose of Abilify than typically prescribed. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is used for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.

Your physician might suggest a modest dose of aripiprazole, the main component in Abilify, for dealing with persistent fatigue syndrome or anxiety disorders. Though these conditions aren't approved uses for the drug, some studies show improvement with Abilify in conjunction with other anxiety medications. More research is required to establish appropriate dosages and effectiveness for these conditions. Consult your doctor for information on low dose Abilify and the optimal dosage for you.

30 mg per day

In relation to chronic fatigue syndrome, low dose aripiprazole has displayed potential for alleviating symptoms. Some evidence also suggests that Abilify, combined with anxiety medications, may lessen symptoms of anxiety accompanying mood disorders. However, more thorough studies are needed to identify suitable dosages and establish the drugs' effectiveness for these conditions.

If you have concerns about low dose Abilify, engage in a discussion with your doctor. They offer insights into its various uses and the optimal dosage tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you'll find answers to common questions regarding Abilify dosages.

Is there a maximum dose of Abilify?

Yes, the maximum dose or highest dosage of Abilify varies based on several factors, such as:

bipolar I disorder

  • the condition the drug is being used to treat
  • your response to treatment
  • age
  • medication form
  • presence of other medical conditions affecting medicine breakdown in the body

For comprehensive information on Abilify's maximum dosage and Abilify MyCite, refer to the "Abilify dosage" section above. For more specific details about Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing, see the "Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing" section below.

Your doctor will determine the optimal dosage to manage your condition while minimizing side effects. If you have questions regarding your dose, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

15 mg per day when used alone, or 10 mg to 15 mg per day when used with lithium or valproate

How do the dosages of Abilify and Aristada compare?

Both Abilify and Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil) are approved for schizophrenia treatment, falling into the antipsychotics drug class. While Abilify is available in oral and injectable forms, Aristada and Aristada Initio (a starting dose) are exclusively injectables delivered by a medical professional.

Here's a comparison table showing the typical maintenance dosages for schizophrenia treatment across both medications:

15 mg per day

| || --- || Regular maintenance (long-term) dosages for schizophrenia treatment || Abilify or Abilify MyCite | Abilify Maintena | Abilify Asimtufii | Aristada || • 10 mg to 15 mg tablet per day | • 400 mg injection per month, which may be lowered to 300 mg per month depending on response | • 960 mg injection every 2 months, which may be lowered to 720 mg every 2 months based on response | • 441 mg per month • 662 mg per month • 882 mg every 2 months or 6 weeks • 1,064 mg per month |

Learn more about Aristada dosages and how they differ from Abilify in this article. Your doctor can also provide information on the similarities and differences between Abilify and Aristada dosing.

* For more details on Abilify's dosages, see the "Abilify dosage" section above and the "Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing" section below.

30 mg per day

Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii dosing

Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii are extended-release intramuscular injections administered by a medical professional. Abilify Maintena is available as a powder mixed with liquid before injection, and as a prefilled single-dose syringe. Abilify Asimtufii is a liquid suspension provided in prefilled single-dose syringes.

Abilify Maintena dosing is once per month, with a starting dosage and maintenance (long-term) dosage of 400 mg per month. Your doctor may lower the dosage to 300 mg based on reaction to treatment. Doses above 400 mg per month have not been evaluated in clinical trials.

Abilify Asimtufii dosing is once every 2 months, with a starting dosage and maintenance dosage of 960 mg every 2 months. Your doctor may decrease the dosage to 720 mg depending on your response to treatment. The efficacy of dosages above 960 mg every 2 months is unknown.

You may switch from Abilify Maintena to Abilify Asimtufii based on your preference for fewer doctor visits. Additionally, you may be able to move from Abilify Maintena or Abilify Asimtufii to Abilify if your doctor recommends it.

Generally speaking, a 400 mg monthly dose of Abilify Maintena is equivalent to a daily 20 mg oral dose of Abilify. Similarly, a 300 mg monthly dose of Abilify Maintena equals a 15 mg daily oral dose of Abilify. In terms of Abilify Asimtufii, a 960 mg bi-monthly dose is roughly equivalent to a daily 20 mg oral dose of Abilify, and a 720 mg bi-monthly dose corresponds to a daily 15 mg oral dose of Abilify.

If you're contemplating switching from Abilify tablets to Abilify Maintena or Abilify Asimtufii injections, it's wise to consult with your physician. They can provide you with more details about the distinction in dosages between the medications.

Keep in mind that extended release implies that the active drug goes through a gradual release in your body over a given time span.

If you happen to miss your regular Abilify or Abilify MyCite tablet dose, simply take it as soon as you remember. However, be mindful of your next fixed Abilify dose. If it's approaching, skip the missed dose and resume your regular routine. Do not ever double dose to make up for a missed one as it might heighten your risk of side effects. For further information on Abilify's side effects, check out this source.

In case you fail to take your scheduled Abilify Maintena or Abilify Asimtufii dose, get in touch with your doctor's office immediately to reschedule your injection. Factors like the time elapsed since your last dose will impact your new dosing schedule, as advised by your physician.

To ensure you never missed a single dose, utilize medication reminders. This can be achieved by setting alarms or using a timer. Alternatively, you could download a reminder app on your smartphone.

Several factors will influence the Abilify dose your physician prescribes. These encompass:

Typical maintenance (long-term) dosages for schizophrenia treatment

  • the exact condition Abilify is intended to treat
  • the kind of Abilify you're using
  • your age
  • other medications you may be ingesting
  • other medical issues that might affect how Abilify responds in your body
  • your reaction to treatment

If your physician recommends adjusting your Abilify dose in response to certain medications, take note. Medications like CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers, and CYP2D6 inhibitors may have an impact on the level of Abilify in your body. As a result, they could weaken Abilify's efficacy or enhance your risk of experiencing drug side effects. Let your doctor know about any medications you're taking so their prescription can be tailored to your medication profile.

Learn more about potential drug interactions with Abilify here. For more information on Abilify's side effects, take a look at this source.

When it comes to Abilify and Swallowing, follow these guidelines:

  • Abilify and Abilify MyCite tablets are intended to be ingested by swallowing them whole.
  • Make sure not to crush, chew, or divide Abilify or Abilify MyCite tablets.
  • You can take Abilify or Abilify MyCite with or without food.

Abilify is typically prescribed to be used once daily. Despite this, the drug's manufacturer doesn't specify a particular time for consumption. Taking Abilify at approximately the same time each day can help maintain a steady level of the drug in your body, aiding in effective treatment.

Abilify or Abilify MyCite

If you encounter difficulty swallowing Abilify tablets, consult the following article for suggestions.

Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii are administered through injections.

  • Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufii injections are given at a healthcare facility such as a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital.
  • Abilify Maintena injections are administered into the deltoid (shoulder) or gluteal (buttock) muscle.
  • Abilify Asimtufii injections are administered into the gluteal muscle only.

Abilify Maintena

To receive your scheduled Abilify Maintena or Abilify Asimtufii doses, touch base with your physician. If you have any queries regarding your injection treatment, discuss them with your doctor.

It's crucial to understand that Abilify isn't known for misuse and isn't categorized as a controlled substance. Misuse refers to the use of a medication that is not prescribed for, or using it for reasons other than its intended purpose. Substances classified as controlled substances have an increased risk of physical dependence. With physical dependence, a person requires ingesting a certain substance to feel typical.

Different variants of Abilify haven't been thoroughly investigated in humans for inducing drug tolerance, physical dependency, or misuse. However, experimental studies on animals suggest that Abilify may lead to physical dependency in these subjects.

Abilify Asimtufii

If you've struggled with substance misuse or addiction previously, your physician may suggest an alternative medication. If they deem Abilify as the most suitable treatment for you, they'll pay closer attention to your condition.

If you have queries regarding Abilify and misuse, it's advisable to consult your healthcare provider. For more information on withdrawal and dependency, please refer to the "Abilify and withdrawal and dependence" section below.

* For a more in-depth exploration of Abilify's clinical trials, study the prescribing information for Abilify, Abilify MyCite, Abilify Maintena, and Abilify Asimtufii.

Aristada

Abilify and overdose

Taking greater than prescribed amounts of Abilify or Abilify MyCite tablets may result in severe side effects. It's essential to adhere to your doctor's prescribed dosage.

Symptoms of an overdose

Possible overdose symptoms of Abilify include:

  • drowsiness
  • shaking
  • vomiting

In case of an overdose

• 10 mg to 15 mg tablet once per day

If you suspect taking an excessive amount of Abilify, promptly contact your healthcare provider. Alternatively, you can contact America's Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or utilize its online tool. If you experience severe symptoms, immediately contact 911 or your local emergency number, or visit the nearest emergency room.

Abilify and withdrawal and dependence

Whether Abilify causes physical dependence in humans remains unclear. Physical dependence occurs when your body becomes accustomed to taking a particular substance to feel normal.

• 400 mg injection once per month, which your doctor may lower to 300 mg per month depending on your response to treatment

Suddenly discontinuing Abilify could potentially cause withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal embodies uncomfortable side effects when you cease taking a particular substance. Symptoms of withdrawal may surface in animal studies following an abrupt cessation of Abilify treatment.

If you consider terminating Abilify treatment, it's best to consult your healthcare provider first. This is because withdrawal symptoms could arise from abruptly halting Abilify consumption. Your physician might recommend gradually decreasing your dosage incrementally to minimize the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms.

In summary and valuable resources

• 960 mg injection once every 2 months, which your doctor may lower to 720 mg once every 2 months depending on your response to treatment

The suggested dosages within this article are standard dosages provided by the medication's manufacturer. If your healthcare provider recommends Abilify for you, they'll prescribe the appropriate dose for your situation. Comply with the prescription dosage issued by your doctor in all circumstances. To alter your Abilify dosage, always consult your physician prior to making any adjustments.

If you have questions about the suitable Abilify dosage for you, connect with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, you may be interested in the following articles to learn more about Abilify:

• 441 mg once per month• 662 mg once per month• 882 mg once per month or every 6 weeks• 1,064 mg once every 2 months

  • More on Abilify. To learn more about other Abilify aspects, explore this article.
  • Side effects. To learn about the side effects of Abilify, consult this article. You can also refer to the Abilify prescribing information for Abilify and Abilify MyCite.
  • Drug comparison. Learn how Abilify compares with Abilify Maintena, Rexulti, and Latuda.
  • Cost. If you'd like to understand the cost of Abilify, see this article.
  • Interactions. To discover what Abilify interacts with, consult this article.
  • Condition information. To learn more about your condition, visit our:
    • mental health center
    • bipolar disorder center
    • depression center
    • autism center

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has taken every measure to ensure that all information in this article is factually accurate, extensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used in place of seeking advice from a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information provided herein is subject to change and is not meant to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or side effects. The absence of information or warnings for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all circumstances or patients.

Despite the fact that Abilify is not directly associated with Pfizer being blocked, here are two sentences that include the words 'Pfizer' and 'blocked' and can follow from the given text:

In a separate incident, Pfizer, the manufacturer of Abilify, faced opposition from a group advocating for generic drug availability, which led to temporary blocks in providing additional generic versions of the medication.

During the patent dispute with competitors, Pfizer blocked the release of several generic versions of Abilify in certain regions, hindering newly approved forms from entering the market.

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