I have been on Lexapro, 20 mg/day for depression. It helped a lot, but adding Abilify brought my mood up to a whole new level. I haven't felt this good in years. I am only on 2.5 mg/day. (I cut a 5 mg pill in half)..and have been on the drug only about ten days. I feel a huge difference already. I had trouble getting out of bed and starting my day before, now I am up early and anxious to get the day going, excited about life again. I feel more energetic than I have in years. A couple of downsides I have noticed: It seems like most reviews say that the drug makes them tired, but I seem to be having the opposite issue, insomnia. I now take it in the morning, and hopefully that will help. I am also experiencing constipation, which is one of the possible side effects. As far as I am concerned though, it's all worth it, this drug is a wonder drug for me! Published: January 01, 2009 ::

At 14 our son began taking Concerta for ADHD. At 16 our son was diagnosed as Bipolar and began taking Trileptal. At the age of 17 Abilify was added. After taking Abilify along with Trileptal and Concerta for several months the dosage of Abilify was increased from 5mg to 10mg. Sadly within 36 hours (Friday pm to Sunday am) he committed suicide. After the tragedy had occurred two people came forward to tell us that he had complained that his medication was making him feel unstable. In retrospect we recall that there was a noticeable increase in volatility within just 24 hours. The event that triggered suicide occurred 36 hours after the increase, when he wrecked his car. When he arrived home after wrecking his car it was apparent that he was not himself. He was extremely agitated and irrational and within 10 minutes had taken his life. Although we were taken aback by the increase in mood swings, we did not associate his behavior with the increase of his medication. I believe this tragedy may have been avoided if the Dr. prescribing this med had clearly informed us of the warning signs associated with the increase in dosage. When we notified the Dr. of the tragedy his response was shock and disbelief. He stated that he believed our son was "doing so well". It seems apparent to me that the doctor had become comfortable in his Dr/Patient relationship with our son and therefore may have minimized the warnings and risks associated with Abilify when taken by teens. My intention is not to place blame but rather to highlight the need for better communication between Dr's and both patients and parents. Warning signs and side effects should be clearly stated each time there is a change/increase regardless of the length of time the patient has been taking the medication. Published: November 16, 2008 ::

I have been on many medications for depression. I take Abilify along with other meds and have had a tremendously positive response. It has removed the loss of energy that I suffered from, I feel awak and alive and energetic. I have the energy to cook dinner--and even dinner for the freezer for the future,am happy doing chores (as happy as you can be doing chores) and overall a positive sense of being. My heart goes out to those who have had negative side effects from Abilify---I've been there on other medication. If you are about to try this medicine, know that some people do have positive outcomes, while others do not. There is a weight gain, and I've started doing minor exercising. I don't like the weight gain, but at least I feel good again. Published: May 05, 2008 ::

Suffer with Major Deppression and Severe Anxiety only started this drug 1 week ago. I can already see a major difference. I take 5 mg w/ anti deppr meds and xanax, upset stomache getting better,I have more energy not less, more motivation. huge difference in how I feel. Before this med hadn't left the house in weeks. So far its been wonder med along with others. Take ambien to sleep. Published: November 19, 2008 ::

This medication was prescribed for my 6-year old son who had SEVERE anger issues. He is a totally different child. A little drowsiness is worth him feeling like a normal little boy. Published: December 27, 2007 ::

I have only been on Abilify for a week. No drastic swings. Votes still out. My concern is for these people that are having such drastic reactions and still listen to their doctor... COMMON SENSE. I'm on 2.5 mg now... no side effects. It will work slower but the chances of side effects are MUCH smaller. THIS IS A PSYCH DRUG. USE CAUTION AND MOST OF ALL COMMON SENSE. Doctors are not God and do not know everything. Sometimes they just know what the drug reps. tell them......................... I'm a nurse for 20 years so I know of what I speak.... be safe Published: March 15, 2008 ::