I have a form of bipolar disorder & at the moment, I am dealing with rapid cycling moods as well as anxiety issues (borderline OCD). Recently, I am prescribed Abilify in a low dose, as well as Klonopin along with lithium. Has anyone else every taken Abilify? I've read up on it; I wanted to hear from real people about their expirences. My apologies if this is a repeat thread, I haven't been here for a while (kinda a cycling thing-- wonder why ) Peace and love
Since no one's responded to this yet, I'll shoot out a little feedback even though I don't take this. You probably know it was originally designed to treat schizophrenia (supposedly it's awesome for stopping auditory/visual hallucinations), and has less side effects than zyprexa, risperdal, and seroquel. New studies have shown it works wonders against bipolar mania though, which probably explains why you were asked to try it. I could go on, but there's a thread at healthyplace.com that's exactly what you're looking for, so uh... yeah... http://forums.healthyplace.com/ubbt...Number=34644&page=&view=&sb=5&o=&fpart=1&vc=1
If you go to www.remedyfind.com just type the name of the drug into the search box. You can get basic information about the drug then scroll to the bottom and there is a message board where people who take/ took the drug post their experiences. Also keep in mind that abilify is a relatively new drug so there is no telling what long term effects the drug will have. However, I know a few people who take it and so far, have had few side effects and for others the drug simply did not work.
If its a anti-psychotic then you better be ready for a very strong medication that will make you feel drunk and disoriented. And did I mention the chronic leg twitching and sweating.
I have the basic info on it; just want to know what you folks have expirienced. Plus, it's expensive as fuck!! Peace and Love
In my experience and reports from others, people seem to tolerate the drug as it is not as heavy in side effects like other drugs in that class such as seriqual, zyprexa ETC. Effectiveness in managing symptoms seems to very widely from reports I have heard. But you are right it is a very expensive drug. To try it or not is ultimately up to you. Research the medication and alternatives so you can make an informed choice. As for the cost, depending on your situation there may be programs available to help you. If possible you can ask your doctor for a month of free samples so you can see if it works before you shell out all that cash for the medication. Do not take anything I have said as advocating for or against medication. There are many paths to recovery. I believe people should make their own choices. Best wishes to you and I hope you feel better.
Abilify has helped me a lot. I haven't expierenced too many bad effects- just appetite suppressing. Not too bad. Any other expierences? Thanks for those who replied! Peace and love
Bristol-Myers, the company that makes abilify, provides assistance for people that have problems paying. I have no idea if you'd qualify, but it's worth a shot to try, I'd think. The number is 800-332-2056
Thanks fulmah! my bf doesn't have health insurance but I do (thank god). I'll pass the info to him Peace and love
