Abilify (aripiprazole) may not be the right choice for every patient. In such cases, it is important to discuss with a medical provider potential Abilify alternatives.
Abilify Alternatives
What are your options when it comes to alternatives for Abilify?
NOTE: There are many other medications not listed below that patients may be able to take.
For Anxiety
There are other atypical antipsychotic drugs similar to Abilify, such as brexpiprazole (Rexulti) or ziprasidone (Geodon). Other drugs available to treat anxiety disorders include antidepressants like escitalopram (Lexapro) or duloxetine (Cymbalta).Â
For Children
Alternative drugs for children will depend on their age and why they take Abilify. Other antipsychotic medications suitable for children include clozapine (Clozaril) and olanzapine (Zyprexa). Children in need of a mood stabilizer might take lithium or valproic acid (Depakene). Commonly prescribed antidepressants for children include fluoxetine (Prozac) and escitalopram (Lexapro). (There are many other options available as well (clozapine in many patients is a last line therapy))
For Schizophrenia
Alternative treatment for schizophrenia would include other antipsychotics like asenapine (Saphris) or clozapine (Clozaril). There are long-lasting injectable antipsychotics as well, such as fluphenazine decanoate (Modecate) or haloperidol decanoate (Haldol). (There are many other options available aswell (clozapine in many patients is a last line therapy))
For Sleep
Other atypical antipsychotics might offer the same effect as Abilify, such as asenapine (Saphris). Melatonin may be beneficial in patients for sleep. There is also medication specifically designed for sleep disorders, such as zolpidem (Ambien).
For Depression
Those with major depressive disorder might take an antidepressant such as an SSRI, SNRI, or tricyclic antidepressants. Some examples of these include citalopram (Celexa), duloxetine (Cymbalta), or nortriptyline (Pamelor). There are also other atypical antidepressants that may help, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) or mirtazapine (Remeron).
For Bipolar Disorder
Medication for bipolar disorder often focuses on specific symptoms. Someone experiencing depression or mania that does not respond to more typical treatments might take another antipsychotic, such as olanzapine (Zyprexa), to have a similar effect.
For Psychosis
Many factors go into deciding a treatment plan for psychosis. Some drugs that may replace Abilify include amisulpride (Solian) or clozapine (Clozaril). Experts believe these medications block chemical transmitters in the brain in fashion similar to Abilify.
For Schizoaffective Disorder
Treatment options for schizoaffective disorder would work to stabilize mood, relieve psychotic symptoms, and treat the depression. Some common medications include one drug offered for the treatment of this condition: paliperidone (Invega), a long-acting injection.
For Tourette’s (Tourette Syndrome)
Treatment for Tourette’s is typically based on controlling symptoms. Medications that block dopamineâwhich can be key to managing these symptomsâmight replace Abilify. These medications include risperidone (Risperdal) or pimozide (Orap). Medical providers sometimes prescribe antidepressants to treat these conditions, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), making them potential aripiprazole alternatives.
For ADHD
Antipsychotic medications that stabilize dopamine can be effective for ADHD, such as risperidone (Risperdal) or pimozide (Orap).
For Pain
Some options for chronic pain relief that are similar to Abilify would include antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil) or nortriptyline (Pamelor). It’s possible that antidepressants may increase neurotransmitters that reduce pain signals.
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