Abilify Discontinuation: Symptoms, Duration, and Further Details

Withdraw Symptoms from Abilify Cessation: Details, Duration, and Additional Information

Abilify, also known as aripiprazole, is a second-generation antipsychotic commonly prescribed for certain mental health conditions, such as bipolar I disorder and schizophrenia. However, stopping this medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can range from mild to severe.

Withdrawal symptoms from Abilify may start within days and last a few weeks, or develop over several weeks and may take several months or even years to completely go away. Common symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, tremor, and irritability. In severe cases, withdrawal may involve more serious symptoms such as psychosis (loss of touch with reality), dyskinesia (involuntary movements), parkinsonism (tremor, slowed body movements, reduced coordination, muscle stiffness, memory loss), and aggressive behavior.

It is essential to report severe or ongoing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, vomiting, dizziness, tremor, or dyskinesia to a doctor immediately. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms may require adjustment of the taper schedule or additional treatment options.

Slowing down the process of stopping Abilify (taper schedule) can help minimize withdrawal symptoms. A slow taper schedule may involve reducing the most recent dose of antipsychotic medication by 25% or 50%, every 3 to 6 months.

Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle modifications, alternative treatments, and medications to manage individual symptoms can help cope during the withdrawal period. Regular physical activity and nutritious meals are examples of lifestyle modifications that may help. Meditation and yoga are alternative treatments that may also be beneficial.

In addition to these strategies, it's important to seek support from mental health organisations. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Talkspace.com, Mind (UK), and the International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal (IIPDW) are organisations that can provide support and guidance for managing withdrawal from Abilify or any other psychiatric drug.

It's crucial to remember that everyone's experience with Abilify withdrawal may differ, and not everyone who stops taking Abilify will experience withdrawal symptoms. The cooling-off effects of Abilify can take several weeks to fully disappear after a slow dose reduction, but the exact duration varies depending on individual factors such as dosage, treatment duration, and personal metabolism.

In conclusion, while stopping Abilify may lead to withdrawal symptoms, there are strategies available to manage these symptoms effectively. Seek professional help, follow a slow taper schedule, and engage in self-care practices to help navigate the withdrawal process.