Summary of Reddit Comments on Abilify for Bipolar

Positive Experiences with Abilify:

• Some users experienced positive effects within days or weeks of starting Abilify.
• It was described as a game-changer for depression, helping with cognition, social interaction, and prioritization.
• For some, it helped prevent manic or mixed episodes and lessened their severity.
• Many users reported improved mood regulation and symptom management.
• One user mentioned it helped with reducing anger and psychotic depression.
• Another user mentioned that it helped with anxiety and depression symptoms.
• Some users found it effective when used as an add-on to other medications like Wellbutrin or Effexor.
• Users appreciated the stabilizing effects of Abilify on both manias and depressions, especially at low doses.

Side Effects and Negative Experiences:

• Weight gain was a common concern with Abilify, along with increased appetite.
• Sexual side effects, including decreased libido, were reported by some users.
• Some experienced excessive sleepiness or restlessness.
• Brain fog, nausea, and initial side effects were also mentioned.
• Abilify was reported to cause mania or worsen manic symptoms in some cases.
• One user experienced severe depression and anhedonia while taking it.
• Anger issues and interactions with other medications like Seroquel were reported.
• Withdrawal symptoms and difficulty tapering off Abilify were mentioned by some users.
• Not effective for some in managing depression, needing a change to other medications like lithium.

General Advice and Recommendations:

• Users recommended starting with a low dose and gradually increasing to minimize side effects.
• It was advised to give Abilify at least a couple of weeks to assess its effectiveness.
• Some users recommended mood charts to track medication effects and changes.
• Consulting with a psychiatrist for adjustments and changes in medication was suggested.
• The importance of monitoring symptoms, checking in with others, and being patient in finding the right medication was highlighted.

Overall, Abilify showed mixed results, with some users experiencing significant improvements in mood regulation and symptom management, while others faced challenges with side effects and efficacy. Finding the right dosage, monitoring symptoms closely, and seeking professional guidance were common themes among the Reddit comments.