*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
You should not drink alcohol while taking Abilify (aripiprazole). Alcohol can intensify the nervous system side effects of aripiprazole, leading to dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. It may also impair your thinking and judgment.
It is important to consult with your prescriber about the risks of using alcohol with Abilify. If you are considering Abilify or want to discuss your current medication treatment with a provider, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health can connect you with a provider quickly. Their providers can determine your best treatment options, answer any questions you have about taking your medication, and provide new prescriptions as appropriate.
Boxed Warning: Aripiprazole (Abilify)- Risk of death in older patients with dementia-related psychosis and risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Aripiprazole, the active ingredient in Abilify, has a black box warning. This is the most serious type of warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Aripiprazole can increase the risk of dealth in older patents with dementia-related psychosis as well as increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with aripiprazole and any other medications before starting treatment.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
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What Is Abilify (Aripiprazole)?
Abilify (aripiprazole) is a medication that falls under the atypical antipsychotic drug class. It’s FDA-approved to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder when used with antidepressants, irritability in autism, and Tourette’s disorder.1
FDA approval is an indication that the FDA has determined that Abilify has been carefully tested and found safe and effective for treating conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. But it can also lead to severe side effects like stroke, a rare condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and problems with your metabolism. It’s crucial to talk to your doctor for advice tailored to your situation.
Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Abilify?
Drinking alcohol while taking Abilify is generally not recommended. Alcohol can interact with Abilify, potentially intensifying the sedative effects of both substances. A study found that Abilify increased the sedative effects of alcohol and, to some extent, reduced the euphoric effects.2
This combination may lead to drowsiness and impaired judgment. Additionally, both alcohol and Abilify are metabolized in the liver, and their simultaneous use might strain the liver, potentially affecting their individual effectiveness and safety. While there is ongoing research into the use of Abilify to modify alcohol use, combining them should be approached with caution, and individuals should consult their healthcare providers for personalized guidance on their specific circumstances.3
Can You Drink Alcohol With Other Antipsychotics?
Combining alcohol with antipsychotic medications, including other antipsychotics, can be risky. A study revealed that while many patients with mental health disorders receive advice from healthcare providers to avoid alcohol while on these medications, some still consume alcohol, leading to serious adverse effects.4
This highlights the need to understand why patients may not follow the advice and how to bridge this gap between guidance and action. In summary, it’s generally advisable for individuals taking antipsychotic medications to exercise caution and consult their healthcare providers regarding alcohol consumption.
Does Abilify Make You Crave Alcohol?
A research study examining the effect of Ablify on people who were treated for alcohol dependence suggested that Abilify could potentially reduce alcohol cravings and prevent relapse. The findings showed that the number of people who stayed alcohol-free and those who relapsed were similar for Abilify and naltrexone, a medication that has an established track record in treating relapse.5
Naltrexone has a more beneficial effect on reducing cravings than Ablify. The researchers suggested that Abilify could potentially show benefits for preventing relapse and reducing cravings, but more research is needed.
What Are the Side Effects of Mixing Alcohol & Abilify?
Combining alcohol and Abilify can result in an increased risk of side effects. Some individuals may experience heightened dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating when drinking alcohol while on Abilify. It’s important to avoid or limit alcohol consumption to minimize these potential adverse effects and ensure the safe and effective functioning of the medication.
Common side effects of mixing alcohol and Abilify may include:1
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Impaired judgment
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased sedation
- Enhanced risk of falls
- Enhanced risk of injury
- Potential liver strain
- Altered metabolic function
Severe side effects of mixing alcohol and Abilify may include:1
- Severe muscle stiffness
- Stroke
- Uncontrollable body movements
- Increased risk of seizures
- High blood sugar
- Difficulty regulating body temperature
- Low blood pressure when standing up
- Elevated cholesterol and fat levels in the blood
- Unusual and uncontrollable behaviors
- Worsening of psychiatric symptoms
*All medications, including Abilify, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with excessive drinking while taking Abilify or any other medication, it’s vital to seek professional help. Watch for signs like increased alcohol consumption or worsening symptoms. Discuss your concerns about medication interactions with your doctor, who can explore alternative treatments. Professional help is readily available and can make a significant difference in your path to recovery and well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance and support.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance
Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Abilify (Aripiprazole) Use With Alcohol
When considering the combination of Abilify and alcohol, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider and ask vital questions. Inquire about how this combination may affect you personally and if there are specific risks or side effects to be aware of. Explore alternative treatment options if you have concerns, and find out what signs to watch for in case of adverse effects.
Questions to ask your doctor about alcohol and Abilify include:
- Is there a safe limit for alcohol consumption while taking Abilify?
- Can I consume alcohol occasionally without major risks?
- Are there any specific types of alcoholic beverages that I should avoid?
- How might alcohol interact with Abilify in my case, and what side effects should I watch for?
- Are there any safer alternatives to Abilify if I want to drink occasionally?
- If I decide to drink and experience an adverse reaction, what should I do?
- How might alcohol affect my mental health symptoms and the effectiveness of Abilify?
- What are the risks of long-term alcohol use while on Abilify?
- Are there any specific signs or symptoms I should report immediately if they occur after drinking with Abilify?
- Can you provide guidelines for moderate alcohol consumption while on Abilify?
- How long should I wait between taking Abilify and drinking alcohol?
- Are there any specific medications or substances I should absolutely avoid while on Abilify?
In My Experience
“In my experience, discussing the combination of Abilify and alcohol with your healthcare provider is essential for informed decision-making. The questions reviewed here emphasize the significance of seeking professional guidance. Your doctor can help you understand the risks and effects of using Abilify and alcohol together, as well as alternative treatments for your condition that may have less significant interactions with alcohol.”
ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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National Institutes of Health. (2022). DailyMed – abilify- aripiprazole tablet abilify- aripiprazole solution abilify- aripiprazole tablet, orally disintegrating abilify- aripiprazole injection, solution. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Kranzler, H. R., Covault, J., Pierucci-Lagha, A., Chan, G., Douglas, K., Arias, A. J., & Oncken, C. (2008, April). Effects of aripiprazole on subjective and physiological responses to alcohol. Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3159685/
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Voronin, K., Randall, P., Myrick, H., & Anton, R. (2008, November). Aripiprazole effects on alcohol consumption and subjective reports in a clinical laboratory paradigm–possible influence of self-control. Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2588475/
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Cheng, C., Mithoowani, F., Ungar, T., & Lee, M. (2018). Interaction between psychotropic medications and alcohol: Perceptions among patients attending an Adult Mental Health Day Hospital Program. The Canadian journal of hospital pharmacy. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5842058/
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Martinotti, G., Nicola, M. D., Giannantonio, M. D., & Janiri, L. (2008). Aripiprazole in the treatment of patients with alcohol dependence: A double-blind, comparison trial vs. naltrexone. Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England). Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18515460/
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Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
