Learn About Abilify Dosages

Abilify dosages are not a “one dose fits all” kind of solution. Rather, they depend on several factors and criterion that are used to determine the right dosage for a particular individual.

The medication comes in many different forms and strength including an injected solution ( 9.75 mg/mL), oral solution (1 mg/mL), a regular tablet (2 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg), and a dissolvable tablet (10 mg and 15 mg). The variety of options allows for dosing that can meet the individuals needs.

Generally speaking, Abilify dosages are usually taken once a day and you can take it with our without food – your choice. It is recommended that you start with the initial and/or target dose and continue at that level for at least 2 weeks before increasing (or decreasing) the dosage. The 2 weeks is a ramp up period and allows you to get to a steady state before making any adjustments.

The primary difference in Abilify dosages depends on the condition being treated. I will talk about the different conditions and the appropriate dose below.

Schizophrenia

In adults, initial and target does is 10 – 15 mg/day, maxing out at 30 mg/day with strict doctor supervision.

With children (13 – 17 y.o.), the initial dose is 2 mg/day with a target dose of 10 mg/day and no more than 30 mg/day – again with strict doctor supervision.

Bipolar Disorder

In adults, initial and target dose is 15 mg/day with a maximum of 30 mg/day. This can be used as a therapy by itself or in addition to treatment with lithium or valproate.

In children (10 – 17 y.o.), the initial dose is 2 mg/day with a target dose of 10 mg/day and no more than 30 mg/day

Agitation Associated with
Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder

In these cases, it is recommended that the client use the intramuscular injectable form of Abilify. Starting at 9.75 mg/1.3 mL and not to exceed 30 mg/day but only if it is clinically necessary. Also, it is recommended that the patient transition to an oral form of Abilify as soon as possible.

Major Depressive Disorder – Adults Only

Abilify dosages are used as a complimentary treatment alongside other antidepressants. In these cases, the initial dose recommended is 2 – 5 mg/day, target does of 5 – 10 mg/day, not to exceed 15 mg/day.

Autistic Disorder with Irritability

In children (6 – 17 y.o.) with irritability associated with autism, the initial dose is 2 mg/day with a maximum dose of 15 mg/day. Doses can be increased weekly at 5 mg/day increments.

The dosage of Abilify should be carefully considered. It’s important to note that patients should always start with the lowest dose to see how they react. Also, using a psychotropic drug to treat a child should only be seriously considered after a thorough evaluation, diagnosis and consideration of the risks versus the rewards/benefits.

These kinds of medications should not be used as the only treatment. Rather, it should be used in conjunction with other psychological, educational and social treatment strategies.

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