Can one drink alcohol moderately while taking abilify?

According to the Abilify (aripiprazole) prescription information, drinking alcohol while on Abilify is not recommended. Combining alcohol and Abilify can increase the chances and severity of several Abilify side effects. Additionally, for many people with mental illness, it is usually recommended that alcohol be avoided.

Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of certain Abilify side effects, such as drowsiness or low blood pressure (when sitting or standing up). You may also be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol if you are taking Abilify. You may not be able to safely drink as much alcohol as you were used to drinking in the past.

Abilify is approved to treat schizophrenia, major depression, autism, and bipolar disorder. Generally, it is best for people with these mental illnesses to avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol may worsen mental illness and is often a form of "self-medication."

Although it is not recommended that you drink alcohol while taking Abilify, you should not be afraid to discuss your alcohol consumption with the doctor. Together, you and your doc can make a shared decision about Abilify and alcohol for your particular situation. If you do drink, the doc can also suggest ways to help you stop drinking.

Take care & be well!