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Abilify Maintena User Reviews & Ratings (Page 2)

Abilify Maintena has an average rating of 6.3 out of 10 from a total of 61 reviews on Drugs.com. 52% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 28% reported a negative experience.

Reviews for Abilify Maintena

  • Green...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • May 7, 2019

For Schizophrenia "I have been using Abilify Maintena for 2 months now. I had very little problems with my illness to begin with but my psychiatrist decided to put me on it due to many trouble I have caused to some people a while ago. The drug has had for me very little to 0 therapeutic effect. In fact, now I have less motivation and a big social anxiety. I was before on Xeplion (invega sustenna) and abilify is still a lot better than Xeplion because it has a lot less side effect."

6 / 10
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  • Kyra...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • September 11, 2021

For Schizophrenia "I have a delusional disorder. I had a good experience. Calmed me down to the point I wasn't making rash actions and statements. Benefits: ups your dopamine in the right places, lowers it in the right places (rather than just lowering it altogether). Side Effects: Little to no side effects. There is a slightly dulled, or sedating, sensation... and at the same time, a little restlessness. But unlike when on other antipsychotics, I was able to go about my daily activities (and enjoy them). Dosage: 400 mg, also available in 300 mg injection. Ease of Use: Nurse comes straight to my door to administer. You might have to go to a hospital to get it done if you don't have a nurse. Notes: Combines well with Zoloft (sertraline). HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS DRUG IF YOU HAVE TO TAKE IT TO STAY OUT OF THE HOSPITAL. IF YOU HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN THIS AND INVEGA SUSTENNA, ALWAYS TAKE THIS ONE."

9 / 10
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  • Deeka
  • August 25, 2019

For Bipolar Disorder "I have been diagnosed with comorbid bipolar2 and ADHD. It has been such a struggle, trying different cocktails. The reason I give abilify a 5, is because it had treated my bipolar2, have not had any manic episodes within the past 5 months I’ve received the 400mg injection, however I am started to feel that numb and empty feeling again (no sex drive and not many pleasant emotions either). It’s so miserable, I wish it was a faster process instead of having to wait until my next doctors appointment to tell him to take me off of this or at least lower my dose. From previous experience I do not stop a medication without consulting my doctor and I would highly recommend doing the same as it can lead to detriment in your life if you have manic episodes such as myself. Right now though, I wish I could just stop it so I have more energy. I’m also on lamictal and Dexedrine. I won’t give up, and I hope that those of you struggling can remain resilient in your search for a cure."

5 / 10
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13 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • Green...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 27, 2019

For Schizophrenia "I shared my experience once already. But I need to share it again. It has been now 4 months I take abilify maintena. And with the help of the pill form, I feel like the side effects are really subsiding. I gained 20 lbs but at least I feel somewhat normal again."

8 / 10
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  • A A Ron
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • July 6, 2018

For Schizophrenia "I was put on this injection, after my insurance wouldn't cover any other injection other than prolixin. I was covered for this injection through the Prelapse Study. Now if anyone has ever been on Prolixin, you should know that the effect are extremely bad so being on Abilify Maintena was a god send. It overall changed me completely to where I am functioning at a normal state, and haven't been in the hospital since I have been put on this injection. I do have some side effect from the injection, which most notably is the uncontrollable muscle movments, which I am uncertain if this is unreleated to the drug itself or if I have a form of tourette's. Also I did notice some uncontrollable urges in spending money/gambling, more than what I thought I would have normally done. Overall to be honest, the benefits out weight the cons in my concern."

9 / 10
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Are you taking this medicine?

  • Enjamin...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • July 29, 2021

For Schizophrenia "Stuff will ruin your freaking life, you will be sick fat and lonely. Can this stuff be made illegal already? I get forced to take this stuff in NH USA. Really nasty stuff. I need help getting rid of it or purifying it."

1 / 10
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7 Report
  • anonomo
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • February 2, 2019

For Bipolar Disorder "So where to begin. I love how this drug completely turned my life around in a really positive way. Used to have multiple manic episodes a year. I haven't had one in over a year after being on this drug. The reason I'm giving this an 8 as its incredibly effective as a mood stabilizer but it makes you too stable to the point of feeling numb at a high dose. Some minor weight gain thats slowly going away, and akathisia which is also slowly going away. I hope that the anhedonia will also slowly back off over time. Lets see. If I had to take this or be unstable I would take this. Also starting this was a nightmare as it made me incredibly agitated before it eventually stabilized my mood."

8 / 10
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10 Report

More FAQ

  • Fried...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 13, 2019

"Since starting this medication on May 23, 2019, I have gained 14 lbs. That's approximately 1 lb. per day. Aside from the weight gain, this medication manages my Mania and keeps it at bay. It also has helped make me more myself, getting out and active like I always used to be."

8 / 10
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9 Report
  • Marla
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • April 21, 2023

For Bipolar Disorder "This is an amazing medication! It has stabilized me like no other medication. I have been receiving injections since October 2016, to show how effective it's been. I'm also on Depakote ER, and Abilify Maintena has worked wonderfully with it. I sometimes have trouble remembering to take my medications or falling asleep before I take my night medications, so the fact that it's only a once-a-month injection works perfectly for me. I haven't seemed to have any side effects from it, either."

10 / 10
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  • sammy...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • January 19, 2018

For Bipolar Disorder "This is my story. 20 years ago I developed clinical depression possibly bipolar. That was bad enough but the change in brain chemistry plunged me into immediate/overnight alcoholism. Nothing worked for 20 years. This drug cured my alcoholism. I am a normal drinker now. I have no idea why this drug cured my alcoholism but it did."

10 / 10
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  • Green...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • November 2, 2019

For Schizophrenia "I have used the Abilify Maintena for 7-8 months. All the side effects have almost disappeared except for the anxiety. My psychiatrist has agreed to put me off of it. I guess the anxiety will wear off within a couple of months."

3 / 10
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8 Report
  • Joseph
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • July 31, 2021

For Schizophrenia "I am on 300mg injection and experience difficulty breathing and problems with the water works and my face is constantly moving when walking. I take multiple supplements to counteract the effects of the drug including serra enzyme for my shaking in the arms. I have been admitted to hospital for low blood sugar and the drug is extremely oppressive to expect me to take it"

1 / 10
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5 Report
  • Cdnpa...
  • August 3, 2021

For Schizophrenia "I was hospitalized for having a psychotic episode where I was having delusions and hallucinations. I was originally started on the highest dose of Invega Sustenna but had the dose lowered and was switched over to Abilify Maintena after 5 months once my doctor was convinced I did not have schizophrenia. It completely cured me of my paranoia but left me, like many others here have described, without any emotion or motivation which is why my doctor switched me and lowered my dose after complaining. My doctor said the antipsychotic contributed to maybe 5% of my lethargy and the rest was something else- ie depression/anxiety. In the end, we both agreed 1 year on the antipsychotics was enough. I am now 1 month off and am starting to feel like myself again. I felt the need to post this because not everyone gives updates. The drug worked, but I would not want to be on it for too long. Hang in there if you are coming off it. It does get better-at least for me."

5 / 10
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  • Anonymous
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • August 18, 2023

For Schizophrenia "It has fewer side effects compared to other antipsychotics; however, one side effect to be aware of is insomnia. I think overall, with how few side effects it has, it can be worth it for some people. It's also activating rather than sedating compared to other antipsychotics, so that's a plus too."

7 / 10
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  • Bartosz
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • March 15, 2024

"My C-PTSD got misdiagnosed as schizophrenia three times in involuntary stay at the hospital after fighting with my narcissistic toxic parents. The second time, they forced me on 3 olanzapine injections which had terrible side effects I could not live with. However, at this hospitalization, they gave me two Maintena shots and I have almost no side effects. My libido is still there, I'm not a zombie, I didn't gain weight, and I don't sleep 14 hours a day. It calmed my stressed state out (I don't have schizophrenia), but I have C-PTSD symptoms that it worked on in some way. I heard terrible things about other injections like Invega as well. If you have to get one, get this. It's the best antipsychotic out there, I would say. 10/10."

10 / 10
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  • MLFS
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • July 17, 2023

For Bipolar Disorder "My left eyelid gets stuck closed every morning, no discharge in the eye. Shortness of breath and also heart pains occasionally. I am seeing a Neuro Ophthalmologist; he cannot find anything wrong with me. I am also seeing a cardiologist and he can't find anything wrong with me. So, my family doctor thinks it's my shot causing these side effects."

5 / 10
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  • Goldp...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • May 10, 2023

For Schizophrenia "This medicine is a life changer! its helped me live an almost completely normal life along with monitoring and therapy. I highly suggest you take a look at it if you are taking an oral anti-psychotic and having trouble adhering to a medication regimen and/or don't want to have to think about another thing to take every day. I don't really notice large peaks and valleys as I was told to possibly expect with a extended release medication. Also the manufacturer has a huge coupon this year 2023."

10 / 10
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  • Monesi
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • February 3, 2019

For Bipolar Disorder "I've been on abilify maintena for 3 days. I already feel better after being on paliperidone depot which made me depressed anxious and I had had dark thought patterns. Abilify has to be the better medication I've tried, I was diagnosed with bipolar in 2009."

8 / 10
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  • Crystal...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • December 20, 2022

For Bipolar Disorder "I have been on Abilify for just over a month I have found a big difference in my moods. As of today December 19th 2022 I take the Abilify injection but still have to take Abilify tablets for 2 weeks that's how long it takes to get into your system. I like it, it works well for me."

7 / 10
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  • Willi...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • May 24, 2023

"I suffer from PTSD and am constantly tired and also suffer from inappropriately timed narcolepsy. I have gained at least 50 lbs. My blood pressure has skyrocketed and my heart rate is no longer what I consider fit. 154/95 BP; 81 heart beat. I have constant difficulty swallowing, and my sleep apnea has worsened. I am constantly despondent and troubled by my health deterioration."

1 / 10
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1 Report
  • Bioch...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • February 3, 2023

For Bipolar Disorder "I received an injection to treat my bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Before getting the shot, I researched the reviews and learned that drowsiness was a common side effect. I have also noticed a slight slowing of my motor skills. It is important to note that the shot amplifies the effects of normal Abilify pill dosages. Initially, I was excited about the shot as it promised to help with my delusions and improve my functionality. However, I would advise to make sure you have a strong reason for taking the shot as it can make you feel sluggish. Overall, it is important to consider the potential side effects and weigh them against the benefits before making a decision."

5 / 10
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1 Report
  • guest
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • July 9, 2024

For Schizophrenia "Totally turned my life around. No more hallucinations. Would recommend."

10 / 10
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2 Report
  • Sunsh...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • May 13, 2024

For Schizophrenia "I feel like it still makes me sleepy after taking for 7 months. It has helped though a lot."

7 / 10
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4 Report
  • Big...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • September 7, 2018

For Schizophrenia "I have been taken the drug for over a year now no side effects."

10 / 10
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36 Report
  • 14443...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 11, 2018

For Schizophrenia "This drug is terrible. I can’t remember a thing. No desire or passion for anything. Stops my thought process almost entirely. Very scary."

1 / 10
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34 Report

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.