Aripiprazole is a drug that is often prescribed for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression. Though it is usually considered an effective treatment for such conditions, there are some side effects that should be mentioned to a doctor. The most common aripiprazole side effects include headaches, anxiety, agitation, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and fatigue. Less common symptoms that may show up include shakiness, heartburn, weight gain, joint pain, throat ache, stomach pain, blurry vision, cough, congestion, and water retention. There are some more serious aripiprazole side effects that should be mentioned to a doctor right away, such as extreme thirst or hunger, excessive urination, high blood sugar, extreme weight gain, jitteriness, dizziness, thoughts of suicide, or sudden muscle movements.
The most often reported side effects of aripiprazole tend to be the least dangerous, though they are bothersome. For example, some people become agitated or anxious while taking this drug, which may defeat its purpose as an antipsychotic. Nausea, vomiting, and headaches may also occur when taking this drug, along with constipation. Aside from not feeling well in general, some patients may also note sudden fatigue or drowsiness, while others may complain of restlessness and insomnia. These aripiprazole side effects should be monitored and reported to a doctor, but are not usually unsafe or long-term.
Some less common aripiprazole side effects include shakiness, blurred vision, and fatigue. Aripiprazole may also result in symptoms of overall illness, such as sore throat, cough, and congestion, which means that some people taking this drug may not even realize the cause of their symptoms for quite some time. Some symptoms that involve the whole body include joint pain, weight gain, and swelling of the arms and legs. The mouth may also feel dry all the time, and stomach pain is a common effect, as well. Since these aripiprazole side effects may disturb the typical routine, making it difficult to work or study, patients should mention them to a doctor as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, there are even more serious side effects that may come along with this drug, including thoughts of suicide and sudden extreme weight gain. Hypertension, jitteriness, dizziness, and even fainting may also result. Some people also end up with the most common signs of diabetes, such as high blood sugar, along with increased hunger, thirst, and urination. Finally, some patients notice random, sudden muscle movements, which is a symptom that needs to be reported to a doctor immediately since it can become permanent over time.