Abilify

[STARTwHello]

Can anyone share their experience with Abilify in kids? We just started a 2mg evening dose today for my son who is almost 7. We take “evening” meds around 4p because that’s what works for his anxiety and regulation. He seemed way more irritated tonight and was aggressive towards his sister when she wanted to get out of a fort and he didn’t want her to. He struggles with regulation and aggression but it seemed like more. Would the med have made any change that quickly? I think it’s supposed to take a few days/weeks to show change.

[Dum1]

I think ability is for 13 year olds and above , unless if the doctor you went is testing it. For kids of that age normally is small amount of risperdal, ritalin and others. The medication might cause shivering and unstable conditions , and other complications for him according to my knowledge.

[STARTwHello in reply to Dum1]

Thanks! It is FDA approved starting at 6 for ASD dysregulation. We did try resperidone previously but were needing a dose increase and did not like the side effects. He does not respond well to stimulants. It increases aggression and agitation.

[Maryca1974]

We used (and still use) Abilify for our son to tamper down his aggression. We started it when he was in middle school. Our biggest issue with it is that it can cause weight gain because of carb cravings. It was fine in middle school when he wasn't eating much (also on ritalin), but now as a young adult, his late night munching is a problem.

[STARTwHello in reply to Maryca1974]

Thank you! We will watch this!!

[Elijah1]

Abilify helped our son be more behaviorally flexible with less upsets. When started, it can have temporary tiredness (which can make one irritable) but this should improve. At times, behaviors can get worse.

[STARTwHello in reply to Elijah1]

Ok. Thank you! We definitely see the tired. We are starting at 2mg in the evening. He also takes a liquid compound of guanfacine though and was already tired some in the mornings from that so we will see. Thank you!!

[RelaxingDays]

Hi. 9yr old girl on abilify for couple years now...switched from risperidone due to less chance of future side effects. She started at 1 mg and slowly increased to recently at 5mg. It does seem to help with her dysregulation and impulsive behaviors/aggression. Also, I feel it takes at least 1-2weeks to notice any changes and read it can take up to couple months to notice full affect of abilify...recent increase has been about 2 weeks and noticed more regulation. Hope this helps. Every body is so different and reacts differently to each med. Good luck!

[STARTwHello in reply to RelaxingDays]

Thank you! This helps to hear a switch from resperidone. We definitely feel this realm of meds has helped the most. Stimulants are not a good fit.