The nurse is monitoring a client with schizophrenia who is prescribed aripiprazole (Abilify). During a multidisciplinary mental health team meeting, which symptoms should be brought to the psychiatrist’s attention?
Aripiprazole (Abilify) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in both adults and adolescents. Uncontrolled body movements (including the face, tongue, or other body parts) is indicative of tardive dyskinesia, a known serious side effect of Abilify. Stiff muscles may be indicative of neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a known serious side effect of Abilify. Hypertension and bradycardia are not side effects of Abilify.
