provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content

Abilify Mycite

aripiprazole
Used for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia
Used for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) is taken by mouth and used to treat adults with schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, and used along with other medications to treat adults with depression. It's a drug-device combination product made of an aripiprazole (Abilify) tablet with an Ingestible Event Marker (IEM) sensor inside it. It also comes with a wearable patch that tracks the medication in your body. In order to use the Mycite system, you'll need to download and use the Mycite application (app) on a smartphone.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Yen Nguyen, PharmD
reviewer
Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Last reviewed on December 15, 2021
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsAlternativesLatest newsPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)?

What is Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) used for?

  • Schizophrenia

  • Bipolar I disorder

  • Major depressive disorder (add-on treatment)

How Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) works

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic that helps to improve your thoughts, mood, and behavior by affecting the dopamine and serotonin levels in your brain.

Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) works by having an IEM sensor inside the aripiprazole tablet, which can be detected by a wearable patch. The data from the patch gets sent to a smartphone app so you can track the medication in the body. Watch the instructional video to see how the Abilify Mycite system works.

Are you looking for information on aripiprazole (Abilify) oral tablets or solution, Abilify Maintena (aripiprazole) intramuscular injection, or Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil) intramuscular injection instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAbilify MyCite
Drug ClassAtypical antipsychotic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Headache (27%)
  • Agitation (19%)
  • Hard to sleep (insomnia) (18%)
  • Anxiety (17%)
  • Nausea (15%)
  • Constipation (11%)
  • Vomiting (11%)
  • Dizziness (10%)
  • Restlessness (10%)
  • Stomach upset (9%)
  • Drowsiness (7%)

Other Side Effects

  • Tiredness
  • Dry mouth
  • Tremor
  • Movement problems
  • Body pain
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Blurred vision
  • Toothache
  • Stomach discomfort

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Stroke: trouble speaking, trouble walking, sudden confusion, weakness in the face, arm, or leg
  • Impulse-control problems: intense urges for and behaviors including gambling, shopping, binge eating, engaging in sexual activity
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, abnormal pulse or blood pressure, fast heartbeat, sweating, and heart rhythm problems
  • Uncontrolled muscle movements: involuntarily sticking out your tongue, puffing out your cheeks, puckering your mouth, lip smacking, chewing, and foot tapping
  • Extremely high blood sugar levels: feeling very hungry or thirsty, urinating more often, stomach pain, weakness, fruity-smelling breath
  • Serious infections: fever, weakness, tiredness, sore throat, cough, difficulty breathing
  • Seizures

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Difficulty with speaking

drooling

loss of balance control

muscle trembling, jerking, or stiffness

restlessness

shuffling walk

stiffness of the limbs

twisting movements of the body

uncontrolled movements, especially of the face, neck, and back

Less common

Blurred vision

dizziness

headache

inability to move the eyes

increased blinking or spasms of the eyelid

nervousness

pounding in the ears

slow or fast heartbeat

sticking out the tongue

trouble with breathing or swallowing

unusual facial expressions

Rare

High fever

high or low blood pressure

increased sweating

lip smacking or puckering

loss of bladder control

muscle spasm or jerking of all extremities

puffing of the cheeks

rapid or worm-like movements of the tongue

seizures

severe muscle stiffness

sudden loss of consciousness

tiredness

uncontrolled chewing movements

uncontrolled movements of the arms and legs

unusually pale skin

Incidence not known

Hives or welts, itching, or skin rash

itching, puffiness, or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

redness of the skin

tightness in the chest

unusual tiredness or weakness

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Bigger, dilated, or enlarged pupils (black part of the eye)

diarrhea

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

lack or loss of strength

nausea

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Anxiety

belching

blurred vision

difficulty having a bowel movement

dry mouth

fear

fever

heartburn

hyperventilation

inability to sit still

indigestion

irritability

lightheadedness

need to keep moving

nervousness

rash

runny nose

shaking

sore throat

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

trouble sleeping

weight gain

Less common

Accidental injury

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

body aches or pain

congestion

coughing

difficulty with moving

dryness or soreness of the throat

hoarseness

increased appetite

increased salivation

joint pain

muscle aching or cramping

muscle pains or stiffness

rapid weight gain

sneezing

stuffy nose

swollen joints

tender, swollen glands in the neck

tingling of the hands or feet

tremor

unusual weight gain or loss

voice changes

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)

thumbs-up

Pros

Can track medication progress inside the body

Only taken once daily

App shares your health information directly with your provider

Dedicated tech support team for your Mycite system

thumbs-down

Cons

Requires a smartphone

Need to wear a patch to track the medication

The kit might be a little confusing when using for the first time

Available as brand only, so can be expensive

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)

pharmacist

  • If you're using Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) for the first time or if you need a new pod, make sure you get the starter kit. The starter kit contains a reusable pod, a device that pairs the sensor to your app, that can be used for up to one year. If you're getting refills of this medication, you can get the maintenance kit which doesn't come with the reusable pod.

    • Before taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole), make sure you download the application on your smartphone and pair it with the patch.

      • Place the patch on skin that's not scraped, cracked, swollen, or irritated. If your skin becomes irritated, take the patch off. You'll need to change the patch at least once weekly. Choose a new spot on the body every time you change the patch.

        • Let your provider know if you are going for an MRI procedure because your patch needs to be removed beforehand.

          • Take Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) once daily with or without meals. Swallow this medication whole. Don't divide, crush, or chew it.

            • Antipsychotics including Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can sometimes be hard to swallow and enters the lungs by mistake. Let your provider know if you are at risk of getting lung infections by having food, saliva, or other materials accidentally breathe into your lungs.

              • Let your provider know of any signs and symptoms of worsening behavior or suicidal thoughts, especially in the first few months of starting Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) or changing to a new dose.

                • Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can make it harder for your body to cool down. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated if you're exercising. Avoid staying out in the sun for too long or doing other activities that can raise your body temperature.

                  • Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) might make you feel sleepy, so don't drive or operate any machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

                    • Since Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can raise blood sugar levels, let your provider know if you experience extreme thirst or frequent urination.

                      • Let your provider know if you have a history of seizures because Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can make it easier to get a seizure, especially in people 65 years or older.

                        faqs

                        Frequently asked questions about Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)

                        How long will it take Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) to be detected on the smartphone app?
                        After you swallow Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole), the tablet is usually detected by your smartphone within 30 minutes, but sometimes it can take up to 2 hours. If the tablet isn't detected at all, don't repeat your dose. This could just mean that the sensor or the app isn't working properly, but the medication is still in your body. Because the detection of Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can be delayed or has a chance of not working at all, this medication shouldn't be used during an emergency or for the purpose of tracking it in "real time". Please speak with your healthcare provider or contact the Mycite Team if you think your Mycite system isn't working properly.
                        Can the Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) patch get wet?
                        Yes, the patch can get wet. You can still wear the patch while you're showering, swimming, or exercising. But you'll need to take off the patch if you getting an MRI and wear a new patch after the MRI is over. Please be aware that you do need to change your patch at least weekly, and your app will alert you when it's time to do so.
                        What happens if my smartphone is lost or broken?
                        If your smartphone is lost or broken, change the patch right away and connect to a new smartphone. Information collected during this time might be lost, but previous information should still be on the app if you log into your account. Please be aware that in order for the Mycite system to work, your smartphone needs to be within 9 feet of the patch, with the bluetooth turned on and paired.
                        When is the best time to take Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)?
                        Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) is taken once daily, around the same time every day. You can take Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) in the morning if this medication makes you restless and keeps you up at night. If Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) causes too much drowsiness or dizziness, you should consider taking it in the evening instead. Speak with your provider to determine the best time to take Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) so it won't interfere with your other medications or daily activities.
                        Can I take Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
                        Antipsychotic medications, including Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole), might harm your unborn baby. Taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) during the third trimester of pregnancy can raise the risk of movement problems or withdrawal symptoms in babies at birth, such as uneasiness, muscle tension, muscle weakness, tremor, sleepiness, trouble breathing, or trouble eating. Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can pass into your breast milk, but there are not enough studies to determine the effect of the medication on babies. There is a National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications to monitor the safety of certain medications during pregnancy. If you're currently pregnant and taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole), you're encouraged to enroll in the registry.
                        GoodRxEducationalIcon

                        How to save using GoodRx

                        Compare Prices
                        1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                        Select your free coupon
                        2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                        Show coupon to your pharmacist
                        3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                        Get free couponLearn more
                        warings-icon

                        What are the risks and warnings for Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)?

                        Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                        risk-warning

                        Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis

                        • Risk factors: Older adults with dementia-related psychosis

                          Older adults who also have dementia sometimes have some symptoms of schizophrenia, like hallucinations and delusions. This is called dementia-related psychosis, and it shouldn't be treated with Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole). If Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) is used for dementia-related psychosis, it can cause death. The cause of death is typically from heart problems, stroke, or infections. Let your provider know if you or your loved one has dementia before starting Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole).

                          risk-warning

                          Suicidal thoughts and behavior in children and young adults

                          • Risk factors: Children and young adults

                            Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) hasn't been studied for safety and effectiveness in children. Children and young adults have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior when taking antidepressants. Let your provider know if you or your child's behavior get worse or develop suicidal thoughts, especially in the first few months of starting this medication or when the dose changes. Ask family members or caregivers to pay attention to any thought and behavior changes as well.

                            risk-warning

                            Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

                            • Risk factors: Taking antipsychotic medications

                              Antipsychotic medications like Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause a rare but life-threatening reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Symptoms can include high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal pulse or blood pressure, fast heartbeat, sweating, and heart rhythm problems. Stop taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) and get emergency medical help if you experience any of those symptoms.

                              risk-warning

                              Difficulty controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)

                              • Risk factors: Older adults | Female and 65 years or older | Taking high doses of antipsychotic medications | Taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) for a long time

                                Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) might cause a type of movement problem that you can't control called tardive dyskinesia. This problem might be permanent, but sometimes it can go away after the medication is stopped. Although it can happen to anyone, the risk is higher in older adults, especially older females. The risk of tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it'll become permanent is also higher if you take this medication for a long period of time or if you take many antipsychotic medications at the same time. Let your provider know if you have movements that you can't control in your face, tongue, or other body parts while taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole).

                                risk-warning

                                High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and weight gain

                                • Risk factors: History of diabetes | History of high cholesterol | Obesity

                                  Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause high blood sugar levels. Although rare, sometimes high blood sugar levels can lead to high blood ketones, coma, or death. If you have diabetes or at risk of getting diabetes, your provider might have you monitor your blood sugar levels regularly while taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole). Let your provider know if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as frequent thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, or weakness.

                                  Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can also cause high cholesterol levels and weight gain, so these levels might be checked regularly throughout your treatment.

                                  risk-warning

                                  Intense urges

                                  Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) might cause people to develop intense urges that are hard to control. Let your provider know if you experience new urges or habits when taking Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole), such as gambling, sexual urges, shopping, eating or binge eating. If you start acting without thinking or having urges that you can't resist, your provider might adjust or stop your medication.

                                  risk-warning

                                  Risk of falling or low blood pressure upon standing

                                  • Risk factors: Older adults | History of heart problems | Dehydration | Taking medications that lower blood pressure

                                    Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause sleepiness, loss of balance, and low blood pressure, especially upon standing. These effects can raise the risk of falling, which can cause injuries. Let your provider know if you are taking other medications that also affect your blood pressure and make it easier to fall. Since Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can cause sleepiness and drowsiness, don't drive or operate any machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

                                    risk-warning

                                    Low white blood cells

                                    • Risk factors: People with low white blood cells | Taking medications that lower the white blood cell count

                                      Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) can lower your white blood cell (WBC) count. When you have low WBC levels, your body has a harder time fighting off germs and this puts you at a higher risk for infections. You might need to get lab work done regularly to make sure your WBC count is healthy. If the levels are too low, your provider might stop your medication. Talk to your provider right away if you experience symptoms of an infection, such as fever, weakness, or sore throat, while taking this medication.

                                      dosage

                                      Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) dosage forms

                                      Typical dosing for Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)

                                      • Schizophrenia: The typical dose is 10 mg to 15 mg by mouth once daily. The maximum dose is 30 mg per day.

                                      • Bipolar I disorder: The typical dose is 10 mg to 15 mg by mouth once daily, depending on whether or not you're taking it with lithium (Lithobid), valproic acid (Depakene), or divalproex (Depakote)). The maximum dose is 30 mg per day.

                                      • Major depressive disorder: The typical dose is 2 mg to 15 mg by mouth once daily. The maximum dose is 15 mg per day.

                                      interactions

                                      Interactions between Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) and other drugs

                                      Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                      alternatives

                                      What are alternatives to Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)?

                                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                      Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)
                                      Used for:

                                      • Schizophrenia

                                      • Bipolar I disorder

                                      • Major depressive disorder (add-on treatment)

                                      View Prices
                                      Aripiprazole (Abilify)
                                      Used for:
                                      $9.90 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                      Risperidone (Risperdal)
                                      Used for:

                                      • Schizophrenia - people ages 13 years and older

                                      • Manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder - people ages 10 years and older

                                      • Irritability associated with autism - children ages 5 to 17 years old

                                      $9.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

                                      Get savings updates for Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole)

                                      Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Abilify Mycite (aripiprazole) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                                      By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                                      Browse medications

                                      View All

                                      Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.