Key takeaways
Aripiprazole (Abilify) and paliperidone (Invega) are both atypical antipsychotics, but they have some key differences. Aripiprazole is used to treat a wider range of conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, depression (as an add-on treatment), Tourette syndrome, and irritability associated with autism in children. In contrast, paliperidone is primarily used for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Aripiprazole is available in various forms, such as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral solutions, while paliperidone is available as an extended-release tablet Both medications are also available in injectable forms. Both medications can cause weight gain, but aripiprazole is less likely to do so compared to other antipsychotics. Common side effects of aripiprazole include headache, agitation, and trouble sleeping, whereas paliperidone commonly causes abnormal muscle movements, drowsiness, and headaches. Additionally, both aripiprazole and paliperidone can lead to higher prolactin levels, which may cause sexual dysfunction and other hormonal issues. Both medications carry risks of serious side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome and tardive dyskinesia, but they differ somewhat in their specific warnings and side effect profiles.
