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Compare Abilify vs. Lexapro

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Aripiprazole (Abilify) and escitalopram (Lexapro) are both medications used to treat mental health conditions, but they belong to different medication classes. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and as an add-on for depression, while escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) primarily used for depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Aripiprazole is available in various forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral solutions, and is taken once daily. Escitalopram is available as a tablet and oral solution and is also taken once daily. Both medications are available in a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of aripiprazole include headache, agitation, and trouble sleeping, whereas escitalopram may cause nausea, trouble sleeping, and dizziness. Both can interact with a number of other medications, so be sure your prescriber and pharmacist have a complete list of your medications.

  • Aripiprazole (Abilify)
    Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Aripiprazole (Abilify)
    Escitalopram (Lexapro)

  • Summary of Abilify vs. Lexapro

    Summary for Atypical antipsychotic
    Prescription only

    Aripiprazole (Abilify) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat different mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. It works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain to help control thoughts, mood, and behaviors. It's available in many dosage forms, including an oral tablet, solution, and an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that can be used in adults and children as young as 6 years old for certain conditions. Common side effects include headache, movement problems, and sleep problems.

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    Escitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. The medication is available as a tablet and oral solution, in both brand and generic forms. A dose is typically taken by mouth once per day. Some common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and dizziness.

  • Indications of Abilify vs. Lexapro

    Indications for
    •Schizophrenia
    •Tourette syndrome in children
    •Bipolar I disorder
    •Depression (add-on treatment)
    •Irritability associated with autistic disorder in children
    Indications for
    •Depression in people ages 12 years and older
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Abilify vs. Lexapro

    Pros and Const for Atypical antipsychotic
    Pros
    •Only taken once a day
    •Available in a liquid and dissolvable tablet for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    •Less likely to cause weight gain than most other antipsychotics
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can make you feel restless
    •Risk of movement problems that can be permanent
    •Can raise blood sugar and cholesterol
    •Can take several weeks to see the full effects
    Pros and Const for SSRI
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for anxiety and depression
    •Only need to take it once a day
    •Generally has fewer side effects compared to other antidepressants
    •Can be taken with or without food
    Cons
    •Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits
    •Risk of certain sexual problems
    •Can raise your risk for bleeds
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

  • Common Side Effects of Abilify vs. Lexapro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (27%)
    •Agitation (19%)
    •Trouble sleeping (18%)
    •Anxiety (17%)
    •Nausea (15%)
    •Vomiting (11%)
    •Constipation (11%)
    •Dizziness (10%)
    •Trouble staying still (10%)

    Note: Side effects were reported by adults who took aripiprazole in clinical studies for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (24%)
    •Nausea (15-18%)
    •Ejaculation problems (9-14%)
    •Sleepiness (6-13%)
    •Trouble sleeping (9-12%)
    •Dry mouth (6-9%)
    •Diarrhea (8%)
    •Tiredness (5-8%)

  • Warnings of Abilify vs. Lexapro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
    •Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
    •High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and weight gain
    •Difficulty controlling movements
    •Changes in blood pressure and higher risk of falls
    •Risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Seizures
    •Impulse-control problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Stopping escitalopram (Lexapro) too suddenly
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Glaucoma
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Sexual problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Abilify vs. Lexapro

    Learn more about Aripiprazole
    Learn more about Escitalopram

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