Key takeaways
Ziprasidone (Geodon) and aripiprazole (Abilify) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. Ziprasidone is taken twice daily with food, while aripiprazole is taken once daily and can be taken with or without food. Aripiprazole is available in more forms, including a liquid and dissolvable tablet, making it easier for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Both medications can cause weight gain, but the risk is lower with aripiprazole. Common side effects of ziprasidone include sleepiness and nausea, whereas aripiprazole often causes headaches and trouble sleeping. Additionally, aripiprazole is approved to treat more conditions, such as depression and irritability associated with autism in children. Both medications have serious risks, including movement problems and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, but aripiprazole also carries a risk of impulse-control problems.
