Key takeaways
Thiothixene (Navane) and aripiprazole (Abilify) are both used to treat schizophrenia, but they belong to different classes of antipsychotics. Thiothixene is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic, while aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic. Thiothixene primarily works by lowering dopamine levels in the brain, whereas aripiprazole affects both dopamine and serotonin activity. Thiothixene is generally taken multiple times a day, while aripiprazole is usually taken once daily. Aripiprazole is also approved for additional conditions like bipolar I disorder, depression (as an add-on treatment), Tourette syndrome, and irritability associated with autism, making it more versatile. Thiothixene is more likely to cause uncontrolled muscle movements, while aripiprazole has a lower risk of weight gain compared to other antipsychotics. Both medications can cause drowsiness and have serious side effects, including neuroleptic malignant syndrome and low white blood cell counts.
