7 Abilify Alternatives to Consider

Updated 06/12/2024

Abilify (aripiprazole) is a medication prescribed to treat conditions like schizophrenia, major depressive disorder (MDD), and bipolar disorder. It’s in the class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics, which work by regulating levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin in the brain. This antipsychotic medication can help with emotion regulation, disorganized thinking, anger, delusions, concentration, and impulsivity, among other things.

While Abilify works well for some people, this antipsychotic treatment might not benefit everyone. Maybe these antipsychotics don’t offer the outcome you’re looking for, you have concerns about Abilify’s common side effects, or you’re like many people today who are looking for natural alternatives to Abilify.

Whatever your scenario may be, there are several other possibilities to consider instead of Abilify. Alternatives to Abilify include other antipsychotic medications such as Seroquel (quetiapine) and Latuda (lurasidone) and mood stabilizers like Lithobid (lithium) and Lamictal (lamotrigine). Additionally, non-medication options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise, and dietary changes can be effective in managing symptoms.

If you’re thinking about making a change to your antipsychotic medication, keep reading to learn more about Abilify alternatives. Then, have a discussion with your healthcare provider about these options for Abilify alternatives.

Alternative Medications to Abilify

People might want to make changes to their medication or antipsychotic treatment plan for a variety of reasons. Fortunately, there are multiple alternatives to Abilify for depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions. 

1. Vraylar

While Vraylar (cariprazine) is another different medication in the same class of drugs as Abilify, this atypical antipsychotic drug appears to have less severe adverse effects in some people. Vraylar is prescribed to treat MDD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Although, studies show that Abilify generally isn’t linked to excess weight gain in most people who take it. So, if you aren’t too worried about putting on weight due to an adverse reaction to the antipsychotic drugs you’re on, Vraylar might be one of the better antipsychotic alternatives to Abilify.

2. Rexulti

Rexulti (brexpiprazole) is another atypical antipsychotic medication. It can be a more potent prescription drug than Abilify, so typically, the dosage would be lower. That said, it works the same way Abilify and other antipsychotic drugs do by altering dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain.

Rexulti is FDA-approved to treat schizophrenia and major depressive disorder (MDD). When used for MDD, it’s generally prescribed in combination with other antidepressants. It can also be prescribed to manage agitation linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, and it’s sometimes used off-label for bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder (BPD).

3. Wellbutrin

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant in the class of drugs known as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). It’s generally much cheaper than Abilify, although some studies suggest that Abilify augmentation therapy might be more effective long-term when compared to Wellbutrin combination therapy for depression. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that drug interactions can work differently from person to person.

4. Celexa

Celexa (citalopram) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Antidepressants in this class of drugs work by preventing the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, raising levels to improve mood and treat depression. 

Celexa can be used to treat stress and anxiety, depression, and postpartum depression in some people. It’s known to cause more adverse effects than some other SSRIs, so monitoring how you’re reacting to Celexa will be crucial if you decide to try it instead of Abilify.

5. Seroquel 

Seroquel (quetiapine) is an atypical antipsychotic drug — like Abilify — approved by the FDA to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder (MDD). It is also used off-label for some other depressive disorders. Although both drugs are in the same class of drugs, they are not the same. Both work by altering dopamine and serotonin levels, but Abilify is also a selective stimulator as well. 

6. Latuda 

Latuda (lurasidone) is another atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder-related depression. This drug works by altering neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood, behavior, and thought processes. A key difference between Latuda and Abilify is the symptoms of bipolar I depression they are used to treat. Latuda can be used for depressive episodes, and Abilify treats manic or mixed episodes. 

Although Latuda isn’t FDA-approved for major depressive disorder, research shows it can be effective, and it’s sometimes used off-label for this purpose. 

7. Lithobid 

Lithobid (lithium) is a mood stabilizer that can reduce the intensity of bipolar manic episodes. It works by slowly altering sodium levels to stabilize mood swings and prevent extreme highs and lows. Both Lithobid and Abilify can be effective in treating certain aspects of bipolar disorder; which medication is right depends on the condition, symptoms, and individual response. 

8. Lamictal  

Lamictal (lamotrigine) is a triazine anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) drug that’s used as a mood stabilizer. It’s often prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and seizure disorders like epilepsy. Lamictal is usually well-tolerated by most people, but use must be closely monitored to avoid some (potentially serious) side effects. It’s not fully understood how Lamictal works, but research suggests it selectively binds to and then inhibits cell pathways known as sodium channels. 

Natural Alternatives to Abilify

Many people today looking for a natural alternative to Abilify seek out holistic treatments that focus on restoring chemical balance in the brain and body. Vitamins, minerals, and supplements, combined with environmental and lifestyle changes, can significantly improve overall mental well-being in some people.

One important note — it’s crucial that you don’t stop taking Abilify (or any prescription drug) without talking to your doctor first. Together, you’ll discuss your condition along with any other drugs or supplements you’re taking so you can decide on the best course of treatment for optimal outcomes. 

Talk therapy

Talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy) can be a very effective alternative to Abilify in some cases. However, most research shows that results can be significantly improved when therapy is used in combination with medication to treat depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. 

“Talk therapy is an effective treatment for mental health issues. Sometimes, there is a more serious mental illness such as depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, or bipolar disorder. In those cases, medication is usually prescribed for therapy to be effective. Medication or therapy on its own does not help the individual get better. Usually, a combination of both is needed to treat their symptoms effectively.”

– Talkspace therapist Bisma Anwar, LPC, LMHC

Dietary changes

When seeking any natural alternative to Abilify, don’t discount the power of making healthy choices and dietary changes. Simple modifications to your diet can enhance both physical and mental well-being. 

The first step is eliminating processed foods and artificial sweeteners and reducing sugar intake. Make an effort to eat whole foods, fresh vegetables and fruits, lean meats, and healthy fats — research suggests that a healthy diet might reduce the risk of depression. 

Probiotics

Probiotics have been linked to mental well-being and play a critical role in creating and maintaining a healthy gut. Some studies found that participants who take probiotics have lower stress levels and reduced anxiety and depression symptoms.  

Considerations for Switching to an Abilify Alternative

Before you stop taking Abilify or change medications, consult with a medical professional. Discussing your reasons for wanting to make a change will help you come up with alternatives to Abilify for bipolar, depression, or any other mental health condition that best suits your needs and treatment goals. Your healthcare provider will also discuss Abilify withdrawal symptoms to be aware of and develop a taper plan so you can safely discontinue use.

Find the Right Alternative with Talkspace 

Your path to mental wellness can be a long, arduous process if you’re trying to do it on your own. Talkspace’s online psychiatry services simplify solutions so you can find the best possible treatment plan and road to recovery. Talkspace offers direct access to licensed therapists and psychiatrists who can be your partner as you look for the best alternatives to Abilify. 

You shouldn’t try to find a new treatment plan on your own. Talkspace makes the experience easy, convenient, and affordable, with much-needed support and guidance to help you navigate any medication changes while adding holistic or lifestyle modifications that can enhance your health as much as possible. 

Reach out to Talkspace today to learn more about how you can meet your immediate and long-term mental health goals.