Does Abilify work and if so, how well? Or are the side effects stronger/worse? Is it worth taking it?

So, I finally went to go see a psychologist. I've gone through too many episodes and having a child now, I don't want to fall into the same thing. He diagnosed my symptoms as manic depression. He suggested we try Prozac first, but he also wants to try Abilify if that doesn't help. I mentioned to him that I'm not a strong believer in taking anti psychotics/depressants, but I'm willing to at least try it for the sake of my new child. I want to know real life experiences with Abilify. and Prozac if possible.

I understand your concerns. how did he diagnose you as manic depression. did he diagnose you as Bipolar or manic depressive. I guess they are about the same.
Abilify is like Depakote or other anti psychotics and can have harmful side effects. Some people tolerate it well. it comes in 2mg and 5mg tablets so I would just start the 2mg if at all.
If I had never tried psychiatric life saving drugs before I would start with an anti depressant and then work my way into abilify. but if you are under his care you may be fine.
This is the issue as I see it. If you start taking them BOTH at the same time you will never know which one is causing which side effect and therefore will never be able to guage its effectiveness.
So, I would start with the anti depressant for a good 6-8 week and get comfortable on that and then start the Abilify. This is not a doctor speaking, just someone with a lot of experience in this area. If you are having really bad manic depressive issues and may even have suicidal ideation or self harm issues than you have to start them both and that is probably why you were given them both.
Anyway, claim your right to make your own decision. get on web md and look up the side effects and I HOPE YOU FEEL BETTER
Take care,
Your assistant

That med is used for Bi POLAR disorder.it works wonders.Rated BEST.Might not work for you though. Everyones chemical balance is different what works for someone else might not work for you.it chilled me out but then after a month it happened I was in the hospital with the main side affect that could kill you.I was un able to take that med in that class I was allergic.my bodu swelled up ,I started shacking, couldnt move my jaw and one side of my face drooped.This med thing is a elimenating process till you find what works for you.you will find someting that will help.you might even need a cocktail of meds.Just keep in contact with your doc on how you are feeling on them so the sooner you will be on your way to a healthy miind

Does Abilify work and if so, how well? Or are the side effects stronger/worse? Is it worth taking it?

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