Abilify and ADHD: Understanding the Relationship & Approved Treatments

Abilify is the brand name for aripiprazole. It is an antipsychotic drug used to balance particular chemicals in the brain. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder resulting in hyperactivity and difficulty paying attention.

Treatment

• Abilify is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for ADHD at this time.

ADHD Medication

• Common medications listed by brand name used to treat ADHD include Adderall, Concerta, Dexedrine, Ritalin, Strattera, and Vyvanse.

Research

• Abilify's applications in treating ADHD are currently being researched. A study complete in May, 2009 by Tramontina et al. showed, "No significant treatment effect in ADHD symptoms was observed."

Approved Usage

• Abilify is used to treat mood and mental disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, aggression and agitation.

Warning

• Abilify comes with extensive warnings regarding side-effects, precautions and interactions.