Key Points:
- Aripiprazole is FDA-approved for managing irritability in children with autism, but it can cause a range of side effects.
- Side effects can be mild, like drowsiness and weight gain, or more serious, such as movement disorders and hormonal changes.
- Understanding these effects helps parents make informed decisions and monitor their child’s treatment safely.
Every child with autism is different, and so is their response to treatment. Aripiprazole can be a helpful tool for managing severe behaviors, but parents often have concerns about its side effects. Knowing what to expect—and what’s not typical—can give you the clarity and confidence to support your child’s daily routine.
Can Aripiprazole Cause Side Effects in Children With Autism?
Yes. Aripiprazole, while helpful for managing certain behaviors in children with autism, can lead to both common and severe side effects that parents should be aware of.
What Is Aripiprazole and Why Is It Prescribed for Autism?
Aripiprazole, commonly sold under the brand name Abilify, is an antipsychotic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating irritability in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
It’s not meant to treat autism itself, but rather some of the challenging behaviors that may come with it, such as aggression, mood swings, tantrums, and self-injury. For many families, this medication brings relief—but it’s important to also understand the possible aripiprazole autism side effects.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Aripiprazole in Children With Autism?
When beginning a new medication, it helps to know what’s normal and what’s not. These are side effects that parents commonly report and that doctors typically monitor.
While every child responds differently, here are some of the more frequently observed side effects of aripiprazole in children with autism:
- Drowsiness or fatigue: One of the most reported effects. Many children may appear sleepier than usual, especially during the first weeks of treatment.
- Increased appetite and weight gain: Aripiprazole can trigger a stronger appetite, sometimes leading to rapid weight gain if not managed carefully.
- Drooling: Some children may experience excessive saliva production.
- Nausea or upset stomach: Mild digestive issues can occur, though they often subside over time.
- Restlessness (Akathisia): Children may feel an urge to move constantly, which can sometimes be mistaken for hyperactivity.
Most of these side effects are mild and often decrease as the body adjusts to the medication. However, it’s important to communicate any concerns with your child’s healthcare provider, especially if symptoms interfere with daily life.
What Are the More Serious or Rare Side Effects?
Beyond the more manageable symptoms, some side effects of aripiprazole in children with autism can be more serious. Awareness is key to early detection and intervention.
While rare, these side effects can be significant:
- Tardive Dyskinesia: Involuntary, repetitive body movements (especially in the face, tongue, or limbs) that may persist even after stopping the medication.
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but life-threatening reaction that includes muscle rigidity, high fever, and confusion. Seek emergency care immediately if suspected.
- Increased blood sugar and cholesterol: Aripiprazole can sometimes alter metabolic functions, which may raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Hormonal changes (such as elevated prolactin levels): This can lead to side effects like breast enlargement or milk production in both boys and girls.
- Seizures: Although rare, there’s a risk of seizures, especially in children with a seizure history.
It’s important to note that while these reactions are not common, regular check-ins with the prescribing physician—along with bloodwork and physical monitoring—can help catch these concerns early.
How Long Do Side Effects Last?
For many children, the more common side effects, like drowsiness and increased appetite occur during the first few weeks and may lessen over time. Parents often find that the body gradually adjusts and behaviors stabilize.
Severe side effects, if they occur, can develop over weeks or months. This is why it’s crucial to keep up with regular medical appointments, track behavioral and physical changes, and report any concerns right away. Long-term use requires careful consideration and close supervision by a pediatric psychiatrist.
How Can Parents Monitor and Manage Side Effects?
A proactive and informed approach can make a big difference in a child’s treatment journey. Here’s how parents can stay involved and help manage aripiprazole autism side effects.
Here are some helpful tips for monitoring:
- Keep a daily log: Track your child’s mood, sleep, appetite, behavior, and any physical symptoms.
- Stay consistent with appointments: Regular visits to your child’s doctor help assess both benefits and side effects.
- Ask about lab tests: Bloodwork to monitor metabolic and hormonal levels may be recommended every few months.
- Coordinate with therapists and teachers: Behavioral changes may also be noticeable in school or therapy settings.
- Discuss any concerns promptly: Never hesitate to reach out to the prescribing doctor if anything feels off.
Are There Alternatives to Aripiprazole?
Aripiprazole isn’t the only medication used for autism-related irritability. Risperidone is another FDA-approved drug that may be considered, though it has its own side effect profile. Other medications may be prescribed off-label depending on the child’s needs.
In addition to medication, many families see positive results with behavioral therapies, particularly Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These therapies target the root causes of behaviors and teach more adaptive skills, often reducing the need for medication over time.
How Can ABA Therapy Support Families Navigating Aripiprazole Treatment?
While aripiprazole can address specific behavioral challenges, ABA therapy focuses on building skills that promote long-term independence and emotional regulation. For children experiencing side effects—or who don’t respond well to medication—ABA offers a structured way to address behaviors without pharmacological intervention.
Therapists work closely with families to:
- Improve communication
- Reduce harmful or aggressive behaviors
- Increase attention and daily living skills
- Support positive social interactions
In many cases, a coordinated care plan that includes both medical and therapeutic support brings the most benefit to children with autism.
Get Help That Goes Beyond Medication: ABA Therapy in Nebraska, Colorado, and Iowa
If your child is taking aripiprazole or you’re exploring options to manage autism-related behaviors, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Spirit ABA offers expert, family-centered ABA therapy in Colorado, Iowa, and Nebraska. Our team works with children on the autism spectrum to build lasting skills in communication, behavior, and social development. Whether your child is on medication like aripiprazole or not, ABA therapy can help create a meaningful difference in their everyday life.
Medication can be one piece of the puzzle, but long-term progress often comes from learning, growing, and developing together. Reach out today to learn how ABA therapy in Nebraska, Colorado, and Iowa could support your child’s path forward.
