Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is aripiprazole. You may hear it called by the brand name 'Abilify'. 

This medicine can help you feel better mentally and have fewer mood swings. It can take several weeks to start working. You can take each dose with or without food, but be sure to swallow the tablet whole. 

Common side effects can occur, like a headache, upset stomach or problems sleeping. You might feel drowsy. You should wait until you know how it affects you before doing activities that require you to be alert, like driving or riding a bike. You might feel dizzy, so you should stand up slowly after sitting or lying down. These effects are normal if they are mild, and should go away. If these or other effects become reasons you want to stop taking it, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But, don't stop taking it unless your doctor says it's okay. 

Tell your doctor if you feel restless, gain weight, or if you have diabetes and your blood sugar readings are high. Women should talk to their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding.

As with any medicine, rare but more serious side effects could occur. You should read the Medication Guide to know what to watch for. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow you closely and will order blood tests. Always call your doctor right away if thoughts of suicide, or worsening moods or behaviors happen, especially in children or young adults. 

Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, and do not drink alcohol.  Also, it's important to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid getting overheated. 

For best results with aripiprazole, take it exactly as prescribed.