Abilify and compulsive behavior problems have been linked in a growing number of reports, citing gambling, sex, and shopping addictions.

Indeed, although Abilify and compulsive behavior problems are different than traditional drug side effects, these complications can cause both mental and financial problems for patients and their families.

These compulsive behaviors can be extremely detrimental, and can have lasting effects long beyond the usage of the drug.

Abilify Background

Abilify (also known by its generic name, aripiprazole) is a popular antipsychotic medication manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceuticals and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Abilify is used to treat a variety of mental disorders, including schizophrenia and depression.

Since Abilify was released onto the antipsychotic market, it has grown to bring in billions of dollars annually. However, even though the drug is overwhelmingly popular, concerning reports have tied together Abilify and compulsive behaviors.

Abilify and Compulsive Behavior Side Effects

It is to be expected that a medication will come with certain side effects. Many drugs warn of mild complications like nausea and rashes, but Abilify dangers may have a more lasting effect.

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine noted a significant connection between the use of dopamine receptor agonists like Abilify and compulsive behavior problems like gambling, sex addiction, and compulsive shopping.

Impulse control manifesting in such problems as gambling addiction, compulsive shopping, and sex addiction not only affects an Abilify patient’s day-to-day life, but can also cause major problems for their family, such as in the case of financial stability.

For instance, compulsive gambling can be so severe that people who suffer from it are driven to gamble even when they do not have the money to do so. Because of this, some gamble with credit cards or borrow money, which can land patients in extremely steep debt. This may not cause physical harm, but it can ruin lives. The same holds true for shopping addiction.

On top of these financial issues, these compulsive behaviors can tear a person away from their family, making them unable to function as they normally would.

For those suffering from impulse behavior, it can be very difficult to recover and return to normal life. On top of this, even when patients do manage to recover from the mental effects of Abilify and compulsive behavior, they may still be left with severe debt and the familial consequences.

Abilify and Compulsive Behavior Lawsuits

An increasing number of lawsuits with reports of impulse control problems have been filed against Abilify manufacturers in recent months. More still have been filed over the dopamine receptor agonist class in general, of which Abilify is just one.

Abilify and similar drugs are currently being investigated in the United States to determine their dangers. Similar dopamine receptor agonists have been targeted in other lawsuits.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by the effects of Abilify and compulsive behavior problems like sex, gambling, or shopping addictions, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit over Abilify dangers.