Abilify (aripiprazole) and Seroquel (quetiapine) are atypical antipsychotic medications used to manage schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), and other mental health conditions. While these medications can be highly effective in stabilizing mood and reducing psychotic symptoms, stopping them suddenly or improperly can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal from antipsychotic medications like Abilify and Seroquel can cause mood swings, insomnia, nausea, anxiety, and even a relapse of the original mental health condition. These symptoms can be distressing and, in some cases, dangerous without proper medical supervision.
At New Heights Recovery, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment and addiction support through our Addiction Program, Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Substance Abuse Treatment. If you or a loved one is considering discontinuing Abilify or Seroquel, it’s important to understand the risks, withdrawal symptoms, and best practices for a safe and comfortable transition.
What Are Abilify and Seroquel?
Abilify (Aripiprazole)
Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic commonly prescribed for:
- Schizophrenia – Helps manage hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
- Bipolar Disorder – Used to stabilize mood swings and prevent manic or depressive episodes.
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) – Used as an adjunct therapy alongside antidepressants.
- Irritability in Autism Spectrum Disorder – Prescribed to reduce aggression and mood instability.
How It Works:
- Abilify regulates dopamine and serotonin levels, reducing symptoms of psychosis and mood instability.
- Unlike some antipsychotics, it has lower sedation effects, making it preferred for patients who need daytime functionality.
Seroquel (Quetiapine)
Seroquel is a sedating atypical antipsychotic prescribed for:
- Schizophrenia – Helps reduce hallucinations and delusions.
- Bipolar Disorder – Controls manic and depressive episodes.
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) – Often used as a secondary treatment for severe depression.
- Anxiety and Insomnia (Off-Label Use) – Due to its sedative effects, it is sometimes prescribed for sleep disorders and anxiety.
How It Works:
- Seroquel blocks dopamine and serotonin receptors, reducing symptoms of psychosis and mood instability.
- It has strong sedative properties, making withdrawal symptoms like insomnia and agitation more severe.
Why Does Withdrawal Happen?
Both Abilify and Seroquel alter brain chemistry over time, helping regulate neurotransmitters that affect mood, perception, and cognition. When these medications are stopped suddenly, the brain struggles to adjust, leading to withdrawal symptoms.
Factors That Increase Withdrawal Severity:
- Long-term use – The longer a person takes the medication, the more the brain depends on it for neurotransmitter balance.
- Abrupt discontinuation – Stopping suddenly instead of tapering can lead to severe symptoms.
- High dosage – Higher doses generally result in more intense withdrawal effects.
- Pre-existing mental health conditions – Stopping without proper medical oversight can trigger relapse or worsening symptoms.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms of Abilify & Seroquel
Psychological Symptoms:
- Mood swings – Irritability, anger, depression, or euphoria.
- Increased anxiety – Panic attacks or a sense of overwhelming worry.
- Rebound psychosis – Worsening of schizophrenia or bipolar symptoms.
- Hallucinations and paranoia – In rare cases, withdrawal can trigger severe mental distress.
Physical Symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting – Common when stopping antipsychotics abruptly.
- Insomnia – Particularly severe with Seroquel withdrawal, leading to restlessness and agitation.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness – Caused by sudden dopamine regulation changes.
- Headaches and muscle weakness – A sign of withdrawal stress on the nervous system.
Severe Withdrawal Symptoms (Require Immediate Medical Attention):
- Suicidal thoughts or self-harm urges – Can occur due to mood instability.
- Severe aggression or agitation – Uncontrolled emotional outbursts.
- Seizures (rare but possible) – Sudden medication discontinuation may increase seizure risk.
How Long Does Abilify & Seroquel Withdrawal Last?
The duration of withdrawal varies based on dosage, length of use, and individual factors.
| Timeframe | Withdrawal Symptoms |
|---|---|
| First 24-72 hours | Anxiety, nausea, dizziness, mood swings, insomnia |
| Days 3-7 | Increased agitation, headaches, digestive issues, restlessness |
| Week 2 | Rebound depression or psychosis, muscle fatigue, sleep disturbances |
| Weeks 3-4 | Symptoms improve, but emotional instability may persist |
| 1-3 months | Long-term withdrawal effects gradually fade, therapy is recommended |
How to Safely Manage Abilify & Seroquel Withdrawal
1. Gradual Tapering
A doctor-supervised tapering schedule minimizes withdrawal symptoms by reducing dosage over weeks or months.
- Reducing Seroquel too quickly can cause severe insomnia and anxiety.
- Stopping Abilify suddenly can increase psychotic symptoms or extreme mood swings.
2. Medical Detox Support
For individuals experiencing severe withdrawal, a medically supervised detox ensures a safe transition off medication.
3. Behavioral Therapy & Mental Health Treatment
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps manage mood swings and emotional instability.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches coping skills for emotional regulation.
- Group Therapy – Provides a supportive recovery environment.
4. Medication Management
Alternative medications may be used to ease withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Melatonin or Trazodone for insomnia.
- Antidepressants for mood stabilization.
- Anti-anxiety medications for severe agitation.
5. Holistic Support for Recovery
Incorporating healthy lifestyle changes can reduce withdrawal severity:
- Proper Nutrition – Supports brain recovery.
- Exercise & Movement – Naturally boosts mood-regulating chemicals.
- Mindfulness & Meditation – Helps manage stress and anxiety.
Why Choose New Heights Recovery for Withdrawal Support?
At New Heights Recovery, we specialize in mental health treatment and medication withdrawal support. Our programs provide a structured, medically supervised environment for individuals discontinuing Abilify or Seroquel.
Our Programs Include:
1. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP):
- Intensive daily care with therapy, medication management, and group support.
- Ideal for individuals needing structured support but not full hospitalization.
2. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP):
- Flexible treatment for those transitioning from inpatient care.
- Includes individual therapy, medication support, and coping strategies.
3. Addiction & Mental Health Treatment:
- Dual-diagnosis care for co-occurring conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
- Comprehensive support for safe medication withdrawal.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one is experiencing Abilify or Seroquel withdrawal, professional support can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and ensure mental stability.
Call New Heights Recovery today at (614) 858-8826 or contact us online to learn more about our Addiction Program, PHP, IOP, and Mental Health Treatment programs. You don’t have to go through this alone—help is available.
FAQs on Abilify & Seroquel Withdrawal
Why do people experience withdrawal from Abilify or Seroquel?
Abilify and Seroquel alter brain chemistry by regulating dopamine and serotonin. When discontinued too quickly, withdrawal symptoms occur as the brain readjusts.
What are common withdrawal symptoms of Abilify and Seroquel?
Symptoms include mood swings, insomnia, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, fatigue, and, in some cases, rebound psychosis or severe depression.
How long does Abilify or Seroquel withdrawal last?
Withdrawal can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the dosage, duration of use, and individual health factors.
Is it dangerous to stop Abilify or Seroquel suddenly?
Yes, abrupt discontinuation can cause severe symptoms such as panic attacks, hallucinations, aggressive behavior, and suicidal thoughts. Gradual tapering is recommended.
How can withdrawal symptoms be managed safely?
A medically supervised tapering process, along with professional support, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, can ease withdrawal symptoms.
Can withdrawal from Abilify or Seroquel trigger a relapse?
Yes, stopping medication suddenly can lead to a return of the original condition, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression.
Are there alternative treatments to help with withdrawal?
Yes, options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), holistic wellness practices, and temporary medication management can help during withdrawal.
What professional treatment options are available for withdrawal?
New Heights Recovery offers Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and comprehensive mental health treatment for medication withdrawal.
