Abilify and Compulsive Gambling

May 26, 2023

Medication that can cause gambling

Yes, according to the FDA, in some cases, the drug Abilify causes impulsive behaviors such as gambling. Abilify also results in compulsive urges to binge eat, shop, and have sex. In most cases, lowering the dose or stopping the drug completely curbs these behaviors. However, there may be larger issues at play that need to be addressed by a professional.

In the cases where patients report having urges of compulsive gambling, the behavior occurs within days to weeks of beginning to take aripiprazole. These patients have no prior history of gambling, and the behavior is tied to the medication Abilify. Fortunately, in many of these cases, gambling disorder subsides and ceases shortly after cessation of the drug.

Facts about Aripiprazole (Abilify, Abilify Maintena, Aristada)

Abilify is a brand name of aripiprazole. It is also sold under the brand names Aristada, Abilify Maintena, and other generics. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat major depressive disorder, OCD, Bipolar 1, schizophrenia, Tourette’s, and irritability in autistic patients.

The mechanism by which Abilify may contribute to compulsive behaviors, such as gambling, is not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that the medication's impact on certain neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, plays a role. Dopamine is a chemical in the brain associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation, and abnormalities in its regulation have been linked to addictive behaviors.

As a result of the connection between Abilify and gambling, multiple class action lawsuits have been filed against the makers of Abilify. These lawsuits focus on the manufacturer's failure to warn patients of the side effect of compulsive gambling.

Despite these potential side effects, Abilify is still prescribed and crucial to the treatment of certain populations. However, it is necessary to remain vigilant against side effects that can cause harm to the individuals taking the medication and their families and friends.

Can Other Medications Cause Gambling Addiction?

Abilify may not be the only drug linked to occurrences of gambling disorder. A study in Italy linked 94 suspected cases of compulsive gambling to apomorphine, aripiprazole, cabergoline, levodopa, levodopa and derivatives in association with entacapone/benserazide and carbidopa, pergolide, pramipexole, ropinirole, and rotigotine.

It is understood that dopamine agonists can result in behavioral disorders. If compulsive gambling occurs shortly after beginning a new medication, you should consult your doctor immediately to determine if gambling is a side effect of the new medication.

What are the symptoms of compulsive gambling?

Compulsive gambling, also called gambling disorder, is on the rise according to some reports. In the modern era, gambling has become more accessible. These days, gambling doesn't just occur at casinos. Gambling can happen online with a computer or phone. And gambling isn't just poker or slots; it can be lottery tickets known as scratchers, risky day trading, or involvement with crypto. Sports betting sites are popping up all the time.

With the advent of new technologies and constant access, gambling disorders may be easier to hide than ever. With that in mind, it is necessary to stay vigilant and take note of any behaviors that may fall under a gambling disorder.

If you suspect somebody may be developing a gambling disorder, whether or not it is linked to Abilify or similar drugs, there are some key signs to look for. These signs include:

  • Increasing preoccupation with gambling, constantly thinking about past wins or losses.

  • Inability to control or stop gambling.

  • Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.

  • Restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.

  • Chasing losses by returning to gambling to recoup previous losses.

  • Lying to family members, friends, or therapists about the extent of gambling involvement.

  • Jeopardizing relationships, employment, or educational opportunities due to gambling.

  • Resorting to illegal activities or borrowing money to finance gambling.

  • Experiencing feelings of guilt, remorse, or hopelessness after gambling.

  • Neglecting personal responsibilities and neglecting self-care due to excessive gambling.


It is estimated that gambling disorder affects 2% to 7% of youth and 1% of adults and, as mentioned, may be rising. While the current numbers may not be high, friends and family of a person suffering from the disorder are often unintentionally harmed so the true percentage of people impacted by gambling addiction is significantly higher. 

How do I handle Abilify and compulsive gambling?

If you or someone you know exhibits signs of gambling addiction while taking Abilify or any other medication, immediate consultation with a healthcare professional is essential. You may also feel the need to reach out or notify their doctor on their behalf.

Fortunately, if these signs emerge after recently starting Abilify or a similar drug, there is likely a cause for their sudden change in behavior, which is not always the case with a gambling disorder.

While reducing or stopping the medication may curb or completely eliminate the gambling disorder in the individual, it may be advisable to seek treatment or counseling specifically for the gambling disorder. A licensed therapist will be able to determine if the gambling disorder is directly tied to taking Abilify or is part of another undiagnosed issue.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling-related problems while taking Abilify or any other medication, consulting a healthcare professional is essential. They can evaluate the situation, provide guidance, and determine the best course of action. It is important to note that stopping or reducing medication without proper guidance can result in unintended side effects and may require medical attention. 

Treatment for Gambling Addiction

While there may be many causes, recognizing and addressing gambling addiction is crucial for individuals who may be affected. Gambling addiction is a treatable condition, and various therapeutic approaches have proven to be effective. Treatment options include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and modify their gambling-related thoughts and behaviors, as well as support groups and self-help programs such as Gamblers Anonymous.

References:

Signs of Gambling Addiction in a Spouse

Nov 30, 2023

Jonathan

​​Signs of Sex Addiction

Nov 27, 2023

Jonathan

Gambling and Divorce: Statistics and Information

Nov 26, 2023

Jonathan

What is DFS Gambling?

Nov 19, 2023

Jonathan

Addiction Specialist: Helping You Overcome Addiction

Nov 18, 2023

Jonathan

Exploring the Different Types of Gambling

Nov 8, 2023

Jonathan

Technology Addiction: Signs and Treatment

Oct 30, 2023

Jonathan

Is Sex Addiction Real? 

Oct 25, 2023

Jonathan

Is Options Trading Gambling?

Oct 23, 2023

Jonathan

Gambling Addiction and Treatment

Oct 16, 2023

Jonathan

Sex Addiction Treatment and Therapy Options

Oct 14, 2023

Jonathan

Signs of Gambling Addiction

Oct 7, 2023

Jonathan

Is the Stock Market Gambling?

Sep 25, 2023

Jonathan

Tips for Finding a Gambling Rehab Center

Sep 24, 2023

Jonathan

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Pathological Gambling

Sep 23, 2023

Jonathan

What Causes Porn Addiction?

Sep 18, 2023

Jonathan

Video Game Addiction

Sep 16, 2023

Jonathan

Porn Addiction Signs & Symptoms

Sep 11, 2023

Jonathan

Gambling Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms & Signs

Aug 29, 2023

Jonathan

How to Stop Online Gambling

Aug 27, 2023

Jonathan

Does Medicare Cover Gambling Rehab?

Aug 19, 2023

Jonathan

Gambling and Dopamine

Aug 12, 2023

Jonathan

How to Stop a Porn Addiction: Tips & Treatment

Aug 11, 2023

Jonathan

Porn Addiction Counseling

Aug 7, 2023

Jonathan

Is Fantasy Football Gambling?

Jul 24, 2023

Jonathan

Signs of a Day Trading Problem

Jul 19, 2023

Jonathan

Why is Gambling Addictive?

Jul 18, 2023

Jonathan

The Arizona Lottery and Gambling

Jul 16, 2023

Jonathan

Is Poker Gambling?

Jul 15, 2023

Jonathan

Is Crypto Gambling?

Jul 14, 2023

Jonathan

Gambling and Sports Betting Among College Students

Jul 8, 2023

Jonathan

Updates made to gambling disorder across the DSM-III, DSM-IV, DSM-5

Updates Made to Gambling Disorder Clinical Criteria Between DSM-III, DSM-IV, and DSM-5

Jul 8, 2023

Cara Anderson

Combatting Gambling and Alcohol Addiction

Jun 30, 2023

Jonathan

Medication for Gambling Addiction

Jun 27, 2023

Jonathan

The Seven Types of Gamblers: Are You One of Them?

Jun 25, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

10 Questions to Ask If You Think Your Loved One Has a Gambling Problem

Jun 24, 2023

Cara Anderson

Signs of a Sports Betting Problem

Jun 21, 2023

Jonathan

Las Vegas - often called the gambling capital of the world

Exploring the History of Gambling in the US

Jun 17, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Gambling Treatment in Arizona

Jun 15, 2023

Jonathan

Voluntary Self Exclusion to Stop Online Gambling

Jun 15, 2023

Cara Anderson

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Gambling Treatment?

Jun 13, 2023

Jonathan

The Growing Issue of Loot Box Addiction: What Parents Need to Know

Jun 11, 2023

Cara Anderson

Gambling Addiction Hotline

Jun 5, 2023

Jonathan

How to Stop Gambling

Jun 1, 2023

Jonathan

Can Gambling Addiction Be Cured?

May 31, 2023

Jonathan

problem gambler worried about addiction

Why Is Gambling So Addictive?

May 30, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Medication that can cause gambling

Abilify and Compulsive Gambling

May 26, 2023

Cara Anderson

A man who has regained control of his life by stopping gambling and online sports betting

How to Stop Gambling: Strategies for Regaining Control

May 21, 2023

Cara Anderson

This man stopped gambling by recognizing his online sports betting problem

How to Stop Gambling and Save Money

May 18, 2023

Cara Anderson

People celebrating being free of a gambling addiction

How to Help Someone with a Gambling Addiction

May 16, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

What is a Microbet and how does it contribute to online sports betting addiction

Microbets and Online Gambling Addiction

May 13, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

The Growing Phenomenon of Cryptocurrency Addiction: What Traders Need to Know About Crypto Addiction

Cryptocurrency Addiction

May 9, 2023

Tobias Jackson

Esports player competing in an esports match and having fans gamble on their play

The Rise of Esports Gambling

May 6, 2023

Cara Anderson

The stock market graph of a day trader who has a day trading addiction

How Day Trading Can Create a Dangerous Addiction

May 4, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Younger individuals gathered around a computer talking about a gambling addiction meme

How Addictive Memes Have Fueled Problem Gamblers

May 2, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Man in the middle of taking a Do I have a Gambling Problem Quiz

Clinical Screening Tools and Quizzes to Answer the Question: "Do I have a Gambling Problem?"

May 1, 2023

Tobias Jackson

This man has a Sports Betting Problem and is sitting in front of a tv watching his online sports bets lose.

Sports Betting Problems and What to Be Aware Of

Apr 30, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Insurance paperwork that Birches clients do not need to go through as Birches Health handles all administrative and payment matters for them!

Insurance Coverage for Gambling Addiction in 2023

Apr 29, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Man reading outside as he has stopped online sports betting

How to Stop Sports Betting

Apr 28, 2023

Cara Anderson

Couple hugging as the man has a gambling addiction and the woman, his loved one, is able to support him through it.

Helping a Loved One with a Gambling Addiction

Apr 27, 2023

Cara Anderson

Man actualizing self care and manifesting his recovery journey from problem gambling and gambling addiction

Self Care for Problem Gamblers

Apr 26, 2023

Cara Anderson

NCAA student athletes in college at university gathering to celebrate a great practice

Can NCAA Athletes Bet on Sports?

Apr 25, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Bad effects of glamorization of gambling in the media in films, tv shows, and podcasts

Glamorized Gambling and What To Be Aware Of

Apr 24, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

College students (youths and young adults) all gathered around a tv watching the athletic contest during March Madness

What is March Madness and Should You Be Worried?

Apr 22, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Basketball arena where spectators are gathering to watch a National Basketball Assocation (NBA) game and may be betting on sports and wagering on events and the outcome of the game

What is Sports Betting and Event Wagering?

Apr 21, 2023

Elliott Rapaport

Therapist offering a problem gambler gambling addiction counseling and treatment

What is Problem Gambling?

Apr 20, 2023

Elliott Rapaport