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Patients Say Abilify Turned Them Into Compulsive Gamblers and Sex Addicts

  • November 29, 2016

One more time, people in other parts of the world were made aware of a dangerous substance before the U.S., and consequently many U.S. patients who took the antipsychotic Abilify are claiming they didn’t know it could give them side effects such as gambling and sex addictions, The Daily Beast reports.

Of course, lawsuits are pending, with over 1,000 ultimately expected. This drug has been on the radar for years. Handed out like candy, drugs like Abilify are swallowed trustingly by patients who are desperate for emotional and psychological relief, only to find, too late, there are unexpected side effects.

From violence and homicide to suicidal thoughts, and now gambling and sex addictions, these drugs have a history so concerning that in 2013, the American Psychiatric Association issued a statement urging doctors and patients to reconsider the practice of using anti-psychotic medications as the first line of treatment for dementia, behavior problems and insomnia.

Research shows that, contrary to popular belief, depression is not likely caused by unbalanced brain chemicals; however, there are a number of other biological factors that appear to be highly significant, such as chronic inflammation, unbalanced gut flora and vitamin D deficiency.

While there are times when a prescription drug may be helpful, studies have found that a placebo often works just as well — meaning there are other strategies you can try first, such as talk therapy, switching to a wholesome, organic diet and getting plenty of fresh air and exercise.

And, if you or someone you know is depressed or thinking of suicide, call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800) 273-TALK.