Rexulti (brexpiprazole)
Rexulti is a brand-name oral tablet prescribed for certain mental health conditions. Rexulti contains the active ingredient brexpiprazole and belongs to the antipsychotic drug class.
Specifically, Rexulti is FDA approved to treat the following: depression in adults, in combination with antidepressants agitation related to dementia in adults with Alzheimer’s disease schizophrenia in adults and children ages 13 years and older Drug details You’ll find key information about Rexulti here: Drug form: oral tablet Generic available? no Prescription required? yes Controlled substance? no As a person’s condition progresses, they may need help reading or understanding information regarding their circumstances. This article contains details that may help caregivers learn more about Rexulti.
If you have thoughts of suicide, call 911 or your local emergency number. In the United States, you can also call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
Rexulti generic Rexulti is available only as a brand-name medication. It’s not currently available in generic form.
A generic drug is an exact copy of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication. Generics usually cost less than brand-name drugs.
Rexulti uses This section describes Rexulti’s approved uses. Rexulti for depression Rexulti is approved to treat depression in adults.
Depression is a mental health condition that may lead to ongoing feelings of hopelessness and a lack of interest in daily life. Other symptoms may include fatigue and changes in appetite or body weight.
For this purpose, Rexulti may be prescribed with antidepressants. Examples of antidepressants that doctors may prescribe with Rexulti include: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) , such as sertraline ( Zoloft ) and fluoxetine ( Prozac ) serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) , such as duloxetine ( Cymbalta ) and venlafaxine ( Effexor XR) You can learn more about depression by visiting our depression hub.
Rexulti for dementia-related agitation Rexulti is approved to treat agitation related to dementia in adults with Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia is a condition that can affect memory, thinking, and communication.
Agitation may include symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, or emotional outbursts. These symptoms can happen with Alzheimer’s disease because the condition affects how the brain manages behavior and emotions.
Rexulti is not prescribed for occasional treatment of agitation. Instead, it’s meant to be taken as part of an ongoing treatment plan.
To learn more about this condition, visit our dementia hub. Rexulti for schizophrenia Rexulti is approved to treat schizophrenia in adults and children ages 13 years and older.
Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Symptoms may include delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thoughts or speech.
You can learn more about schizophrenia by viewing this list of schizophrenia articles. Rexulti and children Rexulti is approved to treat schizophrenia in children ages 13 years and older.
To learn more about this condition, see the “Rexulti for schizophrenia” section. Common questions about Rexulti Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Rexulti.
How long does Rexulti stay in your system? Rexulti may stay in your system for about 3 weeks after your final dose.
The exact amount of time can vary based on several factors, such as how long you’ve been taking the drug and your overall health. If you have other questions about how long Rexulti may stay in your system, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Is Rexulti an SSRI or an antipsychotic? Rexulti is not a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) , but it is an atypical antipsychotic.
SSRIs are a type of antidepressant used to treat mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. While Rexulti is used to treat depression, it’s not classified as an antidepressant.
Instead, it may be prescribed along with an antidepressant, such as an SSRI. If you have questions about how Rexulti compares with SSRIs, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
They can help explain how each type of medication works and what may be right for you. Which drug class does Rexulti belong to?
Rexulti belongs to a group of drugs called antipsychotics. More specifically, it’s an atypical antipsychotic, which is a newer type of antipsychotic drug.
If you have other questions about Rexulti or its drug class, talk with your doctor. Is Rexulti used to treat ADHD?
No, Rexulti is not approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The drug is approved to treat other mental health conditions. (For details, see the “Rexulti uses” section.) Other medications are approved to treat ADHD.
Examples include atomoxetine ( Strattera ), lisdexamfetamine dimesylate ( Vyvanse ), and amphetamine/dextroamphetamine ( Adderall, Adderall XR ). To learn more about treatment options for ADHD, talk with your doctor.
They can recommend the medication that’s right for your condition. How long does Rexulti take to work, and to start working?
Rexulti may start working within a couple of weeks after your first dose. However, it can take longer to notice the full effects of the drug.
Some people may have small reductions in symptoms early on, such as changes in mood or thinking.
For some conditions, it may take several weeks to notice the full benefits of Rexulti. How quickly Rexulti starts working can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as your condition and dosage.
If you have questions about what to expect during Rexulti treatment, talk with your doctor. They can explain your treatment plan and help you know when to expect results.
Rexulti dosage The Rexulti dosage your doctor prescribes will depend on several factors. These include: the type and severity of the condition you’re taking Rexulti to treat your age other medications you may take other medical conditions you may have, including your body’s ability to break down Rexulti The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended.
However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you.
Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs. Drug forms and strengths Rexulti comes as an oral tablet.
It’s available in the following strengths: 0.25 milligrams (mg) 0.5 mg 1 mg 2 mg 3 mg 4 mg Dosage for depression Rexulti is prescribed to treat depression in adults. For this use, the starting dosage of Rexulti is 0.5 or 1 mg once daily.
Your doctor may increase your dosage to 2 mg once daily over the first 1 to 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dosage of Rexulti for depression is 3 mg once daily.
Dosage for dementia-related agitation Rexulti is prescribed to treat agitation related to dementia in adults with Alzheimer’s disease. For this use, the starting dosage of Rexulti is 0.5 mg once daily for the first 7 days.
Beginning on day 8, your doctor will increase the dosage to 1 mg once daily for the next 7 days. Starting on day 15, your doctor may increase the dosage to 2 mg once daily.
The maximum recommended dosage of Rexulti for dementia-related agitation is 3 mg once daily. Dosage for schizophrenia Rexulti is prescribed to treat schizophrenia in adults.
For this use, the starting dosage of Rexulti is 1 mg once daily for the first 4 days. Beginning on day 5, your doctor will increase the dosage to 2 mg once daily for the next 3 days.
Starting on day 8, your doctor may increase the dosage up to 4 mg once daily, depending on how your condition responds to treatment. The maximum recommended dosage of Rexulti for schizophrenia is 4 mg once daily.
Children’s dosage Rexulti is prescribed to treat schizophrenia in children ages 13 years and older. To start treatment, doctors typically prescribe 0.5 mg once daily for the first 4 days.
This is followed by 1 mg once daily for the next 3 days. After the first week, the dosage may be increased up to 4 mg once daily, depending on how well the child’s condition responds to treatment.
The maximum recommended dosage of Rexulti for schizophrenia in children is 4 mg once daily.
About taking
Rexulti You’ll find information about key dosage issues here: ### When to take: You should take Rexulti once daily. If you miss a dose: If you do miss a dose of Rexulti, take it as soon as you remember.
However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip your missed dose and take your next dose at its usual time.
If you aren’t sure whether to take your missed dose or skip it, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Taking Rexulti with food: You can take Rexulti with or without food.
Crushing, splitting in half, or chewing Rexulti: The manufacturer of Rexulti doesn’t specify whether the tablets can be crushed, split, or chewed. If you have trouble swallowing Rexulti tablets, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Length of use: Rexulti is meant to be a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Rexulti is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take it long term.
Overdose Do not take more Rexulti than your doctor recommends. For some drugs, doing so may lead to unwanted side effects or overdose.
What to do in case you take too much Rexulti If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor. You can also call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool.
However, if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
Rexulti side effects Rexulti can cause mild or serious side effects. The following lists contain some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Rexulti.
These lists do not include all possible side effects. Side effects may differ slightly depending on the condition Rexulti is used to treat.
For more information about the possible side effects of Rexulti, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can give you tips on how to manage any side effects that may be concerning or bothersome.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. Sharing your experience helps make medications safer for everyone by giving doctors and researchers more information about how the drug works in real life.
If you develop a side effect while taking Rexulti and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch or call 800-FDA-1088. Mild side effects Here is a partial list of mild side effects of Rexulti.
To learn about other mild side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist, or view Rexulti’s prescribing information. Mild side effects of Rexulti can include: urinary tract infection (UTI) sleepiness or insomnia nausea indigestion headache fatigue dizziness diarrhea constipation the common cold anxiety (see “Side effect details”) weight gain or weight loss (see “Side effect details”) Most of these side effects may go away within a few days to a couple of weeks.
However, if they become more severe or don’t go away, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious side effects Serious side effects from Rexulti aren’t common, but they can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects.
Call 911 or your local emergency phone number if your symptoms feel life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects can include: extrapyramidal symptoms (a group of movement disorders), which may include: akathisia (restlessness or an urgency to move) tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements that typically affect the face) parkinsonism (involuntary movements that typically affect the whole body) changes in metabolism, which may lead to: high cholesterol or triglyceride levels high blood sugar or type 2 diabetes weight gain orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing), which may include symptoms such as: falling or fainting blurred vision dizziness seizures, which may include symptoms such as: loss of consciousness muscle spasms or jerking movements confusion difficulty ## managing body temperature, which may include symptoms such as: decreased sweating dehydration headache difficulty swallowing, which may include symptoms such as: choking, gagging, or coughing when swallowing drooling feeling as though food is stuck in the throat or chest neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a rare condition that affects the nervous system), which may include symptoms such as: fever changes in blood pressure or heart rate excessive sweating low white blood cell levels, which may not cause symptoms but can be detected with a blood test intense and uncontrollable urges to perform certain activities, such as gambling, shopping, or eating difficulty with thinking or movement, which may affect the ability to drive changes in sex drive (see “Side effect details”) increased risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis * risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in children and young adults* * Rexulti has a boxed warning for this side effect.
This is the most serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the “Rexulti precautions” section.
Side effect details This section contains some details about certain Rexulti side effects. Anxiety New or worsened anxiety was a less common side effect in clinical trials of
Rexulti for depression.
This side effect wasn’t reported in clinical trials of the drug for dementia-related agitation or schizophrenia.
Symptoms
of anxiety may include a fast
heart rate, muscle tension, and difficulty breathing. If you have new or worsening anxiety while taking Rexulti, talk with your doctor.
They can help you decide whether it’s safe to keep taking the drug or if a change in your treatment plan is needed. Weight gain or weight loss Weight gain was a common side effect in clinical trials of Rexulti, while weight loss was less commonly reported.
If you have concerns about managing your weight while taking Rexulti, talk with your doctor. They can recommend ways to maintain a weight that’s healthy for you.
Changes in sex drive Rexulti may cause changes in sex drive. Specifically, the drug may cause sexual urges that are intense and difficult to manage.
This side effect wasn’t reported in clinical trials of Rexulti, but it has been reported since the drug became available. If you notice changes in your sex drive while taking Rexulti, talk with your doctor.
They can help you decide whether to keep taking the drug or switch to a different treatment. ALLERGIC REACTION For some people, Rexulti can cause an allergic reaction .
But this side effect wasn’t reported in the drug’s clinical trials.
In general, symptoms of an allergic reaction can be mild or serious. Ways to manage For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away.
They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep taking the medication.
For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening.
If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Rexulti, your doctor may recommend a different medication instead. How Rexulti works Rexulti contains the active ingredient brexpiprazole, which belongs to the atypical antipsychotic drug class.
See this how Rexulti works article to learn how the drug works to treat the conditions it’s approved for. Alternatives to Rexulti Other drugs are available that can treat your condition.
Some may be a better fit for you than others.
If you’re interested in finding an alternative to Rexulti, talk with your doctor. They can tell you about other medications that may work well for you.
Examples of drugs that are alternatives to Rexulti include: other antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole ( Abilify , Mezofy, others) and cariprazine ( Vraylar ) antidepressants , such as sertraline ( Zoloft ) and duloxetine ( Cymbalta ) Rexulti interactions Rexulti can interact with several other medications. It can also interact with certain supplements and foods.
Before taking Rexulti, talk with your doctor and pharmacist. Tell them about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take.
Also tell them about any vitamins , herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential Rexulti interactions.
Interactions with medications, supplements, and foods Here is a list of medications, supplements, and foods that can interact with Rexulti. This list does not contain all drugs that may interact with Rexulti.
If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Medications that can interact with Rexulti • certain antifungals , such as ketoconazole and itraconazole (Sporanox, Tolsura) • rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane) • quinidine Supplements that can interact with Rexulti St.
John’s wort Foods that can interact with Rexulti grapefruit Alcohol interaction Alcohol is not known to interact with Rexulti. However, drinking alcohol while taking Rexulti may worsen certain side effects.
Examples include headache, fatigue, and dizziness. If you have questions about how much alcohol is safe to drink while taking Rexulti, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Rexulti cost and coupons As with all medications, the cost of Rexulti can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.
Drug coupons: You can visit Optum Perks for price estimates of Rexulti. These estimates are based on the use of Optum Perks coupons.
Note: Optum Perks coupons cannot be used with insurance copays or benefits. Financial and insurance assistance: If you need financial support to pay for Rexulti or help understanding your insurance coverage, help is available.
A savings card is available for Rexulti. For more information and to find out if you’re eligible for support, visit the program website.
Generic version: Rexulti is not available in a generic form. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication.
Generics tend to cost less than brand-name drugs. Learn more about saving money on prescriptions and Rexulti’s cost with Medicare.
Optum Perks is owned by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission.
Learn more. Things to consider when taking Rexulti If you can become pregnant, consider the following information about pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Rexulti and pregnancy It’s not known whether Rexulti should be taken during pregnancy. There have been reports of side effects in infants born to people who took antipsychotics, such as Rexulti, during their last 3 months of pregnancy.
If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor before taking this medication. If your doctor prescribes Rexulti during pregnancy, consider enrolling in the drug’s pregnancy registry.
This registry collects information about Rexulti’s safety when taken during pregnancy. You can learn more at the pregnancy registry website or by calling 866-961-2388.
Rexulti and breastfeeding It’s not known whether Rexulti should be taken while breastfeeding. If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before taking this medication.
Rexulti vs. Abilify You may wonder how Rexulti compares with other medications that are prescribed for similar uses.
For example, find out how Rexulti compares to Abilify.
Rexulti precautions FDA warnings This drug has boxed warnings. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous. Increased risk of death in certain older adults: ## Treatment with
Rexulti may increase the risk of death in adults ages 65 years and older who have dementia-related psychosis.
Dementia is a condition that can affect memory, thinking, and communication. Psychosis is a mental health condition that may cause confusion, hallucinations, or a loss of touch with reality.
This risk was not specifically reported in clinical trials of Rexulti. However, antipsychotics are thought to increase this risk. (Rexulti is an antipsychotic .) Antipsychotics may also increase the risk of stroke in older adults with dementia-related psychosis.
A stroke can be life threatening.
Symptoms
of a stroke may include confusion
, sudden headache, or weakness on one side of your face or body. If you have stroke symptoms during Rexulti treatment, call 911 or a local emergency number right away.
Due to these risks, doctors typically recommend other treatments for older adults with dementia-related psychosis. Risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in certain people: ## Treatment with
Rexulti may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in people ages 24 years and younger.
This risk was not specifically reported in clinical trials of Rexulti. However, this warning is based on studies of other medications used to treat depression. (Rexulti is used to treat depression in adults.) During treatment, your doctor will likely monitor you for changes in mood or behavior.
They may also ask you, your family, or close friends to watch for warning signs. These may include feeling more agitated or irritable or having thoughts of self-harm or death.
If you have questions about this risk or notice changes in your mental health, talk with your doctor right away. Other precautions Before taking Rexulti, discuss your health history with your doctor.
Rexulti may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. Be sure to talk with your doctor if any of the following apply to you: liver or kidney problems high cholesterol or triglyceride levels high blood sugar or diabetes seizures stroke or cerebrovascular disease (a group of conditions that affect blood flow to your brain) blood pressure or heart problems previous allergic reaction to this or a similar drug pregnancy breastfeeding Note: For more information about the potential negative effects of Rexulti, see the “Rexulti side effects” section.
Help is out there If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support: Call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Caring counselors are available to listen and provide free and confidential support 24/7.
Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor for free and confidential support 24/7. Not in the United States?
Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders Worldwide. Call 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel safe to do so.
If you’re calling on behalf of someone else, stay with them until help arrives. You may remove weapons or substances that can cause harm if you can do so safely.
If you’re not in the same household, stay on the phone with them until help arrives. Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date.
However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional.
You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects.
The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
