Rexulti (brexpiprazole) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used for three primary indications:
- Adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults: It is prescribed together with antidepressants to help treat depression in adults when initial antidepressant treatment alone does not provide sufficient relief[1][3][4][5].
- Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents ages 13 years and older: Rexulti is used to manage the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking[1][4][5][8].
- Treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease: It may be prescribed to address symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, and emotional outbursts in adults experiencing agitation from Alzheimer’s-related dementia. It is not intended for “as needed” (prn) use but only as part of a continuous treatment plan[1][3][4][5].
Rexulti works by modulating neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in mood, thought, and behavior regulation. The precise mechanism of Rexulti is not fully understood, but it is believed its efficacy comes from a combination of partial agonist activity at certain serotonin and dopamine receptors, and antagonist activity at other serotonin receptors[2][7][8].
Rexulti is not approved for treating dementia-related psychosis without agitation, nor for sporadic use in agitation from dementia; regular dosing is required[1][6].
References
- [1] Otsuka US: Rexulti-PI.pdf
- [2] Clinical Pharmacology – REXULTI® (brexpiprazole)
- [3] MedicalNewsToday: Rexulti Uses, Drug Class, Alternatives, and More
- [4] FDA: Rexulti Label (2025)
- [5] FDA: Rexulti Label (2023)
- [6] Otsuka US: Rexulti Medication Guide
- [7] WebMD: Rexulti (brexpiprazole) Uses, Side Effects, Interactions
- [8] NAMI: Brexpiprazole (Rexulti)