Rexulti (brexpiprazole) is a prescription drug that works to treat depression, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions by changing certain brain chemicals that regulate mood. Your response to this drug may vary based on your medical history and diagnosis.
Rexulti is prescribed to treat the following:
- depression (also known as major depressive disorder) in adults when taken with an antidepressant
- schizophrenia in adults and certain children
- agitation caused by dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease in adults
Rexulti contains the active drug brexpiprazole. It belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics.
Rexulti’s exact mechanism of action (MOA) isn’t known. It’s thought that it works by regulating the levels of two neurotransmitters — dopamine and serotonin — which are chemicals in your brain that regulate mood. These chemicals are thought to be irregular in people with the conditions Rexulti is approved to treat.
It may take a few days to several weeks for Rexulti to start reducing your symptoms. How quickly the drug works depends on individual factors, such as your condition and how your body responds to treatment.
For more information on what to expect with Rexulti treatment, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Medical PerspectiveHow do you know if Rexulti is working?
“When Rexulti is working in your body, you’ll notice an improvement in your overall mood and behavior. After a few weeks of taking Rexulti, your doctor will likely ask you questions about your symptoms and how you’re feeling. Depending on your condition, you’re likely to experience the following: reduced sadness, better concentration, less agitation and irritability, and an increased desire to be around others.
If your symptoms are not getting better after several weeks of taking the medication, your doctor will likely recommend switching to another medication”.
— Kristina D. Carter, PharmD, MBA, MHA
Quotes represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Disclaimer: While Healthline strives for factual, comprehensive, and current information, this article is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional’s expertise. Always consult a doctor before taking or discontinuing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, reactions, or adverse effects. The lack of a warning does not guarantee a drug’s safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for all patients or specific uses. Learn more about our approach to content integrity.