Rexulti is the brand name of the medication brexpiprazole, an antipsychotic medication that works by changing the actions of the chemicals in your brain. This medication can also be used to treat some of the symptoms of schizophrenia, and has the potential to be paired with other medications by your doctor to help treat the adult major depressive disorder.

Rexulti has not been approved for treating psychotic conditions associated with dementia, as there is a chance that it may increase the risk of dying. This medication is also not approved for use in anyone under the age of eighteen. In certain cases, some young people may experience thoughts about committing suicide when they first start taking this medication.  Be aware of and track changes in your symptoms or mood, and be sure to report any worsening or new symptoms to your doctor. Your family or caregiver should also be sure to note any changes in your mood or behavior.

You should avoid this medication if you are allergic to brexpiprazole. The medication should be stored away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Rexulti should be taken in an exact manner that your doctor has prescribed it to you. Always be sure to read and follow any instruction sheets, medication guides, and prescription labels that your doctor or pharmacist has given you.

This medication may be taken with or without food. While taking this medication, you may be more dehydrated than usual. Make sure that you drink lots of fluids during the course of your treatment to ensure that you remain properly hydrated, especially during exercise or while in a hot environment.

You should not stop taking this medication suddenly as doing so has the potential to make your condition worse. While taking this medication, your doctor may assess your dosage levels periodically to make any necessary adjustments. If you miss a dose, you should take the medication as soon as you remember the missed dose. If it’s already nearly time for your next scheduled dose, you should skip the missed dose. You should not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

If you think that you may be experiencing an overdose, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately. You should also seek emergency medical attention if you suspect that you are experiencing an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include some of the following: breathing trouble, hives, or swelling in the face, tongue, lips, or throat.

Before taking this medication, you should alert your doctor if you have ever experienced any of the following conditions: liver disease, kidney disease, seizures, high or low blood pressure, heart problems, high cholesterol and/or triglycerides, high blood sugar, diabetes, stroke or low white blood cell counts. Rexulti can sometimes cause high blood sugar, so if you have diabetes, be diligent in the regular testing of your blood sugar levels while on this medication.

Taking antipsychotic medication during the last trimester of pregnancy can sometimes cause breathing issues, withdrawal symptoms, or feeding troubles in the newborn baby.  You should not stop taking the medication without speaking to your doctor first. If you become pregnant while you are taking brexpiprazole, inform your doctor immediately. If you are instructed to continue use of the medication through your pregnancy, your name may be added to a registry for pregnant women to track any effects that Rexulti may have on the baby. Breastfeeding while taking this medication may not be safe. Discuss any possible risk with your doctor before making the decision to breastfeed your infant.

While taking Rexulti, patients should be cautious of driving, or any other hazardous activity, until they know exactly how the medication will affect them as reaction times may be impaired. Patients should also avoid standing up too quickly from a lying or sitting position, as they may feel dizzy. Staying hydrated and regulating body temperature is paramount while taking this medication, as Rexulti can sometimes make it harder for your body to self-regulate its temperature.

Always inform your doctor of every single medication, supplement, over the counter medicine, or vitamin that you take before starting a new prescription. Do not start taking any new over the counter medicines, vitamins, or supplements without talking to your doctor first while you are taking Rexulti. There are nearly 1000 known drug interactions with brexpiprazole ranging from mild to severe. Ask your doctor to warn you about any possible interactions with your current medications.

Long term use or high doses of this medication may result in an irreversible serious movement disorder

Some common side effects of Rexulti may include the following:

• Weight gain
• Restlessness
• Feeling like you’re unable to stay still

There are also some more serious side effects of this medication that you should report to your doctor immediately if you experience them such as:

• Signs of blood clots
• Severe nervous system reactions
• Feeling warmer than usual
• Feeling intolerant to heat
• Uncontrollable facial muscle movement
• Seizures
• Trouble swallowing
• Light headedness
• Low blood cell counts
• High blood sugar

You may also experience increased sexual urges, abnormal gambling urges, or other increased urges. Speak with your doctor if this happens to you.

This is not a definitive list of side effects. You can speak to your doctor or pharmacist about any other medical advice questions or side effect concerns.