Brexpiprazole
Brexpiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia and as adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder. It works by modulating dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain, helping to reduce symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and mood disturbances. This medication is typically prescribed when other treatments have not been effective.
Brexpiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and depression by balancing dopamine and serotonin activity in the brain.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05AX16
- RxNorm
- 1658314
- Generic
- Brexpiprazole
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- Rexulti
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Brexpiprazole is FDA-approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and as adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder. It may also be used off-label for other conditions as determined by a healthcare provider.
Brexpiprazole is a third-generation atypical antipsychotic that acts as a partial agonist at dopamine D2 and D3 receptors and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, while also antagonizing serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This balanced modulation of neurotransmitter activity helps stabilize mood and reduce psychotic symptoms.
Brexpiprazole carries a boxed warning for increased mortality risk in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. Common side effects may include weight gain, akathisia, and sedation. Regular monitoring of metabolic parameters is recommended during treatment. Patients should not stop taking this medication abruptly without medical consultation.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy