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Rexulti for Mental Health Disorders

Thursday 21 October 2021
Mental Health
5 minute(s) read

Table of Contents


I. What is an Antipsychotic?

II. Uses for Rexulti

a. Schizophrenia

b. Major Depressive Disorder

III. What does Rexulti do in the Body?

IV. Side Effects of Rexulti

V. Taking Rexulti Safely


What is an Antipsychotic?

Antipsychotic medication is used to treat symptoms of mental health disorders like hallucinations and delusions. Antipsychotic drugs are commonly prescribed to patients with major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer’s disease. Antipsychotic medications also include drugs that reduce symptoms of anxiety disorder and Tourette syndrome.

The goal of antipsychotic medications is to help control symptoms. These drugs do not cure the underlying condition but can prevent symptoms from worsening in the future. Antipsychotic medications are often combined with therapy, counseling, and other forms of support to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. For patients who hear voices (auditory hallucinations), antipsychotic drugs may be paired with cognitive-behavioral therapy to ensure the success of your treatment plan.

a motion-blurred image of a man shaking his head vigorously

When taking antipsychotic medication, it is important to maintain your physical health. Certain antipsychotic drugs may increase the risk of health problems like diabetes. Exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating a nutritious diet can help minimize side effects and lower your risk of health complications. Antipsychotics may have serious side effects, but your doctor will adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Read on to learn more about Rexulti (brexpiprazole), a popular antipsychotic medication. [1]

Uses for Rexulti

a. Schizophrenia

Rexulti (brexpiprazole) can be used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia. Rexulti is an atypical antipsychotic medication, meaning it works by blocking dopamine and affects serotonin levels. Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that regulate many important functions in the body like sleep, digestion, metabolism, and depression. By altering these chemicals, Rexulti can help to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia, including:

  • Sleeping problems
  • Disorganized speech
  • Trouble controlling impulses
  • Odd emotional responses
  • Loss of interest in life
  • Social isolation
  • Difficulty experiencing pleasure
  • Problem learning and applying information [2]

The exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, but researchers think chemical abnormalities in the brain may be partially responsible for this condition. Researchers also believe that high levels of stress, exposure to toxins during infancy, and taking mind-altering drugs can increase your risk of schizophrenia. Symptoms of schizophrenia are typically categorized into hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized speech. Your doctor will determine if Rexulti is right for you. [2]

b. Major Depressive Disorder

Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a condition that alters your mood and causes persistent sadness. Depression not only affects how you feel, but it can disrupt how you think and behave. Depression can interfere with everyday activities and make you feel as if there is no point in living. Clinical depression is more than feeling sad for a few days; it is not something that is easy to overcome and often requires long-term treatment. Luckily, Rexulti is available to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

a hand reaching out of the ocean

As mentioned above, brexpiprazole helps to balance important chemicals in the brain. This antipsychotic medication is often prescribed with an antidepressant because combination therapy can be more effective. While it is natural to feel sadness every now and then, talk to your doctor about Rexulti if you experience ongoing symptoms of depression that hold you back from enjoying life. [3]

What does Rexulti do in the Body?

How does Rexulti decrease hallucinations and help you think more clearly? Brexpiprazole belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin-dopamine activity modulators (SDAMs). These drugs alter the neurotransmitters in the brain and adjust the balance of your natural brain chemicals. By addressing imbalances with your neurotransmitters, the brain can return to normal function and symptoms of schizophrenia and depression may subside.

Rexulti is a long-term treatment medication and may stay in your system for about 20 days. Rexulti will start to work at different times, depending on dosage and the severity of the condition. Over the first few weeks, your doctor will likely gradually increase your dose to find the best dose for you. In several studies, patients begin to see results within two weeks of taking Rexulti, but it may take up to six weeks to get the full benefits. [4]

Side Effects of Rexulti

Rexulti is an effective antipsychotic medication, but you do have to watch out for severe side effects. High doses and prolonged use of Rexulti can result in an irreversible movement disorder, especially in diabetic or older patients. You may need to seek your doctor’s help if your symptoms worsen after taking Rexulti or if you experience the following side effects:

  • Behavior changes
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Panic attacks
  • Irritation and agitation
  • Hostility or aggressiveness
  • Increased impulsiveness

More severe side effects of Rexulti include:

  • Trouble swallowing
  • Uncontrolled muscle movement in the face
  • Intolerance to heat
  • Seizure
  • Light-headedness
  • High blood sugar
  • Low white blood cell count
  • Blood clot
  • Severe nervous system reaction [5]

a woman holding her head in distress

Taking Rexulti Safely

Antipsychotic medications like Rexulti are not addictive, but they can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking them. Withdrawal symptoms tend to include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, dizziness, and vomiting. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, talk to your doctor before stopping treatment and cut down on your dosage slowly when the time comes.

Antipsychotics may also interact with other medications and increase the potential for additional side effects. To take Rexulti safely, always get approval from your doctor before taking any new herbal remedies, over-the-counter medications, or prescription drugs. Antipsychotic drugs can also have a sedating effect, so you may need to avoid driving until you know how you react to Rexulti. [1]

To buy Rexulti (brexpiprazole), visit Canadian Pharmacy Service for the lowest price on the market. Canadian Pharmacy Service is an online Canadian pharmacy that carries several different dosages of brexpiprazole for your needs. Leave physical pharmacies and expensive medications in the past. Fill your prescription for Rexulti online and have your medication delivered straight to your door. 

The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical condition, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.