The FDA has approved a new use for the drug Rexulti (brexpiprazole). It is now approved to treat agitation in people with dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease. Agitation can include restlessness, pacing, or verbal outbursts. This approval gives doctors another tool to help manage these symptoms.
Rexulti is a type of medicine called an atypical antipsychotic. It is taken as a pill once a day. The starting dose is low and is increased over two weeks. The maximum dose is 3 mg per day. This medicine is not meant for use as needed or for sudden symptoms.
This approval is based on studies that showed Rexulti can reduce agitation. However, like other antipsychotics, it carries a boxed warning about an increased risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis. This is a serious warning that doctors and families should discuss carefully.
If you or a loved one has Alzheimer's disease and agitation, talk to your doctor about whether Rexulti might be an option. It is important to weigh the benefits and risks together. This medicine is not a cure for Alzheimer's and does not slow the disease.
