Brexpiprazole

Brexpiprazole

Brexpiprazole molecule ball

Atypical antipsychotic medication

Brexpiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily in the treatment of schizophrenia and as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder. It is marketed under the brand name Rexulti.

Medical uses

Brexpiprazole is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). It is also being studied for the treatment of agitation associated with dementia of the Alzheimer's type.

Mechanism of action

Brexpiprazole acts as a serotonin-dopamine activity modulator (SDAM). It is a partial agonist at 5-HT1A and D2 receptors and an antagonist at 5-HT2A receptors. This unique mechanism of action is thought to contribute to its efficacy in treating both psychotic and mood disorders.

Side effects

Common side effects of brexpiprazole include weight gain, akathisia, and headache. Less common but more serious side effects can include tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and hyperglycemia.

Pharmacokinetics

Brexpiprazole is administered orally. It has a half-life of approximately 91 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. The drug is metabolized primarily by the cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6.

History

Brexpiprazole was developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Lundbeck. It was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2015 for the treatment of schizophrenia and as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder.

See also

• Atypical antipsychotic
• Schizophrenia
• Major depressive disorder
• Serotonin-dopamine activity modulator

External links

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