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WARNING
INCREASED MORTALITY IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED PSYCHOSIS; and SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS
Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. REXULTI is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients aged 24 years and younger in short-term studies. Monitor closely for clinical worsening and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The safety and efficacy of REXULTI have not been established in pediatric patients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Use In Specific Populations].
Brexpiprazole, an atypical antipsychotic, is available as REXULTI® (brexpiprazole) tablets. Brexpiprazole is 7-{4-[4-(1- Benzothiophen-4-yl)piperazin-1-yl]butoxy}quinolin-2(1H)-one. The empirical formula is C25H27N3O2S and its molecular weight is 433.57. The chemical structure is:
 |
REXULTI tablets are for oral administration and are available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg and 4 mg strengths. Inactive ingredients include lactose monohydrate, corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lowsubstituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, and talc. Colorants include titanium dioxide, iron oxide and ferrosferric oxide.
REXULTI is indicated for:
REXULTI is not indicated as an as needed (“prn”) treatment for agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease [see Clinical Studies].
Administer REXULTI orally, once daily with or without food [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]
The recommended starting REXULTI dosage for the adjunctive treatment of MDD in adults is 0.5 mg or 1 mg orally once daily. Titrate to 1 mg once daily, then titrate to the target dosage of 2 mg once daily (based on the patient’s clinical response and tolerability, increase the dosage at weekly intervals). The maximum recommended daily dosage is 3 mg. Periodically reassess to determine the continued need and appropriate dosage for treatment.
The recommended starting REXULTI dosage for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults is 1 mg orally once daily on Days 1 to 4. Titrate to 2 mg once daily on Day 5 through Day 7. On Day 8, the dosage can be increased to the maximum recommended daily dosage of 4 mg based on clinical response and tolerability. The recommended target dosage is 2 mg to 4 mg once daily.
The recommended starting REXULTI dosage for the treatment of schizophrenia in pediatric patients 13 to 17 years of age is 0.5 mg orally once daily on Days 1 to 4. On Days 5 through 7, titrate to 1 mg per day and on Day 8 titrate to 2 mg based on clinical response and tolerability. Weekly dose increases can be made in 1 mg increments. A recommended target dosage is 2 to 4 mg once daily. The maximum recommended daily dosage is 4 mg.
The recommended starting REXULTI dosage for the treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease is 0.5 mg orally once daily on Days 1 to 7. Increase the dosage on Days 8 through 14 to 1 mg once daily, and on Day 15 to 2 mg once daily. The recommended target dose is 2 mg once daily. The dosage can be increased to the maximum recommended daily dosage of 3 mg once daily after at least 14 days, based on clinical response and tolerability.
The maximum recommended dosage in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score ≥7) is [see Use In Specific Populations, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
The maximum recommended dosage in patients with creatinine clearance CrCl<60 mL/minute is [see Use In Specific Populations, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Dosage modifications are recommended in patients who are known cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 poor metabolizers and in patients taking concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors, CYP2D6 inhibitors, or strong CYP3A4 inducers (see Table 1). If the concomitant drug is discontinued, adjust the REXULTI dosage to its original level. If the concomitant CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, reduce the REXULTI dosage to the original level over 1 to 2 weeks [see DRUG INTERACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Table 1 Dosage Modifications of REXULTI for CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers and for Concomitant Use with CYP3A4 Inhibitors, CYP2D6 Inhibitors, or CYP3A4 Inducers
| Factors | Adjusted REXULTI Dosage |
| CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers | |
| CYP2D6 poor metabolizers | Administer half of the recommended dosage. |
| Known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers taking strong/moderate | Administer a quarter of the recommended |
| CYP3A4 inhibitors | dosage. |
| Patients Taking CYP2D6 Inhibitors and/or CYP3A4 Inhibitors | |
| Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors* | Administer half of the recommended dosage. |
| Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors | Administer half of the recommended dosage. |
| Strong/moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors with strong/moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors | Administer a quarter of the recommended dosage. |
| Patients Taking CYP3A4 Inducers | |
| Strong CYP3A4 inducers | Double the recommended dosage over 1 to 2 weeks. |
| *In the clinical studies examining the use of REXULTI for the adjunctive treatment of MDD, dosage was not adjusted for strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., paroxetine, fluoxetine). Thus, CYP considerations are already factored into general dosing recommendations, and REXULTI may be administered without dosage adjustment in patients with MDD. | |
REXULTI tablets are available in 6 strengths:
REXULTI (brexpiprazole) tablets have markings on one side and are available in the following strengths and package configurations (see below):
NDC 59148-035-13 - Bottles of 30
NDC 59148-036-13 - Bottles of 30
NDC 59148-037-13 - Bottles of 30
NDC 59148-038-13 - Bottles of 30
NDC 59148-039-13 - Bottles of 30
NDC 59148-040-13 - Bottles of 30
Store REXULTI tablets at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tokyo 101-8535, Japan. Revised: May 2025
The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
The most common adverse reactions in adult patients in clinical trials (≥5%) were weight increased, akathisia, headache, somnolence, and insomnia.
The most common adverse reactions in pediatric patients in clinical trials (≥5%) were weight increased, somnolence, headache, akathisia, and nasopharyngitis.
Brexpiprazole has been evaluated for safety in 12,550 adult patients who participated in multiple-dose clinical trials for major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar mania, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). Among them, 3,870 patients were treated with brexpiprazole for at least 180 days, and 1,910 patients were treated for at least one year of exposure.
Additionally, brexpiprazole has been evaluated for safety in 119 pediatric patients who participated in short-term trials, and 314 patients in long-term multiple-dose clinical trials for pediatric schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
The safety of REXULTI was evaluated in 1054 adult patients (18 to 65 years of age) diagnosed with MDD who participated in two 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in patients with major depressive disorder in which REXULTI was administered at doses of 1 mg to 3 mg daily as adjunctive treatment to continued antidepressant therapy; patients in the placebo group continued to receive antidepressant therapy [see Clinical Studies].
A total of 3% (17/643) of REXULTI-treated patients and 1% (3/411) of placebo-treated patients discontinued due to adverse reactions.
Adverse reactions associated with the adjunctive use of REXULTI (incidence of 2% or greater and adjunctive REXULTI incidence greater than adjunctive placebo) that occurred during acute therapy (up to 6-weeks in patients with MDD) are shown in Table 8.
Table 8 Adverse Reactions in ≥2% of REXULTI-Treated Patients and Greater than Placebo in Pooled 6-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose Adjunctive MDD Studies in Adults (Study 1 and Study 2)
| Placebo (N=411) % |
REXULTI | ||||
| 1 mg/day (N=226) % |
2 mg/day (N=188) % |
3 mg/day (N=229) % |
All REXULTI (N=643) % |
||
| Gastrointestinal Disorders | |||||
| Constipation | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions | |||||
| Fatigue | 2 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 3 |
| Infections and Infestations | |||||
| Nasopharyngitis | 2 | 7 | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| Investigations | |||||
| Weight Increased | 2 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 7 |
| Blood Cortisol Decreased | 1 | 4 | 0 | 3 | 2 |
| Metabolism and Nutrition | |||||
| Increased Appetite | 2 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 |
| Nervous System Disorders | |||||
| Akathisia | 2 | 4 | 7 | 14 | 9 |
| Headache | 6 | 9 | 4 | 6 | 7 |
| Somnolence | 0.5 | 4 | 4 | 6 | 5 |
| Tremor | 2 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 4 |
| Dizziness | 1 | 1 | 5 | 2 | 3 |
| Psychiatric Disorders | |||||
| Anxiety | 1 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 3 |
| Restlessness | 0 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 |
In Studies 1 and 2, among the adverse reactions that occurred at ≥2% incidence in the patients treated with REXULTI plus ADT, the incidences of akathisia and restlessness increased with increases in dose.
The safety of REXULTI was evaluated in 852 adult patients (18 to 65 years of age) diagnosed with schizophrenia who participated in two 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in which REXULTI was administered at daily doses of 1 mg, 2 mg, and 4 mg [see Clinical Studies].
Adverse reactions associated with REXULTI (incidence of 2% or greater and REXULTI incidence greater than placebo) during short-term (up to 6 weeks) studies in adult patients with schizophrenia are shown in Table 9.
Table 9 Adverse Reactions in ≥2% of REXULTI-Treated Patients and Greater than Placebo in Pooled 6-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose Schizophrenia Studies in Adult Patients (Study 3 and Study 4)
| Placebo (N=368) % |
REXULTI | ||||
| 1 mg/day (N=120) % |
2 mg/day (N=368) % |
4 mg/day (N=364) % |
ALL REXULTI (N=852) % |
||
| Gastrointestinal Disorders | |||||
| Dyspepsia | 2 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Diarrhea | 2 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Investigations | |||||
| Weight Increased | 2 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Blood Creatinine Phosphokinase Increased | 1 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Nervous System Disorders | |||||
| Akathisia | 5 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 6 |
| Tremor | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Sedation | 1 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 |
The safety of REXULTI was evaluated in 110 pediatric patients (13 to 17 years of age) diagnosed with schizophrenia who participated in a 6-week, placebo-controlled, clinical study in which REXULTI was administered at daily doses of 2 mg to 4 mg [see Clinical Studies].
Adverse reactions associated with REXULTI (incidence of 2% or greater and REXULTI incidence greater than placebo) during short-term (up to 6 weeks) study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia are shown in Table 10.
Table 10 Adverse Reactions in ≥2% of REXULTI-Treated Patients and Greater than Placebo in 6- Week Placebo- and Active Controlled, Schizophrenia Study in Pediatric Patients 13 to 17 years of age (Study 5)
| Placebo (N=104) % |
REXULTI (N=110) % |
|
| Gastrointestinal Disorders | ||
| Nausea | 4 | 6 |
| Nervous System Disorders | ||
| Akathisia | 3 | 4 |
| Extrapyramidal Symptoms* | 3 | 6 |
| Headache | 5 | 6 |
| *Extrapyramidal Symptoms includes: blepharospasm, dystonia, extrapyramidal disorder, eye movement disorder, hypokinesia, muscle rigidity, musculoskeletal stiffness, psychomotor hyperactivity, tremor | ||
The safety of REXULTI was evaluated in 503 patients (51 to 90 years of age), with a probable diagnosis of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, who participated in two 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in which REXULTI was administered at daily doses of 2 mg to 3 mg [see Clinical Studies].
In two 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose, clinical studies, a total of 5.6% (28/503) of patients treated with REXULTI and 4.8% (12/251) of patients treated with placebo discontinued due to adverse reactions.
Adverse reactions associated with REXULTI (incidence ≥2% and greater than placebo) during the 12-week fixed-dose clinical studies in geriatric patients for treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease are shown in Table 11.
Table 11 Adverse Reactions in ≥2% of REXULTI-Treated Patients and Greater than Placebo in Pooled 12-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose Agitation Associated with Dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease Studies (Study 6 and Study 7)
| Placebo (N=251) % |
REXULTI | ||||
| 1 mg/day* (N=137) % |
2 mg/day (N=213) % |
3 mg/day (N=153) % |
ALL REXULTI (N=503) % |
||
| Infections and Infestations | |||||
| Nasopharyngitis | 2 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Urinary Tract Infection | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Nervous System Disorders | |||||
| Dizziness† | 2 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Headache | 8 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8 |
| Somnolence‡ | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 3 |
| Psychiatric Disorders | |||||
| Insomnia§ | 3 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 4 |
| *1 mg once day REXULTI dosage is not a recommended dosage for the treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. †Dizziness and Vertigo are grouped to Dizziness ‡Sedation and somnolence are grouped to somnolence. §Initial insomnia and insomnia are grouped to insomnia |
|||||
The incidence of reported extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)-related adverse reactions, excluding akathisia, was 6% for REXULTI plus ADT-treated patients versus 3% for placebo plus ADT-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia events for REXULTI plus ADT-treated patients was 9% versus 2% for placebo plus ADT-treated patients.
In the 6-week placebo-controlled MDD studies, data was objectively collected on the Simpson-Angus Rating Scale (SAS) for EPS, the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) for akathisia and the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Score (AIMS) for dyskinesia. The mean change from baseline at last visit for REXULTI plus ADT-treated patients for the SAS, BARS and AIMS was comparable to placebo-treated patients. The percentage of patients who shifted from normal to abnormal was greater in REXULTI plus ADT-treated patients versus placebo plus ADT-treated patients for the BARS (4% versus 0.6%) and the SAS (4% versus 3%).
The incidence of reported EPS-related adverse reactions, excluding akathisia, was 5% for REXULTI-treated adult patients versus 4% for placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia events for REXULTI-treated adult patients was 6% versus 5% for placebo-treated patients.
In the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose schizophrenia studies in adults, data was objectively collected on the Simpson-Angus Rating Scale (SAS) for EPS, the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) for akathisia and the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for dyskinesia. The mean change from baseline at last visit for REXULTI-treated patients for the SAS, BARS and AIMS was comparable to placebo-treated patients. The percentage of patients who shifted from normal to abnormal was greater in REXULTI-treated patients versus placebo for the BARS (2% versus 1%) and the SAS (7% versus 5%).
The incidence of reported EPS-related adverse reactions, excluding akathisia, was 6.4% for REXULTI-treated pediatric patients versus 2.9% for placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia events for REXULTI-treated pediatric patients was 3.6% versus 2.9% for placebo-treated patients.
In the 6-week placebo-and active controlled, schizophrenia study in pediatric patients, data was objectively collected on the Simpson-Angus Rating Scale (SAS) for EPS, the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) for akathisia and the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for dyskinesia. The mean change from baseline at last visit for REXULTI-treated pediatric patients for the SAS, BARS and AIMS was comparable to placebo-treated patients. The percentage of patients who shifted from normal to abnormal was greater in REXULTI-treated patients versus placebo for the BARS (0.9% versus 0%) and the SAS (5.5% versus 2.9%).
The incidence of reported EPS-related adverse reactions, excluding akathisia, was 3% for REXULTI-treated patients versus 2% for placebo-treated patients. The incidence of akathisia events for REXULTI-treated patients was 1% versus 0% for placebo-treated patients.
In the 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose studies in agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, data was objectively collected on the Simpson-Angus Rating Scale (SAS) for EPS, the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) for akathisia and the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for dyskinesia. The mean change from baseline at last visit for REXULTI-treated patients for the SAS, BARS and AIMS was comparable to placebo-treated patients. The percentage of patients who shifted from normal to abnormal was greater in REXULTI-treated patients versus placebo for the SAS (6% versus 2%).
Symptoms of dystonia may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and at higher doses of first-generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups.
Other adverse reactions (≥1% frequency and greater than placebo) within the short-term, placebo-controlled trials in adult patients with MDD and schizophrenia are shown below. The following listing does not include adverse reactions: 1) already listed in previous tables or elsewhere in the labeling, 2) for which a drug cause was remote, 3) which were so general as to be uninformative, 4) which were not considered to have clinically significant implications, or 5) which occurred at a rate equal to or less than placebo.
Eye Disorders:Vision Blurred
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Nausea, Dry Mouth, Salivary Hypersecretion, Abdominal Pain, Flatulence
Investigations: Blood Prolactin Increased
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: Myalgia
Psychiatric Disorders: Abnormal Dreams
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Hyperhidrosis
In a short-term, randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled study in pediatric patients 13 to 17 years of age with schizophrenia, safety was assessed in 110 patients in which 100 received REXULTI for at least 6 weeks. In an on-going, 2 year, open-label study in pediatric patients 13 to 17 years of age with schizophrenia, in which safety was assessed in 194 patients of which 140 received REXULTI for at least 6 months. Adverse reactions reported in clinical studies for this age group were generally similar to those observed in adult patients.
Hyperprolactinemia
In a 6-week, placebo-controlled study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, a 3.3 ng/mL mean increase (from baseline to last visit) was observed in the REXULTI group (versus a 2.8 ng/mL mean decrease in the placebo group) in females. Additionally, more female subjects in the REXULTI group (28.9%, n=13) compared to the placebo group (4.7%, n=2) had shifts from normal (≤30 ng/mL) prolactin levels at baseline to abnormal (>30 ng/mL) during the course of treatment. In males, overall mean shifts in the REXULTI group were not consistent with an increase in prolactin however, more male subjects in the REXULTI group (21.4%, n=9) compared to the placebo group (7.0%, n=3) had shifts from normal (≤20 ng/mL) prolactin levels at baseline to abnormal (>20 ng/mL) during the course of treatment. One subject in the study experienced TEAE of galactorrhea without elevated prolactin.
The following adverse reaction has been identified during post-approval use of REXULTI. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Nervous System disorders: Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
See Table 12 for clinically important drug interactions with REXULTI.
Table 12 Clinically Important Drug Interactions with REXULTI
| Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors | |
| Clinical Impact: | Concomitant use of REXULTI with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors increased the exposure of brexpiprazole compared to the use of REXULTI alone [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. |
| Intervention: | With concomitant use of REXULTI with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce the REXULTI dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. |
| Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors | |
| Clinical Impact: | Concomitant use of REXULTI with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors increased the exposure of brexpiprazole compared to the use of REXULTI alone [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. |
| Intervention: | With concomitant use of REXULTI with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, reduce the REXULTI dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. |
| Both CYP3A4 Inhibitors and CYP2D6 Inhibitors | |
| Clinical Impact: | Concomitant use of REXULTI with 1) a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor; or 2) a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor; or 3) a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor; or 4) a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor increased the exposure of brexpiprazole compared to the use of REXULTI alone [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. |
| Intervention: | With concomitant use of REXULTI with 1) a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor; or 2) a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor; or 3) a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor; or 4) a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor, decrease the REXULTI dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. |
| Strong CYP3A4 Inducers | |
| Clinical Impact: | Concomitant use of REXULTI and a strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased the exposure of brexpiprazole compared to the use of REXULTI alone [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. |
| Intervention: | With concomitant use of REXULTI with a strong CYP3A4 inducer, increase the REXULTI dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION] |
| *In the clinical studies examining the adjunctive use of REXULTI in the treatment of MDD, dosage was not adjusted for strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., paroxetine, fluoxetine). Thus, CYP considerations are already factored into general dosing recommendations, and REXULTI may be administered without dosage adjustment in patients with MDD. | |
Based on pharmacokinetic studies, no dosage adjustment of REXULTI is required when administered concomitantly with CYP2B6 inhibitors (e.g., ticlopidine) or gastric pH modifiers (e.g., omeprazole). Additionally, no dosage adjustment for substrates of CYP2D6 (e.g., dextromethorphan), CYP3A4 (e.g., lovastatin), CYP2B6 (e.g., bupropion), BCRP (e.g., rosuvastatin), or P-gp (e.g., fexofenadine) is required when administered concomitantly with REXULTI.
REXULTI contains brexpiprazole, which is not a controlled substance.
Animals given access to REXULTI did not self-administer the drug, suggesting that REXULTI does not have rewarding properties.
Humans and animals that received chronic REXULTI administration did not demonstrate any withdrawal signs upon drug discontinuation. This suggests that REXULTI does not produce physical dependence.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks), largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, revealed a risk of death in drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times the risk of death in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in the drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group.
Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. REXULTI is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis without agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease [see BOX WARNING, Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions Including Stroke In Elderly Patients With Dementia-Related Psychosis].
In pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and other antidepressant classes) that included approximately 77,000 adult patients and over 4,400 pediatric patients, the incidence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients 24 years of age and younger was greater in antidepressant-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients. The drug-placebo differences in the number of cases of suicidal thoughts and behaviors per 1,000 patients treated are provided in Table 2.
No suicides occurred in any of the pediatric studies. There were suicides in the adult studies, but the number was not sufficient to reach any conclusion about antidepressant drug effect on suicide.
Table 2 Risk Differences of the Number of Patients with Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors in the Pooled Placebo-Controlled Trials of Antidepressants in Pediatric* and Adult Patients
| Age Range (years) | Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Patients with Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors per 1,000 Patients Treated |
| Increases Compared to Placebo | |
| <18 | 14 additional patients |
| 18 to 24 | 5 additional patients |
| Decreases Compared to Placebo | |
| 25 to 64 | 1 fewer patient |
| ≥65 | 6 fewer patients |
| *REXULTI is not approved in pediatric patients with MDD. | |
It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond four months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance studies in adults with MDD that antidepressants delay the recurrence of depression.
Monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of drug therapy and at times of dosage changes. Counsel family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the healthcare provider. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing REXULTI, in patients whose depression is persistently worse or who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
In placebo-controlled trials in elderly patients with dementia, patients randomized to risperidone, aripiprazole, and olanzapine had a higher incidence of stroke and transient ischemic attack, including fatal stroke. REXULTI is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis without agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease [see BOX WARNING, Increased Mortality In Elderly Patients With Dementia-Related Psychosis].
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal symptom complex, has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs, including REXULTI.
Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatinine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure.
If NMS is suspected, immediately discontinue REXULTI and provide intensive symptomatic treatment and monitoring.
Tardive dyskinesia, a syndrome consisting of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements, may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. The risk appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, but it is impossible to predict which patients will develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drugs differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown.
The risk of tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible appear to increase as the duration of treatment and the cumulative dose increases. The syndrome can develop after relatively brief treatment periods, at low doses. It may also occur after discontinuation of treatment.
Tardive dyskinesia may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is discontinued. Antipsychotic treatment itself may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome, possibly masking the underlying process. The effect that symptomatic suppression has upon the long-term course of tardive dyskinesia is unknown.
Given these considerations, REXULTI should be prescribed in a manner most likely to reduce the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia. Chronic antipsychotic treatment should generally be reserved for patients who suffer from a chronic illness that 1) is known to respond to antipsychotic drugs and 2) for whom alternative, equally effective, but potentially less harmful treatments are not available or appropriate. In patients who do require chronic treatment, use the lowest dose and the shortest duration of treatment needed to produce a satisfactory clinical response. Periodically reassess the need for continued treatment.
If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient treated with REXULTI, drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with REXULTI despite the presence of the syndrome.
Atypical antipsychotic drugs, including REXULTI, have caused metabolic changes including hyperglycemia, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and body weight gain. Although all of the drugs in the class to date have been shown to produce some metabolic changes, each drug has its own specific risk profile.
Hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, in some cases extreme and associated with diabetic ketoacidosis hyperosmolar coma or death, have been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. There have been reports of hyperglycemia in patients treated with REXULTI. Assess fasting plasma glucose before or soon after initiation of antipsychotic medication and monitor periodically during long-term treatment.
Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
In the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in adult patients with MDD, the proportions of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) and borderline (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high were similar in patients treated with REXULTI and placebo. In the long-term, open-label depression studies, 5% of adult patients with normal baseline fasting glucose experienced a shift to high while taking REXULTI plus an antidepressant (ADT); 25% of patients with borderline fasting glucose experienced shifts to high. Combined, 9% of patients with normal or borderline fasting glucose experienced shifts to high fasting glucose during the long-term depression studies.
Schizophrenia (Adults)
In the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in adult patients with schizophrenia, the proportions of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) or borderline (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high were similar in patients treated with REXULTI and placebo. In the long-term, open-label schizophrenia studies, 8% of adult patients with normal baseline fasting glucose experienced a shift from normal to high while taking REXULTI; 17% of patients with borderline fasting glucose experienced shifts from borderline to high. Combined, 10% of patients with normal or borderline fasting glucose experienced shifts to high fasting glucose during the long-term schizophrenia studies.
Schizophrenia Pediatric Patients (13 to 17 years of age)
In a 6-week, placebo-controlled study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, the proportion of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) or borderline (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high were similar in patients treated with REXULTI and placebo. In this study, 1.1% of pediatric patients with normal baseline fasting glucose experienced a shift from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) while taking REXULTI.
In the long-term, open-label study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, 2.7% of pediatric patients with normal baseline fasting glucose experienced a shift from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) while taking REXULTI.
Agitation Associated with Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease
In the 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose studies in patients (51 to 90 years of age) with agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, the proportions of patients with shifts in fasting glucose from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) or impaired (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high were similar in patients treated with REXULTI (14%) and patients treated with placebo (16%).
Of the patients who were previously treated with REXULTI for 12-weeks and continued into a 12-week, active-treatment extension study, 15% of patients with normal baseline fasting glucose experienced a shift from normal (<100 mg/dL) to high (≥126 mg/dL) fasting glucose while taking REXULTI; 30% of patients with impaired fasting glucose experienced shifts from impaired fasting glucose (≥100 and <126 mg/dL) to high fasting glucose. Combined, 20% of patients with normal or impaired fasting glucose experienced shifts to high fasting glucose.
Atypical antipsychotics cause adverse alterations in lipids. Before or soon after initiation of antipsychotic medication, obtain a fasting lipid profile at baseline and monitor periodically during treatment.
Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder
In the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in adult patients with MDD, changes in fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol were similar in REXULTI- and placebo-treated patients. Table 3 shows the proportions of patients with changes in fasting triglycerides.
Table 3 Change in Fasting Triglycerides in the 6-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose MDD Studies
| Proportion of Patients with Shifts Baseline to Post-Baseline | ||||
| Triglycerides | Placebo | 1 mg/day | 2 mg/day | 3 mg/day |
| Normal to High | 6% | 5% | 13% | 9% |
| (<150 mg/dL to ≥200 and <500 mg/dL) | (15/257)* | (7/145)* | (15/115)* | (13/150)* |
| Normal/Borderline to Very High | 0% | 0% | 0.7% | 0% |
| (<200 mg/dL to ≥500 mg/dL) | (0/309)* | (0/177)* | (1/143)* | (0/179)* |
| *denotes n/N where N=the total number of patients who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result;n=the number of patients with shift | ||||
In the long-term, open-label depression studies, shifts in baseline fasting cholesterol from normal to high were reported in 9% (total cholesterol), 3% (LDL cholesterol), and shifts in baseline from normal to low were reported in 14% (HDL cholesterol) of patients taking REXULTI. Of patients with normal baseline triglycerides, 17% experienced shifts to high, and 0.2% experienced shifts to very high. Combined, 0.6% of patients with normal or borderline fasting triglycerides experienced shifts to very high fasting triglycerides during the long-term depression studies.
Schizophrenia (Adults)
In the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in adult patients with schizophrenia, changes in fasting total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol were similar in REXULTI- and placebo-treated patients. Table 4 shows the proportions of patients with changes in fasting triglycerides.
Table 4 Change in Fasting Triglycerides in the 6-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose Schizophrenia Studies in Adult Patients
| Proportion of Patients with Shifts Baseline to Post-Baseline | ||||
| Triglycerides | Placebo | 1 mg/day | 2 mg/day | 4 mg/day |
| Normal to High | 6% | 10% | 8% | 10% |
| (<150 mg/dL to ≥200 and <500 mg/dL) | (15/253)* | (7/72)* | (19/232)* | (22/226)* |
| Normal/Borderline to Very High | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0.4% |
| (<200 mg/dL to ≥500 mg/dL) | (0/303)* | (0/94)* | (0/283)* | (1/283)* |
| *denotes n/N where N=the total number of patients who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result;n=the number of patients with shift | ||||
In the long-term, open-label schizophrenia studies in adult patients, shifts in baseline fasting cholesterol from normal to high were reported in 6% (total cholesterol), 2% (LDL cholesterol), and shifts in baseline from normal to low were reported in 17% (HDL cholesterol) of patients taking REXULTI. Of patients with normal baseline triglycerides, 13% experienced shifts to high, and 0.4% experienced shifts to very high triglycerides. Combined, 0.6% of patients with normal or borderline fasting triglycerides experienced shifts to very high fasting triglycerides during the long-term schizophrenia studies.
Schizophrenia [Pediatric Patients (13 to 17 years of age)]
The safety and efficacy of REXULTI have not been established in patients under the age of 13 years. In a 6-week, placebo-controlled study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, no clinically meaningful changes in fasting cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides were observed between the REXULTI and placebo groups.
In the long-term, open-label study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, shifts in baseline fasting total cholesterol from normal to high (<170 to ≥200 mg/dL) were reported in 7% of patients taking REXULTI, and shifts in baseline HDL cholesterol from normal to low (>45 to <40 mg/dL) were reported in 10%% of patients taking REXULTI. Of patients with normal baseline triglycerides, 15% experienced shifts from normal to high (<90 to ≥130 mg/dL).
Agitation Associated with Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease
In the 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in patients (55 to 90 years of age) with agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, changes in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol were similar in REXULTI- and placebo-treated patients.
Table 5 shows the proportions of patients with changes in fasting triglycerides in REXULTI- and placebo-treated patients.
Table 5 Change in Fasting Triglycerides in the 12-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose Agitation Associated with Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease Studies
| Proportion of Patients with Shifts Baseline to Post-Baseline | ||||
| Triglycerides | Placebo | 1 mg/day | 2 mg/day | 3 mg/day |
| Normal to High | 6% | 9% | 13% | 6% |
| (<150 and 200 to <500 mg/dL) | (10/157)* | (9/99)* | (17/133)* | (6/94)* |
| Borderline to High | 12% | 33% | 28% | 26% |
| (150 and <200mg/dL to 200 and <500 mg/dL) | (3/26)* | (2/6)* | (7/25)* | (6/23)* |
| Normal/Borderline to High | 7% | 11% | 15% | 10% |
| (<200 mg/dL to 200 and <500 mg/dL) | (13/183)* | (11/105)* | (24/158)* | (12/117)* |
| *denotes n/N where N=the total number of patients who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result;n=the number of patients with shift | ||||
Of the patients who were previously treated with REXULTI for 12 weeks and continued into a 12-week, active-treatment extension study, 9% of patients taking REXULTI showed shifts in baseline fasting total cholesterol from normal (<200 mg/dL) to high (≥240 mg/dL), and 16% of patients taking REXULTI showed shifts in baseline HDL cholesterol from normal to low (≥40 to <40 mg/dL). Of the patients with normal baseline triglycerides, 18% experienced shifts from normal (<150 mg/dL) to high (200 to <500 mg/dL).
Weight gain has been observed in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics, including REXULTI. Monitor weight at baseline and frequently thereafter.
Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: Table 6 shows weight gain data at last visit and percentage of adult patients with ≥7% increase in body weight at endpoint from the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in patients with MDD.
Table 6 Increases in Body Weight in the 6-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose MDD Studies
| Placebo | 1 mg/day | 2 mg/day | 3 mg/day | |
| n=407 | n=225 | n=187 | n=228 | |
| Mean Change from Baseline (kg) at Last Visit | ||||
| All Patients | +0.3 | +1.3 | +1.6 | +1.6 |
| Proportion of Patients with a ≥7% Increase in Body Weight (kg) at Any Visit (n/N*) | ||||
| 2% | 5% | 5% | 2% | |
| (8/407)* | (11/225)* | (9/187)* | (5/228)* | |
| *N=the total number of patients who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result;n=the number of patients with a shift ≥7% | ||||
In the long-term, open-label depression studies, 4% of patients discontinued due to weight increase. REXULTI was associated with mean change from baseline in weight of 2.9 kg at Week 26 and 3.1 kg at Week 52. In the long-term, open-label depression studies, 30% of patients demonstrated a ≥7% increase in body weight, and 4% demonstrated a ≥7% decrease in body weight.
Schizophrenia (Adults)
Table 7 shows weight gain data at last visit and percentage of adult patients with ≥7% increase in body weight at endpoint from the 6-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in adult patients with schizophrenia.
Table 7 Increases in Body Weight in the 6-Week Placebo-Controlled, Fixed-Dose Schizophrenia Studies in Adult Patients
| Placebo | 1 mg/day | 2 mg/day | 4 mg/day | |
| n=362 | n=120 | n=362 | n=362 | |
| Mean Change from Baseline (kg) at Last Visit | ||||
| All Patients | +0.2 | +1.0 | +1.2 | +1.2 |
| Proportion of Patients with a ≥7% Increase in Body Weight (kg) at Any Visit (*n/N) | ||||
| 4% | 10% | 11% | 10% | |
| (15/362)* | (12/120)* | (38/362)* | (37/362)* | |
| *denotes n/N where N=the total number of patients who had a measurement at baseline and at least one post-baseline result;n=the number of patients with a shift ≥7% | ||||
In the long-term, open-label schizophrenia studies in adult patients, 0.6% of patients discontinued due to weight increase. REXULTI was associated with mean change from baseline in weight of 1.3 kg at Week 26 and 2.0 kg at Week 52. In the long-term, open label schizophrenia studies, 20% of patients demonstrated a ≥7% increase in body weight, and 10% demonstrated a ≥7% decrease in body weight.
Schizophrenia [Pediatric Patients (13 to 17 years of age)]
In a 6-week, placebo-controlled study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, no patients discontinued due to weight increase. The mean increase in weight from baseline to last visit was 0.8 kg in the REXULTI group and no changes were seen in the placebo groups. The percentage of pediatric patients demonstrating a ≥7% increase in body weight was 8.2% in the REXULTI group and 4.9% in the placebo group.
In the long-term, open label study in pediatric patients with schizophrenia, 0.5% of patients discontinued due to weight increase. The mean increase in weight from the open-label study baseline to last visit was 3.8 kg. To adjust for normal growth, z-scores were derived (measured in standard deviations [SD]), which normalize for natural growth of children and adolescents by comparisons to age- and gender- matched population standards. A z-score change <0.5 SD is considered not clinically significant. In this study, the mean change in z-score from open-label baseline to last visit was 0.10 SD for body weight, while 20% of patients had an increase in age-and-gender-adjusted body weight z-score of at least 0.5 SD from baseline. When treating pediatric, weight gain should be monitored and assessed against that expected for normal growth.
Agitation Associated with Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease
In the 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in patients (51 to 90 years of age) with agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, the proportion of the patients with a ≥7% increase in body weight (kg) at any visit were 2% in REXULTI compared to 0% in placebo group.
In patients who were previously treated with REXULTI for 12 weeks and who continued into a 12-week, active-treatment extension study, there was no mean change in weight (kg) from baseline to last visit in association with REXULTI. In this extension study, 4% of patients demonstrated ≥7% increase in body weight, and 5% demonstrated a ≥7% decrease in body weight from baseline to last visit.
Post-marketing case reports suggest that patients can experience intense urges, particularly for gambling, and the inability to control these urges while taking REXULTI. Other compulsive urges, reported less frequently, include sexual urges, shopping, eating, or binge eating, and other impulsive or compulsive behaviors. Because patients may not recognize these behaviors as abnormal, it is important for prescribers to ask patients or their caregivers specifically about the development of new or intense gambling urges, compulsive sexual urges, compulsive shopping, binge or compulsive eating, or other urges while being treated with REXULTI. In some cases, although not all, urges were reported to have stopped when the dose was reduced, or the medication was discontinued. Compulsive behaviors may result in harm to the patient and others if not recognized. Consider dose reduction or stopping the medication if a patient develops such urges.
Leukopenia and neutropenia have been reported during treatment with antipsychotic agents. Agranulocytosis (including fatal cases) has been reported with other agents in this class.
Possible risk factors for leukopenia and neutropenia include pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC) or absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and history of drug-induced leukopenia or neutropenia. In patients with a pre-existing low WBC or ANC or a history of drug-induced leukopenia or neutropenia, perform a complete blood count (CBC) frequently during the first few months of therapy. In such patients, consider discontinuation of REXULTI at the first sign of a clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors.
Monitor patients with clinically significant neutropenia for fever or other symptoms or signs of infection and treat promptly if such symptoms or signs occur. Discontinue REXULTI in patients with absolute neutrophil count <1000/mm3 and follow their WBC until recovery.
Atypical antipsychotics cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope. Generally, the risk is greatest during initial dose titration and when increasing the dose. In the short-term, placebo-controlled clinical studies of REXULTI plus ADT in adult patients with MDD, the incidence of orthostatic hypotension-related adverse reactions in REXULTI plus ADT-treated patients compared to placebo plus ADT-treated patients included: dizziness (2% versus 2%) and orthostatic hypotension (0.1% versus 0%). In the short-term, placebo-controlled clinical studies of REXULTI in adult patients with schizophrenia, the incidence of orthostatic hypotension-related adverse reactions in REXULTI-treated patients compared to placebo patients included: dizziness (2% versus 2%), orthostatic hypotension (0.4% versus 0.2%), and syncope (0.1% versus 0%). In 12-week, placebo- controlled clinical studies of REXULTI in patients with agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, the incidence of orthostatic hypotension-related adverse reactions in patients treated with REXULTI compared to patients treated with placebo included: dizziness (3% versus 3%), orthostatic hypotension (1% versus 1%), and syncope (0.2% versus 0.8%).
Orthostatic vital signs should be monitored in patients who are vulnerable to hypotension (e.g., elderly patients, patients with dehydration, hypovolemia, concomitant treatment with antihypertensive medication), patients with known cardiovascular disease (history of myocardial infarction, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, or conduction abnormalities), and patients with cerebrovascular disease. REXULTI has not been evaluated in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable cardiovascular disease. Such patients were excluded from the premarketing clinical studies.
Antipsychotics, including REXULTI, may cause somnolence, postural hypotension, motor, and sensory instability, which may lead to falls and, consequently, fractures or other injuries. For patients with diseases, conditions, or medications that could exacerbate these effects, complete fall risk assessments when initiating antipsychotic treatment and recurrently for patients on long-term antipsychotic treatment.
Like other antipsychotic drugs, REXULTI may cause seizures. This risk is greatest in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold. Conditions that lower the seizure threshold may be more prevalent in older patients.
Atypical antipsychotics may disrupt the body’s ability to reduce core body temperature. Strenuous exercise, exposure to extreme heat, dehydration, and anticholinergic medications may contribute to an elevation in core body temperature; use REXULTI with caution in patients who may experience these conditions.
Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use. Antipsychotic drugs, including REXULTI, should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration.
REXULTI, like other antipsychotics, may cause somnolence and has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. In the 6-week placebo-controlled clinical studies in patients with MDD, somnolence (including sedation and hypersomnia) was reported in 4% of REXULTI plus ADT-treated patients compared to 1% of placebo plus ADT-treated patients.
In the 6-week placebo-controlled clinical studies in adult patients with schizophrenia, somnolence (including sedation and hypersomnia) was reported in 5% of REXULTI-treated patients compared to 3% of placebo-treated patients.
In the 12-week placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in patients (51 to 90 years of age) with agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, somnolence (including sedation) was reported in 3% of patients treated with REXULTI compared to 1% of patients treated with placebo.
Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including motor vehicles, until they are reasonably certain that REXULTI therapy does not affect them adversely.
Advise the patient or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Advise patients and caregivers to look for the emergence of suicidality, especially early during treatment and when the dosage is adjusted up or down, and instruct them to report such symptoms to the healthcare provider [see BOX WARNING, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that REXULTI can be taken with or without food. Advise patients regarding importance of following dosage escalation instructions [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Counsel patients about a potentially fatal adverse reaction, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), that has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs. Advise patients to contact a healthcare provider or report to the emergency room if they experience signs or symptoms of NMS [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Counsel patients on the signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia and to contact their healthcare provider if these abnormal movements occur [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Educate patients about the risk of metabolic changes, how to recognize symptoms of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, and the need for specific monitoring, including blood glucose, lipids, and weight [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients and their caregivers of the possibility that they may experience compulsive urges to shop, intense urges to gamble, compulsive sexual urges, binge eating and/or other compulsive urges and the inability to control these urges while taking REXULTI. In some cases, but not all, the urges were reported to have stopped when the dose was reduced or stopped [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients with a pre-existing low WBC or a history of drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia that they should have their CBC monitored while taking REXULTI [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Educate patients about the risk of orthostatic hypotension and syncope, especially early in treatment, and also at times of reinitiating treatment or increases in dosage [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Counsel patients regarding appropriate care in avoiding overheating and dehydration [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Caution patients about performing activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating hazardous machinery or operating a motor vehicle, until they are reasonably certain that REXULTI therapy does not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to inform their healthcare providers of any changes to their current prescription or over-the-counter medications because there is a potential for clinically significant interactions [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Advise patients that third trimester use of REXULTI may cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in a neonate and to notify their healthcare provider with a known or suspected pregnancy. Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to REXULTI during pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Lifetime carcinogenicity studies were conducted in ICR mice and Sprague Dawley rats. Brexpiprazole was administered orally for two years to male and female mice at doses of 0.75, 2, and 5 mg/kg/day (0.9 to 6.1 times the oral MRHD of 4 mg/day based on mg/m2 body surface area) and to male and female rats at doses of 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg and 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day, respectively (2.4 to 24 and 7.3 to 73 times the oral MRHD, males and females). In female mice, the incidence of mammary gland adenocarcinoma was increased at all doses, and the incidence of adenosquamous carcinoma was increased at 2.4 and 6.1 times the MRHD. No increase in the incidence of tumors was observed in male mice. In the rat study, brexpiprazole was not carcinogenic in either sex at doses up to 73 times the MRHD.
Proliferative and/or neoplastic changes in the mammary and pituitary glands of rodents have been observed following chronic administration of antipsychotic drugs and are considered to be prolactin mediated. The potential for increasing serum prolactin level of brexpiprazole was shown in both mice and rats. The relevance for human risk of the findings of prolactin-mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is unknown.
Brexpiprazole was not mutagenic when tested in the in vitro bacterial reverse mutation assay (Ames test). Brexpiprazole was negative for clastogenic activity in the in vivo micronucleus assay in rats and was not genotoxic in the in vivo/in vitro unscheduled DNA synthesis assay in rats. In vitro with mammalian cells brexpiprazole was clastogenic but only at doses that induced cytotoxicity. Based on a weight of evidence, brexpiprazole is not considered to present a genotoxic risk to humans.
Female rats were treated with oral doses of 0.3, 3, or 30 mg/kg/day (0.7, 7.3, and 73 times the oral MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) prior to mating with untreated males and continuing through conception and implantation. Estrus cycle irregularities and decreased fertility were observed at 3 and 30 mg/kg/day. Prolonged duration of pairing and increased preimplantation losses were observed at 30 mg/kg/day.
Male rats were treated with oral doses of 3, 10, or 100 mg/kg/day (7.3, 24, and 240 times the oral MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) for 63 days prior to mating with untreated females and throughout the 14 days of mating. No differences were observed in the duration of mating or fertility indices in males at any dose of brexpiprazole.
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to REXULTI during pregnancy. For more information contact the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications at 1-866-961-2388 or visit https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/.
Adequate and well-controlled studies have not been conducted with REXULTI in pregnant women to inform drug-associated risks. However, neonates whose mothers are exposed to antipsychotic drugs, like REXULTI, during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms. In animal reproduction studies, no teratogenicity was observed with oral administration of brexpiprazole to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses up to 73 and 146 times, respectively, of maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 4 mg/day on a mg/m2 basis. However, when pregnant rats were administered brexpiprazole during the period of organogenesis through lactation, the number of perinatal deaths of pups was increased at 73 times the MRHD [see Data]. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress and feeding disorder, have been reported in neonates whose mothers were exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Monitor neonates for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately.
Animal Data
Pregnant rats were treated with oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day (7.3, 24, and 73 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis) of brexpiprazole during the period of organogenesis. Brexpiprazole was not teratogenic and did not cause adverse developmental effects at doses up to 73 times the MRHD.
Pregnant rabbits were treated with oral doses of 10, 30, and 150 mg/kg/day (49, 146, and 730 times the MRHD) of brexpiprazole during the period of organogenesis. Brexpiprazole was not teratogenic and did not cause adverse developmental effects at doses up to 146 times the MRHD. Findings of decreased body weight, retarded ossification, and increased incidences of visceral and skeletal variations were observed in fetuses at 730 times the MRHD, a dose that induced maternal toxicity.
In a study in which pregnant rats were administered oral doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day (7.3, 24, and 73 times the MRHD) during the period of organogenesis and through lactation, the number of live-born pups was decreased, and early postnatal deaths increased at a dose 73 times the MRHD. Impaired nursing by dams, and low birth weight and decreased body weight gain in pups were observed at 73 times, but not at 24 times, the MRHD.
Lactation studies have not been conducted to assess the presence of brexpiprazole in human milk, the effects of brexpiprazole on the breastfed infant, or the effects of brexpiprazole on milk production. Brexpiprazole is present in rat milk. The development and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for REXULTI and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from REXULTI or from the underlying maternal condition.
The safety and effectiveness of REXULTI for treatment of schizophrenia have been established in pediatric patients 13 years of age and older. Use of REXULTI in this population is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults and pediatric patients with schizophrenia, pharmacokinetic data from adults and pediatric patients, and safety data in pediatric patients 13 to 17 years of age [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS , ADVERSE REACTIONS , CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Clinical Studies].
The safety and effectiveness of REXULTI for the treatment of schizophrenia have not been established in pediatric patients less than 13 years of age.
The safety and effectiveness of REXULTI for treatment of major depressive disorder have not been established in pediatric patients. Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric patients [see BOX WARNING, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The safety and effectiveness of REXULTI for the treatment of irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder have not been established in pediatric patients. Effectiveness was not demonstrated, in an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, flexible-dose clinical study conducted in 119 REXULTI-treated pediatric patients 5 to 17 years of age with irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder diagnosed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition [DSM-5] criteria. In this study, somnolence (including sedation) occurred at a higher rate than reported in other REXULTI studies evaluating adults and elderly patients (16% in REXULTI-treated pediatric patients versus 5% for placebo). The mean increase in age-and-gender adjusted body weight z-score from baseline to last visit was 0.3 for REXULTI-treated patients versus 0.1 for placebo-treated patients. Increases in age-and-gender adjusted body weight z-score of at least 0.5 SD from baseline was higher in REXULTI-treated patients versus placebo (19% versus 5%).
Of the 119 patients from this study, 95 patients entered the open-label treatment study and received up to 26 weeks of daily treatment with brexpiprazole. During the open-label treatment period, 2% of patients discontinued due to weight increase. In patients previously treated with REXULTI for 8 weeks, the mean increase in weight from the open-label study baseline to last visit was 4.5 kg. and 26% of patients had an increase in age-and-gender-adjusted body weight z-score of at least 0.5 SD from baseline.
Juvenile Animal Studies
Juvenile rats were administered oral doses of brexpiprazole of 3, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day once daily beginning from weaning (postnatal day 21) through adulthood (postnatal day 90), followed by a 4-week recovery (non-dosing) period. Results were similar to those observed in previous repeat–dose toxicity studies in adolescent (8-week-old) rats. Mortality occurred at the high-dose of 20 mg/kg/day, as well as delayed sexual maturation in males and decreased rearing and motor activity. There was no evidence of neurotoxicity or effects on fertility and reproductive function. Histopathologic changes in reproductive organs and mammary glands occurred at all doses, were related to the pharmacology of brexpiprazole and were comparable to those in adult rats. All findings were at least partially reversible. Juvenile dogs were administered oral doses of brexpiprazole of 1, 3, and 30 mg/kg/day once daily starting at 8 or 9 weeks of age for 26 weeks, followed by an 8-week recovery (non-dosing) period. Decreases in body weight, lethargy, changes in heart rate, and immature male sex organs were observed at 30 mg/kg/day. These findings were at least partially reversible.
Antipsychotic drugs increase the risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. REXULTI is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see BOX WARNING, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Of the total number of REXULTI-treated patients in the clinical studies for the adjunctive therapy to antidepressants for MDD and for schizophrenia, 248 (3%) were 65 years of age and older (which included 45 (18%) patients who were 75 years of age and older). Clinical studies of REXULTI in these patients did not include sufficient numbers of patients 65 years of age and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger adult patients. In general, dosage selection for the treatment of MDD or schizophrenia in a geriatric patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, and cardiac function, concomitant diseases, and other drug therapy.
The total number of REXULTI-treated patients 65 years of age and older in the clinical studies for agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (Studies 6 and 7) was 448 (86%) including 170 (33%) patients 65 to 74 years of age, 228 (44%) patients 75 to 84 years of age, and 50 (10%) patients 85 years of age and older [see Clinical Studies].
In clinical studies of REXULTI for the treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease did not include sufficient numbers of younger adult patients to determine if patients 65 years of age and older respond differently than younger adult patients.
Dosage adjustment is recommended in known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers because these patients have higher brexpiprazole concentrations than normal metabolizers of CYP2D6. Approximately 8% of Caucasians and 3 to 8% of Black/African Americans cannot metabolize CYP2D6 substrates and are classified as poor metabolizers [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
The maximum recommended dosage in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score ≥7) is lower than those with mild hepatic impairment and those with normal hepatic function [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment generally had higher exposure to brexpiprazole than patients with normal hepatic function [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Greater exposure may increase the risk of REXULTI-associated adverse reactions .
The maximum recommended dosage in patients with CrCl<60 mL/minute is lower than those with mild renal impairment and those with normal renal function [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Patients with renal impairment had higher exposure to brexpiprazole than patients with normal renal function [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Greater exposure may increase the risk of REXULTI-associated adverse reactions.
The recommended dosage for REXULTI is the same in males and females, in different racial groups, and in smokers and nonsmokers [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
There is limited clinical trial experience regarding human overdosage with REXULTI.
Management of a REXULTI overdose should concentrate on supportive therapy, maintaining an adequate airway, oxygenation and ventilation, and management of symptoms. Close medical supervision and monitoring should continue until the patient recovers.
Consider contacting the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations.
Oral activated charcoal and sorbitol (50 g/240 mL), administered one hour after ingesting oral REXULTI, decreased brexpiprazole Cmax and area under the curve (AUC) by approximately 5% to 23% and 31% to 39% respectively; however, there is insufficient information available on the therapeutic potential of activated charcoal in treating an overdose with REXULTI.
There is no information on the effect of hemodialysis in treating an overdose with REXULTI; hemodialysis is unlikely to be useful because brexpiprazole is highly bound to plasma proteins.
REXULTI is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to brexpiprazole or any of its components. Reactions have included rash, facial swelling, urticaria, and anaphylaxis.
The mechanism of action of REXULTI in the adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder, treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, or treatment of schizophrenia is unknown. However, the efficacy of REXULTI may be mediated through a combination of partial agonist activity at serotonin 5-HT1A and dopamine D2 receptors, and antagonist activity at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors.
Brexpiprazole has affinity (expressed as Ki) for multiple monoaminergic receptors including serotonin 5-HT1A (0.12 nM), 5-HT2A (0.47 nM), 5-HT2B (1.9 nM), 5-HT7 (3.7 nM), dopamine D2 (0.30 nM), D3 (1.1 nM), and noradrenergic α1A (3.8 nM), α1B (0.17 nM), α1D (2.6 nM), and α2C (0.59 nM) receptors. Brexpiprazole acts as a partial agonist at the 5-HT1A, D2, and D3 receptors and as an antagonist at 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B, 5-HT7, α1A, α1B, α1D, and α2C receptors. Brexpiprazole also exhibits affinity for histamine H1 receptor (19 nM) and for muscarinic M1 receptor (67% inhibition at 10 μM).
At a dose 3 times the MRHD for the treatment of schizophrenia and 4 times the MRHD for adjunctive therapy to antidepressants for the treatment of MDD or agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, REXULTI does not prolong the QTc interval to any clinically relevant extent.
After single-dose administration of REXULTI tablets, the peak plasma brexpiprazole concentrations occurred within 4 hours after administration, and the absolute oral bioavailability was 95%. Brexpiprazole steady-state concentrations were attained within 10 to 12 days of dosing.
REXULTI can be administered with or without food. Administration of a 4 mg REXULTI tablet with a standard high-fat meal did not significantly affect the Cmax or AUC of brexpiprazole. After single and multiple once daily dose administration, brexpiprazole exposure (Cmax and AUC) increased in proportion to the dose administered. In vitro studies of brexpiprazole did not indicate that brexpiprazole is a substrate of efflux transporters such as MDRI (P-gp) and BCRP.
The volume of distribution of brexpiprazole following intravenous administration is high (1.56 ± 0.42 L/kg), indicating extravascular distribution. Brexpiprazole is highly protein bound in plasma (greater than 99%) to serum albumin and α1-acid glycoprotein, and its protein binding is not affected by renal or hepatic impairment. Based on results of in vitro studies, brexpiprazole protein binding is not affected by warfarin, diazepam, or digitoxin.
Metabolism
Based on in vitro metabolism studies of brexpiprazole using recombinant human cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1, 1A2, 2A6, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4), the metabolism of brexpiprazole was shown to be mainly mediated by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6.
In vivo brexpiprazole is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes. After single- and multiple-dose administrations, brexpiprazole and its major metabolite, DM-3411, were the predominant drug moieties in the systemic circulation. At steady-state, DM-3411 represented 23% to 48% of brexpiprazole exposure (AUC) in plasma. DM-3411 is considered not to contribute to the therapeutic effects of brexpiprazole.
Based on in vitro data, brexpiprazole showed little to no inhibition of CYP450 isozymes.
Excretion
Following a single oral dose of [14C]-labeled brexpiprazole, approximately 25% and 46% of the administered radioactivity was recovered in the urine and feces, respectively. Less than 1% of unchanged brexpiprazole was excreted in the urine, and approximately 14% of the oral dose was recovered unchanged in the feces. Apparent oral clearance of a brexpiprazole oral tablet after once daily administration is 19.8 (±11.4) mL/h/kg. After multiple once-daily administrations of REXULTI, the terminal elimination half-lives of brexpiprazole and its major metabolite, DM-3411, were 91 hours and 86 hours, respectively.
Exposure of brexpiprazole in specific populations are summarized in Figure 1. Population pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis indicated exposure of brexpiprazole in patients with moderate renal impairment was higher compared to patients with normal renal function.
Figure 1 The Effect of Intrinsic Factors on Brexpiprazole Pharmacokinetics
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A multiple dose PK study (0.5, 1, 2, 3 or 4 mg/day) has been conducted in 43 pediatric patients aged 13 years to 17 years old. Population PK analysis indicated systemic exposure (Cmax and AUC) of brexpiprazole in pediatric patients (13 to 17 years of age) was comparable to that in adult patients across the dose range from 0.5 to 4 mg.
Effect of other drugs on the exposures of brexpiprazole are summarized in Figure 2. Based on simulation, a 5.1-fold increase in AUC values at steady-state is expected when extensive metabolizers of CYP2D6 are administered with both strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors. A 4.8-fold increase in mean AUC values at steady-state is expected in poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Figure 2 The Effect of Other Drugs on Brexpiprazole Pharmacokinetics
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The effect of REXULTI on the exposures of other drugs are summarized in Figure 3.
Figure 3 The Effect of REXULTI on Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs
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The efficacy of REXULTI in the adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) was evaluated in two 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose studies of adult patients meeting DSM-IV-TR criteria for MDD, with or without symptoms of anxiety, who had an inadequate response to prior antidepressant therapy (1 to 3 courses) in the current episode and who had also demonstrated an inadequate response throughout the 8 weeks of prospective antidepressant treatment (with escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine controlled-release, sertraline, duloxetine delayed release, or venlafaxine extended release). Inadequate response during the prospective antidepressant treatment phase was defined as having persistent symptoms without substantial improvement throughout the course of treatment.
Patients in Study 1 (NCT01360645) were randomized to REXULTI 2 mg once a day or placebo. Patients in Study 2 (NCT01360632) were randomized to REXULTI 1 or 3 mg once a day or placebo. For patients randomized to REXULTI, all patients initiated treatment at 0.5 mg once daily during Week 1. At Week 2, the REXULTI dosage was increased to 1 mg in all treatment groups, and either maintained at 1 mg or increased to 2 mg or 3 mg once daily, based on treatment assignment, from Week 3 onwards. The dosages were then maintained for the 4 remaining weeks.
The primary endpoint was change from baseline to Week 6 in the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), a 10-item clinician-related scale used to assess the degree of depressive symptomatology, with 0 representing no symptoms and 60 representing worst symptoms.
At randomization, the mean MADRS total score was 27. In Studies 1 and 2, REXULTI (plus ADT) 2 mg once daily and 3 mg once daily were superior to placebo plus ADT in reducing mean MADRS total scores. Results from the primary efficacy parameters for both fixed dose studies are shown below in Table 13. Figure 4 below shows the time course of response based on the primary efficacy measure (MADRS) in Study 1.
Table 13 Change in MADRS from Baseline at Week 6 in Adult Patients for Adjunctive Treatment of MDD (Study 1 and Study 2)
| Study | Treatment Group | N | Mean Baseline Score (SD) |
LS Mean Change from Baseline (SE) |
Placebo-subtracted Difference* (95% CI) |
| 1 | REXULTI (2 mg/day) + ADT† | 175 | 26.9 (5.7) | -8.4 (0.6) | -3.2 (-4.9, -1.5) |
| Placebo + ADT | 178 | 27.3 (5.6) | -5.2 (0.6) | -- | |
| 2 | REXULTI (1 mg/day) + ADT | 211 | 26.5 (5.6) | -7.6 (0.5) | -1.3 (-2.7, 0.1) |
| REXULTI (3 mg/day) + ADT | 213 | 26.5 (5.3) | -8.3 (0.5) | -2.0 (-3.4, -0.5) | |
| Placebo + ADT | 203 | 26.5 (5.2) | -6.3 (0.5) | -- | |
| SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: unadjusted confidence interval *Difference (drug minus placebo) in least-squares mean change from baseline †Dosages statistically significantly superior to placebo |
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An examination of population subgroups did not suggest differential response based on age, gender, race, or choice of prospective antidepressant.
Figure 4 Change from Baseline in MADRS Total Score by Study Visit (Week) in Patients with MDD in Adults (Study 1)
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The efficacy of REXULTI in the treatment of adults with schizophrenia was demonstrated in two 6-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose clinical studies in patients who met DSM-IV-TR criteria for schizophrenia.
In both studies, Study 3 (NCT01396421) and Study 4 (NCT01393613), patients were randomized to REXULTI 2 or 4 mg once per day or placebo. Patients in the REXULTI groups initiated treatment at 1 mg once daily on Days 1 to 4. The REXULTI dosage was increased to 2 mg on Days 5 to 7. The dosage was then either maintained at 2 mg once daily or increased to 4 mg once daily, depending on treatment assignment, for the 5 remaining weeks.
The primary efficacy endpoint of both studies was the change from baseline to Week 6 in the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total score. The PANSS is a 30-item scale that measures positive symptoms of schizophrenia (7 items), negative symptoms of schizophrenia (7 items), and general psychopathology (16 items), each rated on a scale of 1 (absent) to 7 (extreme); the total PANSS scores range from 30 (best) to 210 (worst).
In Study 3, REXULTI at both 2 mg once daily and 4 mg once daily was superior to placebo on the PANSS total score. In Study 4, REXULTI 4 mg once daily was superior to placebo on the PANSS total score (Table 14). Figure 5 shows the time course of response based on the primary efficacy measure (change from baseline in PANSS total score) in Study 3. Examination of population subgroups based on age, sex, and race did not suggest differential responsiveness.
Table 14 Change in PANSS Total Score from Baseline at Week 6 in Adult Patients in Studies of Schizophrenia (Study 3 and Study 4)
| Study | Treatment Group | N | Mean Baseline Score (SD) |
LS Mean Change from Baseline (SE) |
Placebo-subtracted Difference* (95% CI) |
| 3 | REXULTI (2 mg/day)† | 180 | 95.9 (13.8) | -20.7 (1.5) | -8.7 (-13.1, -4.4) |
| REXULTI (4 mg/day) † | 178 | 94.7 (12.1) | -19.7 (1.5) | -7.6 (-12.0, -3.1) | |
| Placebo | 178 | 95.7 (11.5) | -12.0 (1.6) | -- | |
| 4 | REXULTI (2 mg/day) | 179 | 96.3 (12.9) | -16.6 (1.5) | -3.1 (-7.2, 1.1) |
| REXULTI (4 mg/day) † | 181 | 95.0 (12.4) | -20.0 (1.5) | -6.5 (-10.6, -2.4) | |
| Placebo | 180 | 94.6 (12.8) | -13.5 (1.5) | -- | |
| SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: unadjusted confidence interval *Difference (drug minus placebo) in least-squares mean change from baseline †Dosages statistically significantly superior to placebo |
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Figure 5 Change from Baseline in PANSS Total Score by Study Visit (Week) in Adult Patients with Schizophrenia (Study 3)
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The safety and efficacy of REXULTI as maintenance treatment in adults with schizophrenia aged 18 to 65 years were demonstrated in the maintenance phase of a randomized withdrawal study (Study 5, NCT01668797). Patients were stabilized for at least 12 weeks on 1 to 4 mg/day of REXULTI (N=202). They were then randomized in the double-blind treatment phase to either continue REXULTI at their achieved stable dose (N=97), or to switch to placebo (N=105).
The primary endpoint in Study 5 was time from randomization to impending relapse during the double-blind phase, defined as: 1) Clinical Global Improvement score of ≥5 (minimally worse) and an increase to a score >4 on PANSS conceptual disorganization, hallucinatory behavior, suspiciousness, or unusual thought content items, with either a ≥2 increase on a specific item or ≥4 point increase on the combined four PANSS items, 2) hospitalization due to worsening of psychotic symptoms, 3) current suicidal behavior, or 4) violent/aggressive behavior.
A pre-specified interim analysis demonstrated a statistically significantly longer time to relapse in patients randomized to the REXULTI group compared to placebo-treated patients. The study was subsequently terminated early because maintenance of efficacy had been demonstrated. The Kaplan-Meier curves of the cumulative proportion of patients with relapse during the double-blind treatment phase for REXULTI and placebo groups are shown in Figure 6. The key secondary endpoint, the proportion of patients who met the criteria for impending relapse, was statistically significantly lower in REXULTI-treated patients compared with placebo group.
Figure 6 Kaplan-Meier Estimation of Percent Impending Relapse in Study 5
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| Note: A total of 202 patients were randomized. Among them, one patient in the placebo group did not take investigational medicinal product and one patient in the REXULTI group did not have post-randomization efficacy evaluations. These two patients were excluded from the efficacy analysis. |
The efficacy of REXULTI in the treatment of schizophrenia in pediatric patients 13 to 17 years of age was demonstrated in a 6-week, randomized and placebo-controlled, clinical study.
In Study 6 (NCT03198078), patients were randomized to REXULTI 2 mg to 4 mg once per day, active comparator, or placebo. Patients in the REXULTI group initiated treatment at 0.5 mg once daily on Days 1 to 4. The REXULTI dosage was increased to 1 mg daily on Days 5 to 7, and then increased to 2 mg on Days 8 to 14. The dosage was then either maintained at 2 mg or increased to 3 mg once daily from Days 15 to 21 based on patient’s tolerability or clinical response. After the titration period, patients were either kept at a maintenance dose, or increased or decreased by 1 mg, for a maximum of REXULTI 4 mg daily.
The primary efficacy endpoint was the change from baseline to Week 6 in the PANSS total score.
In Study 6, REXULTI group showed a statistically significant improvement compared to placebo on the mean change from baseline in the PANSS total score (Table 15).
Figure 7 shows the time course of response based on the primary efficacy measure (change from baseline in PANSS total score) in Study 6.
Table 15 Change in PANSS Total Score from Baseline at Week 6 in Pediatric Patients 13 to 17 years of age in Study of Schizophrenia (Study 6)
| Study | Treatment Group | N* | Mean Baseline Score (SD) |
LS Mean Change from Baseline (SE) |
Placebosubtracted Difference† (95% CI) |
| 6 | REXULTI (2 - 4 mg/day)‡ | 110 | 101.1 (14.9) | -22.8 (1.5) | -5.3 (-9.6, - 1.1) |
| Placebo | 103 | 102.2 (16.3) | -17.4 (1.6) | -- | |
| SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: confidence interval * Efficacy sample includes treated subjects who have baseline and at least 1 post-baseline efficacy evaluation for the PANSS Total Score † Difference (drug minus placebo) in least-squares mean change from baseline ‡ Dosages statistically significantly superior to placebo |
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Figure 7 Change from Baseline in PANSS Total Score by Study Visit (Week) in Pediatric Patients 13 to 17 years of age with Schizophrenia (Study 6)
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The efficacy of REXULTI in the treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease was demonstrated in two 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose studies (Study 6, NCT01862640 and Study 7, NCT03548584). In these studies, patients were required to:
Study 6 included 433 patients with a mean age of 74 years old, and a range of 51 and 90 years old; 45% were male; 96%, 3%, and 1%, were White, Black or African American, and Asian, respectively; and 16% and 83% were Latino/Hispanic and not Latino/Hispanic, respectively. Study 7 included 345 patients with a mean age of 74 years old, and a range of 56 and 90 years old; 44% were male; 95%, 4%, and 1% were White, Black or African American, and Asian, respectively; and 31% and 69% were Latino/Hispanic and not Latino/Hispanic, respectively.
The primary efficacy endpoint in these two studies was the change from baseline in the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory total (CMAI) score at Week 12. The CMAI is a clinician rated questionnaire consisting of 29 items, which assess the frequency of manifestations of agitated behaviors in elderly patients, based on caregiver input. Three specific factors can be derived from the CMAI scale: 1) Aggressive Behavior (e.g., screaming, throwing things, cursing/verbal aggression, kicking, pushing scratching, hurting self or others); 2) Physically Non-Aggressive Behavior (e.g., repetitive mannerisms, general restlessness, pacing); and 3) Verbally Agitated Behavior (e.g., complaining, repetitive questions, constant requests for attention). Each CMAI behavior was rated on a scale of 1 (never) to 7 (very frequent agitated behaviors); the total CMAI scores range from 29 (best) to 203 (worst). A negative change indicates improvement.
In Trial 6, patients in the REXULTI 2 mg group showed improved total CMAI scores compared to patients in the placebo group at Week 12. In Trial 7, patients in the REXULTI 2 mg/3 mg group showed improved total CMAI scores compared to patients in the placebo group at Week 12.
As shown in Table 16 and Figure 8, the mean change from baseline in the total CMAI score after 12 weeks in the 2 mg/or 3 mg REXULTI group was statistically significantly superior to the placebo group. The 1 mg REXULTI group did not demonstrate significantly greater mean changes at baseline from the placebo group in the total CMAI score in this patient population. The 1 mg once day REXULTI dosage is not approved and is not recommended for the treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Table 16: Change in CMAI Total Score* from Baseline at Week 12 in Patients with Agitation Associated with Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease (Study 6 and Study 7)
| Study | Treatment Group | N | Mean Baseline Score (SD) | LS Mean Change from Baseline (SE) | Placebo subtracted Difference† (95% CI) |
| 6 | REXULTI 1 mg/day | 134 | 70.5 (16.0) | -17.6 (1.3) | 0.2 (-3.4, 3.9) |
| REXULTI 2 mg/day‡ | 138 | 71.0 (16.6) | -21.6 (1.3) | -3.8 (-7.4, -0.2) | |
| Placebo | 131 | 72.2 (17.9) | -17.8 (1.3) | — | |
| 7 | REXULTI 2 mg/day or 3 mg/day‡ | 225 | 80.6 (16.6) | -22.6 (1.1) | -5.3 (-8.8, -1.9) |
| Placebo | 116 | 79.2 (17.5) | -17.3 (1.4) | — | |
| SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: unadjusted confidence interval *In a supplementary analysis to examine the magnitude and direction of CMAI subscale response, Factor 1 (aggressive behavior), Factor 2 (physically non-aggressive behavior), and Factor 3 (verbal agitation) scores trended in the same direction with no single factor overly influencing the CMAI total score. †Difference (drug minus placebo) in least-squares mean change from baseline ‡Dosages statistically significantly superior to placebo. |
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Figure 8: Change from Baseline in Total CMAI Score by Study Week in Patients with Agitation Associated with Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease (Study 7)
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REXULTI®
(REX-ul-TE)
(brexpiprazole) tablets, for oral use
What is the most important information I should know about REXULTI?
REXULTI may cause serious side effects, including:
How can I watch for and try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions in myself or a family member?
See “What are the possible side effects of REXULTI?” for more information about side effects.
What is REXULTI?
REXULTI is a prescription medicine used:
REXULTI should not be used as an “as needed” treatment for agitation that may happen with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.
It is not known if REXULTI is safe and effective for the treatment of MDD in children.
It is not known if REXULTI is safe and effective for the treatment of schizophrenia in children under 13 years of age.
Who should not take REXULTI?
Do not take REXULTI if you are allergic to brexpiprazole or any of the ingredients in REXULTI. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in REXULTI.
Before taking REXULTI, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. REXULTI and other medicines may affect each other causing possible serious side effects. REXULTI may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how REXULTI works.
Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take REXULTI with your other medicines. Do not start or stop any medicines during treatment with REXULTI without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I take REXULTI?
Take REXULTI exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Your healthcare provider may change your dose if needed. Do not change the dose or stop taking REXULTI without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Take REXULTI 1 time each day with or without food.
If you take too much REXULTI, call your healthcare provider or Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.
What should I avoid while taking REXULTI?
What are the possible side effects of REXULTI?
REXULTI may cause serious side effects, including:
The most common side effects of REXULTI in adults include weight gain, sleepiness, dizziness, common cold symptoms, and restlessness or feeling like you need to move (akathisia).
The most common side effects of REXULTI in children 13 to 17 years of age include difficulty moving or slow movement, tremors (shaking), abnormal eye movements, and muscle stiffness.
These are not all the possible side effects of REXULTI.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store REXULTI?
Keep REXULTI and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of REXULTI.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use REXULTI for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give REXULTI to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about REXULTI that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in REXULTI?
Active ingredient: brexpiprazole
Inactive ingredients: lactose monohydrate, corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, and talc
For color: titanium dioxide, iron oxide, and ferrosoferric oxide
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
