Abilify (aripiprazole) can be an alternative antipsychotic to Rexulti (brexpiprazole). However, which one is best depends largely on the patient.
Rexulti Overview
Uses
People mainly use Rexulti to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and major depressive disorder (MDD).
Side Effects
Common Rexulti side effects include:
- weight gain and increased appetite,
- drowsiness,
- dizziness,
- lightheadedness,
- shaking,
- restlessness,
- inability to keep still, and
- serious drops in blood pressure, especially when starting or increasing its dosage.
Some serious side effects may include:
- trouble swallowing,
- fainting,
- interrupted breathing during sleep, and
- unusual (for the patient) strong urges, such as increased gambling or increased sexual urges.
Rarely, Rexulti can cause a condition called tardive dyskinesia that in some cases may be permanent. Signs that you may be developing tardive dyskinesia are unusual or uncontrolled movements, particularly of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs.
This medication may also rarely cause a very serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). NMS symptoms may include:
- fever,
- muscle stiffness,
- tenderness,
- weakness or pain,
- severe tiredness,
- severe confusion,
- sweating,
- fast or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia and arrhythmia, respectively), and
- dark urine or change in the amount of urine.
Other rare side effects of Rexulti are increased blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which in turn can raise the risk for diabetes and heart diseases.
Rexulti may also increase the blood level of prolactin, which can cause unwanted breast milk, missed or stopped periods, and difficulty becoming pregnant in cisgender women. Whereas in cisgender men, an excess of prolactin can cause enlarged breasts, decreased sexual ability, and an inability to produce sperm.
Always consult your doctor if any of these symptoms arise while you are taking Rexulti. To learn more, please visit our page on Rexulti side effects.
Abilify Overview
Uses
People typically use Abilify in the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, autistic disorder irritability, and Tourette syndrome.
Side Effects
Abilify’s most common side effects include:
- dizziness,
- lightheadedness,
- drowsiness,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- tiredness,
- excessive saliva,
- blurred vision,
- weight gain,
- constipation,
- headache, and
- trouble sleeping.
More serious side effects can include:
- fainting,
- anxiety,
- depression and suicidal thoughts,
- trouble sleeping,
- difficulty swallowing,
- restlessness,
- shaking and muscle spasm,
- seizures, and
- unusual (for the patient) strong urges, such as increased gambling and increased sexual urges.
Rarely, Abilify can cause a condition called tardive dyskinesia that in some cases may be permanent. Signs that you may be developing tardive dyskinesia are unusual or uncontrolled movements, particularly of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, arms, or legs.
This medication may also rarely cause a very serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). NMS symptoms may include:
- fever,
- muscle stiffness,
- tenderness,
- weakness or pain,
- severe tiredness,
- severe confusion,
- sweating,
- fast or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia and arrhythmia, respectively), and
- dark urine or change in the amount of urine.
Rarely, Abilify increases blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which in turn can raise the risk for diabetes and heart diseases.
Always consult your doctor if any of these symptoms arise while you are taking Abilify.
Rexulti vs Abilify
So, when it comes to choosing the best medication for you, what should you discuss with your doctor?
Differences
- Abilify can also be used for bipolar disorder, autistic disorder irritability, and Tourette syndrome
- Abilify is more energizing than other antipsychotics
- Abilify is available as a generic and it is cheaper than Rexulti
- Abilify is available in pills, dissolving tablets, liquid and injection, whereas Rexulti is only available in pills
Which is More Effective?
Both Rexulti and Abilify are effective in treating symptoms of schizophrenia and major depressive disorder. However, Abilify can also help with depression when other antidepressants have failed.
FAQ
What is the difference between aripiprazole and brexpiprazole?
Both aripiprazole and brexpiprazole are effectively used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and major depressive disorder. However, aripiprazole is also used for bipolar disorder, autistic disorder irritability, and Tourette syndrome. Besides, aripiprazole is more energizing than brexpiprazole, and generally has fewer side effects than other antipsychotics.
Brexpiprazole is only available in pills and more expensive than other antipsychotic drugs, whereas aripiprazole is available in pills, dissolving tablets, liquid and injection. It also is available as a generic and thus a cheaper option compared to other antipsychotic medicines.
Is Rexulti a mood stabilizer?
Yes, Rexulti is a mood stabilizer. This medication can help improve your mood and boost your energy levels. It can also improve your sleep and appetite, help you think more clearly, and feel less nervous while taking part in your everyday life.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.