Introduction
Rexulti (brexpiprazole) is an antipsychotic medication prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD) and schizophrenia. It is often added when antidepressants alone do not provide enough relief.
Across patient forums and personal stories, many people describe deeply negative experiences—often summed up in one sentence: “Rexulti ruined my life.” This article blends my personal experience with clinical safety information and independent research to explain why so many patients feel unprepared for Rexulti’s impact.
What Is Rexulti?
Rexulti, also known as brexpiprazole, is commonly prescribed for MDD and schizophrenia. It is usually added to other antidepressants when symptoms do not fully improve.
The medication works by modulating brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin, which regulate mood, motivation, and thought processes. While clinical studies show it can be effective, not every patient responds the same way. Some experience mild effects like fatigue or sleep changes, while others face serious emotional or physical side effects that disrupt daily life.
Why I Started Taking Rexulti
Before Rexulti, I struggled with low mood, poor motivation, and constant fatigue. Even basic tasks felt overwhelming. Antidepressants helped only partially.
My doctor recommended Rexulti to improve mood stability and focus. I trusted the advice and hoped it would help. What I wasn’t prepared for was how deeply it would affect my emotions, body, and ability to function.
The Side Effects That Changed Everything
Emotional and Mental Effects
The most damaging change was emotional numbness. I felt detached from myself and from others. Motivation dropped so low that even small responsibilities felt impossible.
Anxiety and irritability came in waves. Concentration became difficult. At times, I felt hopeless—not because of depression alone, but because I no longer felt like myself.
Physical Effects
Fatigue became constant. Some nights I couldn’t sleep at all. Other days I felt sedated and heavy. Weight changes, nausea, sweating, dizziness, muscle stiffness, tremors, and appetite shifts followed.
Simple activities like working, driving, or holding conversations felt risky. The physical symptoms reinforced the emotional ones, creating a cycle that made daily life exhausting.
Other Commonly Reported Symptoms
Many patients report headaches, blurred vision, abnormal dreams, heart palpitations, restlessness, and difficulty thinking clearly. These symptoms make life unpredictable and contribute to the feeling that Rexulti takes more than it gives.
Serious Risks and Long-Term Effects
Some risks are rare but severe and require immediate medical attention:
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion
- Tardive Dyskinesia: involuntary movements that may be permanent
- Metabolic complications: diabetes, high cholesterol, significant weight gain
- Compulsive behaviors: gambling, binge eating, shopping, sexual urges
- Orthostatic hypotension: dizziness, fainting, falls
- Seizures, swallowing difficulties, excessive sedation
FDA warnings also note increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia‑related psychosis and suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Figure: Top reported long-term effects of Rexulti (brexpiprazole) based on patient reports, FDA safety warnings, and published clinical studies. Severity reflects reported impact, not individual outcomes.
What Research Shows
Independent studies raise additional concerns:
- Short-term trials (6 weeks): frequent akathisia and noticeable weight gain
- Long-term open-label studies (up to 52 weeks): nearly 60% of participants reported adverse effects, and only about one-third completed treatment
Reported issues included worsening depression, suicidality, tremors, headaches, metabolic dysfunction, insomnia, sedation, psychosis, compulsive behaviors, and cognitive impairment.
Why So Many Patients Say “Rexulti Ruined My Life”
For many patients, the problem is not just side effects—it’s the gap between expectations and reality. The medication is presented as a mild add-on, yet the impact can be intense and long-lasting.
Early warning signs often include restlessness, sleep disruption, dizziness, headaches, digestive problems, and emotional flattening. When these signs are missed or minimized, patients can deteriorate quickly.
Stopping or Reducing Rexulti
Discontinuing Rexulti is not always easy. Emotional numbness, fatigue, and cognitive issues may persist even after stopping. Recovery is gradual and should always be supervised by a healthcare provider.
Tracking mood, energy levels, and physical symptoms during tapering is critical to avoid complications.
What I Wasn’t Properly Warned About
I knew side effects were possible. I wasn’t prepared for their intensity or duration.
Things I wish I had known earlier:
- Emotional numbness can be severe and long-lasting
- Motivation and focus may drop dramatically
- Recovery after stopping can take weeks or longer
- Physical symptoms may persist even after discontinuation
What I Wish I Knew Before Taking Rexulti
Looking back, I wish I had:
- Asked about side effect severity and duration
- Understood that recovery after stopping may take time
- Explored alternative treatments before committing
- Tracked symptoms closely for early intervention
Who Should Be Extra Careful
Extra caution may be needed for:
- Patients sensitive to psychiatric medications
- Individuals with pre‑existing physical conditions
- People prone to emotional blunting
- Anyone who relies on focus, coordination, or alertness for daily life
Alternatives & Coping Strategies
Only a doctor can recommend medication changes, but many patients explore other supports. These may include different medications, psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, mindfulness practices, social support, and carefully chosen supplements.
Open communication with healthcare providers is essential.
Final Thoughts
Rexulti helps some people. For others, it causes harm they were never warned about. My experience—and many others—shows why transparency, caution, and patient-centered decision-making matter.
If you are struggling, seek professional guidance. You are not weak. You are not alone.
FAQs
How soon do side effects appear?
Some appear within days or weeks. Others develop gradually over months.
Are side effects permanent?
Most improve after stopping or adjusting the dose. Some, like tardive dyskinesia, may be long-term.
Can symptoms improve after stopping Rexulti?
Yes, but recovery may take time.
When should I contact a doctor?
If side effects interfere with daily life or if serious symptoms such as high fever, muscle stiffness, or uncontrollable movements occur.
References
- U.S. FDA – Brexpiprazole Prescribing Information
- Mayo Clinic – Brexpiprazole Overview
- MedlinePlus – Brexpiprazole Side Effects and Warnings
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Antipsychotic Medications