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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sunnyvale, CA

My psychiatrist prescribed it but I am concerned about the side effects. I have not filled my prescription.

December 9, 2025
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences with Rexulti, with one person reporting it works okay but causes unwanted side effects when taken alongside... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences with Rexulti, with one person reporting it works okay but causes unwanted side effects when taken alongside risperidone, while others offered insights into similar medications like Abilify and Risperdal. Several members discussed how Abilify has been helpful for anxiety and irritability but can increase appetite and lead to weight concerns, with one member finding relief from constant food thoughts through Wegovy. A recurring theme was the importance of seeking peer experiences on platforms like Health Unlocked while remembering that everyone reacts differently to psychiatric medications.

A MyAutismTeam Member

Totally understandable

December 10, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

Other Potential Serious Side Effects
Rexulti may cause other serious side effects, so it is important to discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider:
Metabolic changes, including high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and diabetes
Uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia)
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal condition
Low white blood cell count
Difficulty swallowing

Rexulti (brexpiprazole) is not FDA-approved for treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has, however, requested studies into its use for irritability associated with autism in children and adolescents, though a recent Phase 3 trial did not show a significant effect compared to a placebo.
Current Status of Rexulti for Autism
Not an FDA-Approved Treatment for Autism: Rexulti is currently approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents (ages 13 and older), as an add-on therapy for major depressive disorder in adults, and for agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. It does not have an official indication for any symptom of autism.
Ongoing Research: The manufacturer has investigated Rexulti's potential to treat irritability (including aggression and self-injury) in children and adolescents with ASD through clinical trials. The initial results from a Phase 3 trial indicated no significant efficacy versus placebo for this use.
Off-Label Use: It is likely that other antipsychotics, including brexpiprazole (Rexulti), may be used "off-label" for severe behavioral issues in people with autism if FDA-approved options are insufficient.
FDA-Approved Medications for Autism-Related Irritability
Currently, only two medications are FDA-approved specifically for the management of irritability associated with autistic disorder in pediatric patients:
Risperidone (Risperdal): Approved for children aged 5 to 16 years.
Aripiprazole (Abilify): Approved for children aged 6 to 17 years.

December 10, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

I just read that Rexulti may have fewer side effects than Abilify. The only downside is that it is only available in the brand-name form, I believe.

December 9, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

Try healthunlocked.com plenty of people/patients on there with real live experience of medications but remember not everyone reacts the same way to certain medication. They should be able to tell you something though

December 9, 2025
A MyAutismTeam Member

I’ve been taking Rexulti and so far it’s okay, but I don’t like the side effects. I take it at night with risperidone.

January 2

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