Consider brexpiprazole for agitation in Alzheimer’s disease, with new therapies under investigation for agitation and psychosis

Agitation and psychosis are common, highly challenging symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although non-pharmacological strategies are the recommended first-line treatment for agitation and psychosis in AD, pharmacological interventions may be necessary if there is severe risk of self-harm or harm to others. Brexpiprazole is approved by the US FDA for treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to AD, while other medications are used off label. Several novel and repurposed drugs are under investigation for use in agitation and psychosis in AD.