Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Otsuka) announces that the antipsychotic drug REXULTI^® (brexpiprazole) has been newly listed in the Essential Medicines List for the Ultra-Acute Phase of Disasters, established by the Japanese Association for Disaster Medicine (JADM).

The Essential Medicines List for the Ultra-Acute Phase of Disasters, defined by the JADM, is a list of medicines required at medical relief stations and evacuation centers in the immediate aftermath of a disaster for approximately the first ten days, with the aim to improve the quality of disaster medical care.

The list excludes life-saving emergency care medicines carried by Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT) intended for stockpiling at designated sites or regions, supplied by pharmaceutical wholesalers from outside the affected area immediately after the disaster, or carried by medical teams other than DMAT.

People living with dementia often face significant challenges adapting to sudden changes in living conditions during evacuation. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) may worsen in disaster settings due to stress from communal living with unfamiliar individuals, difficulty contacting family or caregivers, changes in diet and toileting environments, and inadequate medication management.

The inclusion in this list of REXULTI, which is indicated for excessive motor activity or physically/verbally aggressive behavior due to rapid changes in mood, irritability, and/or outbursts associated with Alzheimer's-type dementia, represents a new perspective in addressing challenges in disaster medicine.

Akihiro Watanabe, pharmacist and chair of the JADM Pharmaceutical Affairs Committee, commented: "During disasters, it is essential to address the needs of vulnerable populations, including those with dementia. The addition of REXULTI to the list for the first time will help improve the quality of disaster medical care, reduce the burden on caregivers and supporters, and help preserve patients' dignity".

About the Japanese Association for Disaster Medicine（JADM）

The JADM is a professional organization dedicated to improving medical systems during disasters through scientific research and education. It promotes collaboration among physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other professionals, and works to enhance the quality of disaster medicine through initiatives such as developing essential medicine lists, training programs, and academic conferences. For more information, please visit https://jadm.or.jp/（in Japanese)

About Otsuka

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a total healthcare company that focuses on each individual's potential to enhance their well-being. Our medical-related business provides treatments and diagnostics for both physical and mental health. Our nutraceutical business supports daily health maintenance and improvement. Otsuka's unique products and services are based on scientific evidence, under the guidance of our corporate philosophy: Otsuka-people creating new products for better health worldwide. For further information, please visit www.otsuka.co.jp/en/.