Invega, containing the active ingredient paliperidone, is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to manage symptoms of serious mental health conditions. It influences neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which regulate mood, thought, and perception, to help alleviate symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions,.
FDA-Approved Indications for Invega
Invega is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for two main conditions across different age groups and forms.
Schizophrenia
Invega is indicated for treating schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 12 to 17. Schizophrenia is a chronic disorder affecting thinking, perception, and emotions, characterized by positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. Invega helps manage these symptoms to prevent relapse. Long-acting injectable versions like Invega Sustenna (monthly), Trinza (every 3 months), and Hafyera (every 6 months) are available for adults, offering an alternative to daily oral medication and potentially improving adherence,.
Schizoaffective Disorder
Invega is also approved for treating schizoaffective disorder in adults. This disorder involves symptoms of schizophrenia and a mood disorder. Invega can be used alone or with other medications like mood stabilizers and antidepressants. Invega Sustenna is an approved injectable option for this condition.
How Invega Works in the Brain
While its precise mechanism isn't fully understood, Invega, or paliperidone, is believed to work by modulating neurotransmitter systems. It primarily blocks dopamine (D2) and serotonin (5HT2A) receptors, normalizing chemical flow thought to be imbalanced in psychiatric disorders. This action contributes to its classification as an atypical antipsychotic and a potentially lower risk of certain movement side effects compared to older antipsychotics.
Important Safety Information and Considerations
Invega carries a warning about increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis and is not approved for this use,. Other serious side effects to monitor for include Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), tardive dyskinesia, and metabolic changes like weight gain and elevated blood sugar,.
Comparison of Invega Formulations
| Feature | Invega (Oral Extended-Release Tablets) | Invega Sustenna (Injectable) | Invega Trinza (Injectable) | Invega Hafyera (Injectable) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dosing Frequency | Once daily | Once per month | Once every 3 months | Once every 6 months |
| Administration | Oral, swallow whole | Intramuscular injection by a healthcare provider | Intramuscular injection by a healthcare provider | Intramuscular injection by a healthcare provider |
| Indication | Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder | Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder | Schizophrenia | Schizophrenia |
| Requirement for use | Initial dose titration recommended | Must be stabilized on oral paliperidone or risperidone, or on Sustenna, | Must be stabilized on Sustenna for at least 4 months | Must be stabilized on Trinza for at least one 3-month cycle or Sustenna for at least 4 months |
| Patient Benefit | Daily regimen, easy dose adjustments | Reduced dosing frequency, improved adherence | Less frequent dosing, greater convenience | Longest-lasting option, maximum convenience |
Conclusion
Invega is an effective atypical antipsychotic for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, available in oral and long-acting injectable forms. These options allow for flexible treatment tailored to individual needs, potentially improving adherence. While effective, monitoring for side effects is crucial, especially regarding the contraindication for patients with dementia-related psychosis. The long-acting injections can provide sustained symptom control and simplify medication management.
For more detailed prescribing information, refer to the FDA-approved product labeling for Invega.
Common Side Effects of Invega
Common side effects of Invega include movement issues like restlessness and tremors, metabolic changes such as weight gain and high blood sugar, drowsiness, dizziness, cardiovascular effects like increased heart rate, and hormonal changes including elevated prolactin levels,,,. Injection site reactions can also occur with the long-acting forms.
Important Considerations
Invega has an FDA black box warning against use in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to increased death risk,. Dosage adjustments may be needed for those with kidney impairment. Oral tablets must be swallowed whole. It's vital to inform your doctor about all medications due to potential drug interactions.
