Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Paliperidone belongs to a group of medications known as atypical antipsychotics. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of schizophrenia, a mental illness characterized by abnormal thinking patterns, apathy, and intense or unsuitable emotions. This drug functions by modifying the activity of specific naturally occurring substances in the brain.
Uses and Dosage
To take paliperidone as an extended-release tablet, swallow it whole with water or any other liquid. It can be taken with or without food, typically once a day in the morning. Take it at the same time every day, as directed on the prescription label. It’s important to take paliperidone precisely as prescribed. Avoid taking more or less than what’s prescribed, or taking it more frequently.
If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, inform your doctor who may suggest an alternative medication for treating your condition.
During the treatment, discuss how you’re feeling with your doctor. If the symptoms persist, your doctor may increase your dosage gradually, but not more often than once every five days.
While paliperidone manages the symptoms of schizophrenia, it doesn’t provide a cure. C9ontinue taking the medication even if you feel better, and don’t stop without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness, feeling unsteady, or having trouble keeping your balance
- extreme tiredness
- weakness
- headache
- dry mouth
- increased saliva
- weight gain
- stomach pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- fever
- muscle pain or stiffness
- falling
- confusion
- fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- sweating
- unusual movements of your face or body that you cannot control
- slow or stiff movements
- restlessness
- painful erection of the penis that lasts for hours
Caution
Prior to taking paliperidone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, risperidone, or any other allergens. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, seizures, low white blood cell count, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, movement or blockage disorders of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, certain eye conditions (cataracts, glaucoma), personal or family history of diabetes, high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides, heart disease, or sleep apnea.
Paliperidone can cause a condition that affects the rhythm of the heart, known as QT prolongation. QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (occasionally fatal) fast or irregular heartbeat and other symptoms such as severe dizziness or fainting, which require prompt medical attention.
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may also increase if you use specific medications (such as diuretics) or have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Speak with your doctor about using paliperidone safely.
This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Alcohol or marijuana can increase dizziness or drowsiness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
This medication may decrease sweating, making you more prone to heatstroke. Refrain from activities that may cause you to overheat, such as exercising in hot weather or working hard, or using hot tubs. Drink a lot of fluids and wear lightweight clothing when the weather is hot. If you overheat, seek a cool place to rest immediately. If you experience a fever that does not subside, changes in mental/mood, headache, or dizziness, seek medical assistance right away.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication, specifically drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and QT prolongation. Drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness can increase the risk of falls.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if it is clearly necessary. Newborns of mothers who have taken this drug in the last three months of pregnancy may infrequently develop symptoms such as shakiness or stiffness of the muscles, drowsiness, difficulties with feeding or breathing, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, especially during their first month, contact your doctor immediately.
As untreated mental/mood issues can be severe, do not discontinue taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are considering pregnancy, are pregnant, or believe you may be pregnant, immediately discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Tell the doctor right away if your baby develops symptoms such as muscle stiffness or shakiness, unusual sleepiness, or difficulty feeding. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strength
Invega is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Invega extended-release table:
- 3mg
- 6mg
- 9mg
-
paliperidone extended-release tablet:
- 3mg
- 6mg
FAQ
How long does it take to get used to Invega?
Your sleep and mood should improve within the first week or so. Slowly over 2–8 weeks, your thoughts should get more clear and organized. Increased interest in yourself and things you enjoy is often slower, sometimes taking months.
Can you take Invega long term?
The biggest disadvantages of Invega are the potential long-term side effects, which can include increased blood sugar, increased cholesterol, weight gain, and rarely tardive dyskinesia.
Resources
- https://www.nshealth.ca/sites/nshealth.ca/files/patientinformation/1938.pdf
- https://www.psycom.net/invega-paliperidone
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607005.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-146745/invega-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/paliperidone-oral-route/description/drg-20070811
- https://www.drugs.com/invega.html
