Paliperidone

Generic name: paliperidone (oral) [ PAL-ee-PER-i-DONE ]
Brand name: Invega
Dosage form: oral tablet, extended release (1.5 mg; 3 mg; 6 mg; 9 mg)
Drug class: Atypical antipsychotics

Route of administration: Oral, Intramuscular

Available dose:

• Tablets: 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 6 mg, 9 mg
• Injectable suspension: 39 mg, 78 mg, 117 mg, 156 mg, 234 mg

Mechanism of action: Paliperidone works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain, which helps to regulate mood, thoughts, and behavior.

Drug usage cases: Paliperidone is used for the treatment of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

Drug contraindications: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to paliperidone, risperidone, or any of its components.

Side effects: Common side effects include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, weight gain, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and constipation. Rarely, it may cause severe side effects like tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and significant changes in blood glucose or lipid levels.

Warnings: Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular diseases, a history of seizures, or conditions that may predispose to hypotension. Monitor for signs of metabolic changes, such as weight gain, diabetes, and lipid abnormalities. Avoid abrupt discontinuation of the drug to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Paliperidone is categorized as a pregnancy category C drug. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if paliperidone is excreted in human milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding women.