Invega
Generic Name: Paliperidone
What is Invega?
Invega is used to treat schizophrenia.What is the most important information I should know about Invega?
In rare cases, Invega may cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a life-threatening brain disorder that causes a high fever, stiff muscles, sweating, a fast or irregular heart beat, change in blood pressure, and confusion. NMS is a medical emergency. Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.Invega may also cause tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder characterized by slow or jerky facial or body movements. Call your doctor right away if you experience uncontrollable muscle movements.
Patients with diabetes or those at risk for diabetes should have their blood sugar monitored often when taking Invega.
Overheating and dehydration may occur due to Invega therapy. Take precautions when exercising or doing activities in the heat and stay well hydrated.
Take care when driving or using machinery until you know how Invega affects you as you may experience impaired judgment, thinking, and motor skills.
Dizziness and fainting caused by a drop in blood pressure may occur, especially when you first start taking Invega or when the dose is increased. Get up slowly after sitting or lying down.
Call your doctor right away if you have any signs of a fever or infection, enlarged breasts, missed menstrual period, decreased sexual ability, or nipple discharge.
Who should not take Invega?
You should not take Invega if you are allergic to paliperidone, risperidone, or to any of the ingredients in Invega.You should not take Invega if you have pre-existing severe gastrointestinal narrowing (trouble swallowing, inflammation of the small bowel, peritonitis, or cystic fibrosis).
Invega should not be used in elderly patients who have dementia (an illness involving loss of memory, judgment, and confusion) due to an increased risk of death.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Invega?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Invega. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially past or current heart problems, seizures, diabetes (elevated blood sugar), liver disease, alcohol use, and if you have any kidney problems. Tell your doctor if you have or have had problems with your esophagus, stomach, small/large intestine, or if you have any difficulties swallowing whole tablets. Notify your doctor of any pre-existing conditions or drugs that have caused you to have a low white blood cell count. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Schizophrenia
Adults: The usual dose is 6 milligrams (mg) once daily. Some patients may benefit from either higher doses of up to 12 mg/day or a lower dose of 3 mg/day. Your doctor will adjust your dose as needed. Patients with kidney disease will also require dose adjustments.
How should I take Invega?
Take Invega once a day in the morning. Swallow Invega tablets whole with plenty of water or another liquid. Do not chew, divide, or crush Invega tablets. Invega can be taken with or without food.It may be normal to see an undissolved tablet in your stool.
What should I avoid while taking Invega?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Invega. Be careful not to overexert yourself; be cautious of excessive sweating and keep yourself fully hydrated. When sitting or lying down, stand up slowly to avoid any feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery until you know how this medication affects you.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Invega?
If Invega is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Invega with the following: alcohol, amiodarone, chlorpromazine, gatifloxacin, levodopa, moxifloxacin, procainamide, quinidine, sotalol, and thioridazine.What are the possible side effects of Invega?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: stroke, seizures, involuntary movements, diabetes, low white blood cell count, dizziness upon standing, suicidal thoughts, impaired judgment, infections, upset stomach, overheating and dehydration
Can I receive Invega if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Invega during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Invega?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose (less than 12 hours away), skip that dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Invega?
Store at room temperature.
