Invega

Generic name: Paliperidone

What is Invega?

Invega is used to treat schizophrenia and is known as an "atypical antipsychotic" medicine.

What is the most important information I should know about Invega?

Elderly patients with dementia (such as that seen in Alzheimer's disease) who are treated with atypical antipsychotics have a higher chance for death; Invega is not approved to treat dementia.

In rare cases, Invega may cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a life-threatening nervous system condition that causes a high fever, stiff muscles, sweating, a fast or irregular heart beat, change in blood pressure, and confusion. NMS can also affect your kidneys. 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.

Antipsychotic therapy has induced hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and diabetes that has progressed to coma or death in extreme cases. Patients with diabetes or those at risk for diabetes should have their blood sugar monitored often.

Overheating and dehydration may occur due to Invega therapy. Take precautions when exercising or doing activities in the heat and stay 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 during Invega therapy, especially when you first start taking Invega or when the dose is increased. Get up slowly after sitting or lying down.

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, "short gut syndrome," peritonitis, cystic fibrosis, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, or Meckel's diverticulum).

Invega tablets should only be used in patients who are able to swallow the tablet whole.

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 or elevated blood sugar, liver disease, and if you regularly drink alcohol. Tell your doctor if you have or have had problems with your esophagus, stomach or small or large intestine. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, trying 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.

Adults: The usual dose is 6 milligrams (mg) daily. Some patients may benefit from either higher doses up to 12 mg/day or a lower dose of 3 mg/day. If needed, the dose can be increased in increments of 3 mg/day at intervals of at least 5 days.

The maximum recommended daily dose is 12 mg/day.

Adults with moderate to severe kidney disease: The maximum recommended dose is 3 mg once daily.

How should I take Invega?

Take Invega once a day in the morning. Swallow Invega tablets whole with water or another liquid. Do not chew, divide, or crush Invega tablets. Invega can be taken with or without food.

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.

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 and other central nervous system drugs, amiodarone, chlorpromazine, gatifloxacin, levodopa and other dopamine agonists, 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: abdominal pain, anxiety, back pain, visual disturbances, cough, disturbed digestion, excessive salivary secretions, fainting, fast heart beat, fatigue, pain in the extremities, headache, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and diabetes, impaired judgment or thinking, involuntary movements, dizziness upon standing, muscle stiffness, nausea, overheating and dehydration, restlessness, seizures, drowsiness, suicidal thoughts, trouble swallowing, upset stomach, weakness

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. Taking Invega while breastfeeding is not recommended.

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 together.

How should I store Invega?

Store at room temperature away from moisture.