Longer Acting Paliperidone

A new presentation of paliperidone is now available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Invega Hafyera^® is a six-monthly injection indicated for the maintenance treatment of adults with schizophrenia. Patients may be eligible for PBS supply once stabilised on the monthly paliperidone injection (Invega Sustenna®) for at least four consecutive months, or the three-monthly injection (Invega Trinza®) for at least one cycle.

A recent study compared the safety and efficacy of six-monthly and three-monthly paliperidone. The efficacy of the six-month formulation was found to be non-inferior to the three-month formulation in clinically stable patients with schizophrenia. In addition, no new safety concerns were identified for the six-monthly formulation.

Long-acting antipsychotic injections are associated with improved adherence and more stable plasma levels. The reduced dosing frequency may also be more convenient for patients. Invega Hafyera® currently offers the longest dosing interval, which may particularly benefit patients with serious adherence issues and those living in isolated areas. Long-acting antipsychotics available on the PBS are shown in the table below.