Paliperidone extended-release (US brand name Invega® and generic) is a second-generation (“atypical”) antipsychotic.

FDA-approved indications

1. Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents (ages 12-17)

2. Treatment of schizoaffective disorder in adults as monotherapy and as an adjunct to mood stabilizers and/or antidepressants.

Dosage

A. Schizophrenia (adults)

Initial: 6 mg/day
Recommended: 3 – 12 mg/day
Maximum: 12 mg/day

Recommended dose increments: 3 mg/day at intervals of more than 5 days after clinical assessment

Dose increases above 6 mg/day should be made only after clinical reassessment and generally should occur at intervals of more than 5 days

B. Schizophrenia (adolescents < 51 kg)

Initial: 3 mg/day
Recommended: 3 – 6 mg/day
Maximum: 6 mg/day

Recommended dose increments: 3 mg/day at intervals of more than 5 days after clinical assessment

C. Schizophrenia (adolescents ≥ 51 kg)

Initial: 3 mg/day
Recommended: 3 – 12 mg/day
Maximum: 12 mg/day

Recommended dose increments: 3 mg/day at intervals of more than 5 days after clinical assessment

d. Schizoaffective Disorder (adults)

Initial: 6 mg/day
Recommended: 3 – 12 mg/day
Maximum: 12 mg/day

Recommended dose increments: 3 mg/day at intervals of more than 4 days after clinical assessment

Paliperidone should be administered once daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed, divided, or crushed.

Dosage forms and strengths

Tablets: 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 6mg, and 9 mg

Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.