A once-a-month, subcutaneous formulation of the atypical antipsychotic risperidone (called Perseris®) has now been approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. This long-acting form of risperidone is designed to be delivered with no need for a loading dose or supplementation with oral risperidone. Efficacy and side effects (increased weight, sedation, and musculoskeletal pain are similar to those experienced with oral risperidone. This is the second long-acting injectable formulation of risperidone; CONSTA, the first, has a two-week dosing schedule and a lag time to release, requiring oral supplementation. In contrast, the new monthly formulation has an initial release of drug that results in peak plasma levels after 4 to 6 hours, and oral supplementation is not recommended.
For more information on Perseris®:
Press release
Prescribing information
For more information on long-acting injectable antipsychotics: