Traditionally, one of the most challenging aspects of treating schizophrenia is medication adherence. Patients who neglect to take their medicine have an elevated risk of relapse, hospitalization and suicide. “There’s a higher likelihood of an exacerbation of the illness occurring,” said Dr. Gustavo Alva, medical director at ATP Clinical Research (Costa Mesa, California). The problem…
Janssen wins FDA approval of twice-yearly schizophrenia treatment
Janssen (NYSE:JNJ) has won FDA approval for the long-acting atypical antipsychotic Invega Hafyera (paliperidone palmitate), which will be the first six-month injectable on the U.S. market. Titusville, New Jersey–based Janssen announced that patients who intend to obtain Invega Hafyera must receive Invega Sustenna (one-month paliperidone palmitate) four at least four months beforehand. Alternatively, they can…