Invega Sustenna

Invega Sustenna is a type of injection given once a month to treat schizophrenia. It works by blocking the action of certain brain chemicals that are believed to be elevated in people with schizophrenia. It is a long-acting medicine, which allows for once-a-month dosing. Although most people tolerate this prescription drug well, side effects are possible and may include dizziness, headaches, and drowsiness.

Invega Sustenna Medication Information

What Is Invega Sustenna?

Invega^® Sustenna^® (paliperidone palmitate) is a long-acting prescription medication approved to treat schizophrenia. It is used in people who have previously taken, and are known to tolerate, an oral form of paliperidone (Invega^®) or a similar medicine called risperidone (Risperdal^®).

(Click Invega Sustenna Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes This Medication?

Invega Sustenna is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceutica N.V. for Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

How Does Invega Sustenna Work?

Invega Sustenna belongs to a group of medicines known as

atypical antipsychotics (also called second-generation antipsychotics). It is thought to work by blocking the action of dopamine, a neurotransmitter (chemical) in the brain that is believed to be elevated in people with schizophrenia. Like other atypical antipsychotics, Invega Sustenna also blocks a type of serotonin (another chemical found in the brain) receptor, which is believed to help control some of the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Invega Sustenna is given as an injection into a muscle. After each dose, the medication is removed from the body slowly, allowing for once-a-month dosing.

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