Invega Alternatives

In certain situations, alternatives to Invega may be considered for the treatment of schizophrenia. Invega alternatives can include therapy and other medications. Therapy can help people with schizophrenia to deal with problems related to communication, motivation, self-care, and work. Among the drugs that can be used instead of Invega to treat schizophrenia are other atypical antipsychotics and older typical antipsychotics.

 

An Overview of Invega Alternatives

Invega® (paliperidone) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat schizophrenia.
 
Invega belongs to a group of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics or second-generation antipsychotics. For most people, Invega is effective at treating symptoms of these conditions (see Symptoms of Schizophrenia). Most people also tolerate the medication well. However, as with all medicines, it is possible that side effects will occur during treatment with Invega. Also, in some situations, the medicine may not adequately control a person's symptoms. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to Invega for schizophrenia treatment, including:
 
  • Therapy
  • Other medications.
     

Therapy as an Invega Alternative

It is unlikely that therapy alone can replace the need for medication in people who have schizophrenia. However, therapy can be an important part of a well-rounded treatment plan. Numerous studies have found that psychosocial treatments as part of an overall schizophrenia treatment plan can be very helpful. This therapy helps patients who are already stabilized on antipsychotic medication deal with certain aspects of schizophrenia, such as difficulty with:
 
  • Communication
  • Motivation
  • Self-care
  • Work
  • Establishing and maintaining relationships with others.
     
(For more information, see Psychosocial Therapy for Schizophrenics.)
 
(Invega Alternatives Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;