Invega® (
paliperidone) is a second-generation
antipsychotic medication that is used for treating
schizophrenia in adults. It has been shown to be very effective at reducing symptoms of the condition. Invega is also approved to treat schizoaffective disorder. Before you begin treatment, you should talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks of Invega. Although most people tolerate this medication well, it is still important to be aware of the possible side effects or complications that may occur during the treatment process.
Invega can cause several life-threatening conditions, including QT prolongation (a dangerous irregular heart rhythm) and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (characterized by a high fever, stiff muscles, and an irregular pulse). The medicine can also increase the risk of
stroke in elderly people who are taking it for
dementia; although Invega is not approved to treat dementia, it is sometimes prescribed "
off-label" for treating behavior problems in elderly people with dementia.
There are also a number of common side effects that have been reported with Invega. These are often minor and either do not require treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Some of these common side effects include drowsiness,
headache, fatigue, and nausea.
(Click Invega Side Effects and Invega Warnings and Precautions for more information about potential risks, to learn about other side effects associated with this drug, and to find out what you should discuss with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.)
