Invega

Invega is a prescription medicine that is licensed for the treatment of schizophrenia. Part of a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotic medications, Invega works by blocking or lessening the effects of certain chemicals in the brain. Invega tablets, which are typically taken once daily, can also help prevent symptoms of schizophrenia from returning. Side effects of Invega can include drowsiness, headaches, and a rapid heart rate.

 

What Is Invega?

Invega® (paliperidone) is a prescription medication that is used to treat schizophrenia.
 

Who Makes Invega?

Invega is manufactured by Janssen L.P.
 
(Click Invega Uses for more information on what Invega is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Invega Work?

Invega belongs to a group of medications called atypical (or second-generation) antipsychotic medications. It is not entirely known how Invega works for the treatment of schizophrenia. However, it is known that the drug blocks or lessens the effects of several chemicals in the brain. These brain chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) may be elevated in people with schizophrenia.
 
Invega is not a cure for schizophrenia. It only helps to control symptoms (see Symptoms of Schizophrenia).
 

Invega Effects

In previous clinical studies of Invega for the treatment of schizophrenia, people taking Invega experienced improvements in their schizophrenia symptoms (including hallucinations and suspiciousness), compared to those not taking Invega. Longer studies also showed that Invega can help prevent hospitalization due to schizophrenia and can help symptoms from returning.
 
(Invega Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;