Invega

Invega is a drug that is licensed for the treatment of schizophrenia. Part of a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotic medications, it 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 can include drowsiness, headaches, and a rapid heart rate.

Invega Drug Information

What Is Invega?

Invega^® (paliperidone) is a prescription medication that is used to treat schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

Who Makes Invega?

The drug is manufactured by ALZA Corporation or Janssen-Cilag Manufacturing, LLC. It is marketed and distributed by Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

(Click Invega Uses for more information on what it is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

How Does It Work?

Invega belongs to a group of medications called atypical (or second-generation) antipsychotic medications. It is not entirely known how it 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 or schizoaffective disorder. It only helps to control symptoms (see Symptoms of Schizophrenia).

Effectiveness

In previous clinical studies of Invega for the treatment of schizophrenia, people taking it experienced improvements in their schizophrenia symptoms (including hallucinations and suspiciousness), compared to those not taking it.

Longer studies also showed that Invega can help prevent hospitalization due to schizophrenia and can help symptoms from returning.

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