If you have schizophrenia, your doctor may prescribe Invega. This section of the eMedTV Web site explains how the prescription drug works and discusses its effects, potential side effects, and available strengths.
Common Invega side effects may include nausea, a rapid heart rate, and headaches. This section of the eMedTV library lists other common side effects of Invega, as well as side effects that you should report to your doctor (such as signs of diabetes).
While a little weight gain is normal with Invega, gaining too much weight can cause health problems. This eMedTV article offers more information on Invega and weight gain, and explains what your doctor may recommend to help with any weight gain.
Up to 3 percent of people taking Invega have reported dry mouth as a side effect of the drug. This article on the eMedTV Web site discusses Invega and dry mouth in more detail and offers a list of suggestions for dry mouth relief.
People taking Invega may be at an increased risk of developing diabetes. This part of the eMedTV Web site explores the possible link between Invega and diabetes, noting in particular why Invega may cause this serious condition.
Invega is used to treat adult schizophrenia. But as this part of the eMedTV archives explains, Invega is not approved to treat childhood schizophrenia, and there are currently no universally accepted "off-label" Invega uses.
The recommended starting Invega dose for the treatment of schizophrenia is 6 mg once a day. This page on the eMedTV Web site provides more Invega dosage information, including dosage recommendations for people with kidney disease.
Clozapine and methadone are among the medicines that can potentially cause Invega drug interactions. This eMedTV article lists other drugs that can potentially interact with Invega and discusses the risks of taking these drugs along with Invega.
Invega can increase blood sugar levels in some people, which can increase the risk of developing diabetes. This eMedTV page offers other Invega warnings and precautions, such as the safety of taking Invega while nursing or pregnant.
Invega is not yet available in generic form. As this article from the eMedTV library explains, the earliest that a generic version of Invega could become available is December 2011, when the patent for Invega expires.
Invega could potentially cause problems to the fetus if it is given to pregnant women. This eMedTV article offers more information on Invega and pregnancy, and describes the problems seen in pregnant animals that were given the medication.
It is not known whether using Invega while breastfeeding is safe for the nursing child. This eMedTV page discusses Invega and breastfeeding in more detail and explains the importance of talking with your doctor about your specific situation.
Symptoms of an Invega overdose may include drowsiness, low blood pressure, and shakiness or tremors. This eMedTV segment lists other possible symptoms and discusses the various treatment options that are available for an Invega overdose.
If you abruptly stop taking Invega, withdrawal symptoms can potentially occur. This eMedTV article lists possible symptoms of Invega withdrawal (such as insomnia) and explains the steps your doctor may take to help limit them.
Combining alcohol and Invega may potentially be dangerous. As this eMedTV page explains, drinking alcohol while taking Invega can increase your risk of developing side effects, such as low blood pressure or drowsiness.
Invega alternatives can include other schizophrenia medications and therapy. This eMedTV Web page lists other possible alternatives to Invega for the treatment of schizophrenia and discusses the situations in which they may be considered.
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