Second-generation antipsychotic long-acting injections: systematic review.
BACKGROUND
Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) represent an advance in the long-term management of schizophrenia.


OBJECTIVE
To review the available evidence concerning SGA long-acting injections (LAIs).


METHODS
A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed.


RESULTS
Risperidone long-acting injection was the first licensed SGA-LAI compound and is effective in the long-term management of schizophrenia, with a safety profile similar to that of oral risperidone. Olanzapine pamoate has recently been approved in Europe. In terms of efficacy, at injection intervals of up to 4 weeks it appears comparable to oral olanzapine, although the potential for ;post-injection syndrome' (delirium) calls for additional safety considerations. Paliperidone palmitate is currently under review with the licensing authorities. It also affords the potential advantage of monthly dosing.


CONCLUSIONS
More long-term comparisons of SGA-LAIs with oral SGAs as well as with first-generation antipsychotic LAIs are needed. These studies should include cost-effectiveness data.
Fleischhacker
W Wolfgang
WW
Medical University Innsbruck, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Anichstrasse 35, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria. wolfgang.fleischhacker@i-med.ac.at
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations