Invega Sustenna Side Effects: A Complete Patient Guide

Introduction

Invega Sustenna is a long-acting injectable medication prescribed for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Its active ingredient, paliperidone palmitate, helps regulate brain chemicals that influence mood, behaviour, and thinking. Unlike daily oral antipsychotics, Invega Sustenna is administered monthly, making it more convenient and improving treatment adherence.

While effective, patients must understand the possible Invega Sustenna side effects. These can range from mild and manageable to severe and long-term. This article covers the most important side effects, risk factors, management strategies, and answers to common questions about the drug.

What is Invega Sustenna?

Invega Sustenna is an atypical antipsychotic designed to deliver consistent levels of medication over a month. Doctors often recommend it for patients who have difficulty maintaining daily pill regimens.

Its primary benefits include:

• Reducing the risk of relapse
  
• Offering stable symptom control
  
• Improving adherence for long-term therapy
  

Even with these advantages, patients should be prepared for possible side effects that accompany treatment.

Common Invega Sustenna Side Effects

Many side effects occur within the first weeks of treatment but may improve as the body adjusts.

Fatigue and Drowsiness

Feeling unusually tired or sleepy is common. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they understand how the medication affects them.

Weight Gain

One of the most reported Invega Sustenna side effects is weight gain. It often results from an increase in appetite. A balanced diet and regular physical activity can help manage weight.

Dizziness and Lightheadedness

Sudden drops in blood pressure may cause dizziness. Standing slowly and staying hydrated can reduce this risk.

Digestive Issues

Some patients experience nausea, constipation, or stomach discomfort. Eating fiber-rich foods and drinking enough water can help ease these problems.

Headaches

Headaches are relatively common. Simple remedies like rest, hydration, and mild pain relievers may help, but persistent headaches should be reported to a doctor.

Sleep Disturbances

Invega Sustenna may either cause insomnia or excessive sleepiness. Good sleep hygiene and lifestyle adjustments can support better rest.

Moderate Invega Sustenna Side Effects

Some side effects may be more concerning and require close monitoring.

Movement-Related Symptoms

Patients may develop extrapyramidal symptoms, such as stiffness, tremors, or restlessness. Doctors can prescribe additional medications to manage these symptoms if needed.

Hormonal Changes

The drug may raise prolactin levels, which can lead to breast enlargement, irregular menstrual cycles, or sexual side effects.

Metabolic Effects

Invega Sustenna can influence blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. This is especially concerning for patients with diabetes or those at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Low Blood Pressure

A drop in blood pressure may cause fainting, particularly during the early stages of treatment. Monitoring is important during dosage adjustments.

Injection Site Reactions

Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site is common but usually temporary. Applying a cold pack can reduce discomfort.

Serious Invega Sustenna Side Effects

In rare cases, patients may experience life-threatening side effects that require immediate medical attention.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)

NMS is a dangerous reaction characterised by high fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and irregular heartbeat. Emergency care is required if symptoms appear.

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD)

TD involves uncontrollable movements of the face or limbs. This condition may become permanent if not addressed early.

Heart-Related Issues

Invega Sustenna may increase the risk of irregular heart rhythms or stroke, especially in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.

Severe Allergic Reactions

Symptoms include swelling of the throat, lips, or tongue, along with difficulty breathing. This requires urgent medical attention.

Long-Term Invega Sustenna Side Effects

Extended use of this medication may contribute to:

• Ongoing weight gain
  
• Higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular problems
  
• Persistent hormonal imbalances
  
• Gradual development of tardive dyskinesia
  

For patients on long-term therapy, regular checkups and blood tests are essential.

Who is at Higher Risk of Side Effects?

Not everyone experiences side effects in the same way. Risk factors include:

• Older age
  
• Pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease
  
• Family history of movement disorders
  
• Use of other medications that may interact with Invega Sustenna
  

Managing Invega Sustenna Side Effects

Medical Follow-Ups

Doctors may order regular blood work, heart monitoring, and physical exams to track patient health.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy sleep schedule can reduce the severity of certain side effects.

Medication Adjustments

If side effects become difficult to manage, doctors may adjust the dosage or recommend supportive therapies.

Precautions Before Starting Invega Sustenna

Patients should share their medical history with their doctor before beginning treatment, including:

• Any past or current heart conditions
  
• Kidney or liver problems
  
• Seizure disorders
  
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding status
  
• Allergies to risperidone, paliperidone, or related drugs
  

When to Seek Emergency Medical Help

Immediate medical attention is required if patients experience:

• Severe chest pain or irregular heartbeat
  
• High fever with muscle stiffness
  
• Difficulty breathing or throat swelling
  
• Involuntary, repetitive movements that do not stop
  

Comparing Invega Sustenna with Other Antipsychotics

Invega Sustenna works similarly to other atypical antipsychotics, but its long-acting injectable form ensures steady medication delivery. This can improve adherence compared to daily pills. While side effects are similar to risperidone or olanzapine, the injection format makes it unique in treatment plans.

FAQs About Invega Sustenna Side Effects

1. What are the most common side effects?
   The most common include fatigue, dizziness, weight gain, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances.
2. Can side effects be permanent?
   Yes, tardive dyskinesia is a potentially permanent condition that must be identified early.
3. Does Invega Sustenna affect hormones?
   Yes, it can increase prolactin levels, leading to changes in sexual function, breast health, or menstrual cycles.
4. Is weight gain guaranteed?
   Not all patients gain weight, but many do. A healthy diet and exercise can help limit this effect.
5. Can side effects improve over time?
   Some side effects improve as the body adjusts, but serious ones require medical attention.
6. How often should patients be monitored?
   Doctors usually recommend checkups every few months, along with blood work and physical exams.
7. Who should not take Invega Sustenna?
   Patients with severe heart problems, uncontrolled diabetes, or allergies to similar drugs should use caution.

Conclusion

Invega Sustenna is an effective treatment for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, but patients must be aware of potential risks. Invega Sustenna side effects range from mild issues like headaches and dizziness to serious conditions such as tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Through regular monitoring, open communication with healthcare providers, and lifestyle adjustments, many side effects can be managed successfully. By understanding both benefits and risks, patients and carers can make informed decisions and improve long-term mental health outcomes.

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