Why are long-acting injectable antipsychotics used in schizophrenia, and give an example?

• A. To improve adherence and reduce relapse risk; examples include haloperidol decanoate, paliperidone palmitate, risperidone long-acting.
• B. To increase EPS risk.
• C. To cure schizophrenia.
• D. To replace all other medications.

Answer: (B)

Long-acting injectable antipsychotics are used to improve adherence and reduce relapse risk. By delivering the drug slowly over weeks, they maintain steady medication levels even if a patient misses daily doses, which helps prevent symptom re-emergence and fewer hospitalizations. This approach is especially helpful for individuals who have trouble sticking to daily oral meds or who have gaps in follow-up care. Examples include haloperidol decanoate, paliperidone palmitate, and risperidone long-acting injectable. They’re not intended to cure schizophrenia or to replace all other treatments, and while they can carry side effects like extrapyramidal symptoms, the main purpose is to enhance maintenance and stability over time.