Drug
Paliperidone
Pronounced
"PAL-ee-PER-i-done"
Uses
This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder). Paliperidone belongs to a class of drugs known as atypical antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.
Warning
There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as stroke, heart failure, fast/irregular heartbeat, pneumonia) when this medication is used by older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, as well as other effective and possibly safer treatments for dementia-related behavior problems, with the doctor.
If you are using paliperidone in combination with other medication to treat depression, also carefully read the drug information for the other medication.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used in combination with other medication for depression.
How to Use This Medication
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Swallow the tablets whole with liquid. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.