Paliperidone
Uses of Paliperidone
Paliperidone is primarily used to manage schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder in adults. It belongs to the group of atypical antipsychotic medicines.
Side effects of Paliperidone
Tremor
Dizziness
Weight gain
High blood sugar
How Paliperidone works
Paliperidone is categorised as an atypical antipsychotic.
It primarily functions by acting as an antagonist at dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. This means it blocks the activity of these receptors, helping to regulate the brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in mental disorders such as schizophrenia.
Additionally, Paliperidone also antagonises α1 and α2 adrenergic receptors and H1 histaminergic receptors. This simply means it blocks the action of adrenaline and histamine on these receptors. However, it has virtually no effect on cholinergic receptors, which respond to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
By normalising neurotransmission in specific brain pathways, Paliperidone helps reduce symptoms of mental disorders like delusions, hallucinations, and disorganised thinking seen in conditions like schizophrenia.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Paliperidone can be taken orally (extended-release tablets) and intramuscularly (injectable extended-release suspension).
Age and Dose Restrictions
Paliperidone is approved for use in adults and children aged 12-17 years.
Contraindications
Paliperidone is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of death.
Other Medications to Avoid
Paliperidone may interact with centrally acting medications such as alcohol (e.g., benzyl alcohol, dichlorobenzyl alcohol), anxiolytics (e.g., hydroxyzine, buspirone), hypnotics (e.g., diazepam, flurazepam), and opioids (e.g., fentanyl, morphine) and medicines that can cause hypotension like antihypertensives (e.g., atenolol, amlodipine), nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate) and diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide).
Overdose and Missed Dose
In case of an overdose of Paliperidone, immediate medical attention should be sought. Symptoms may include sedation, irregular heartbeat, and movement disorders.
If you miss a dose of oral Paliperidone, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. For injectable Paliperidone, consult your doctor.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and usually disappear after discontinuing Paliperidone. However, if severe side effects occur or existing symptoms worsen, consult your doctor immediately.
Drinking plenty of water could help manage some side effects such as dry mouth or constipation.
Taking the medicine with food can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects, like nausea or indigestion.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Paliperidone may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery due to possible side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. It is advised to avoid such activities if these symptoms occur.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
It should be used only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks. It is advised to talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with renal impairment require dose adjustments when taking Paliperidone. It should be avoided in severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 ml/min).
Individuals with cardiovascular disease should use Paliperidone with caution due to the risk of hypotension or QT prolongation.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Reducing caffeine intake can help manage tachycardia or increased heart rate caused by this medicine.
Avoid alcohol while taking Paliperidone as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Frequently asked questions
Is Paliperidone a steroid?
No, Paliperidone is not a steroid. It is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to manage conditions like schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder in adults.
Does Paliperidone have any effect on sleep?
Yes, somnolence, drowsiness and sedation are common side effects of Paliperidone. This means that it can make you feel sleepy or drowsy, which might affect your sleep pattern.
Will Paliperidone affect fertility?
Paliperidone may cause hyperprolactinemia, a condition characterized by higher than normal levels of prolactin in the body. This can sometimes affect fertility in women by disrupting the normal menstrual cycle. Men may experience sexual dysfunction, which might impact fertility.
Is it safe to take Paliperidone daily?
Yes, it is safe to take Paliperidone daily if prescribed by your doctor. It should not be taken more or less than the recommended dosage and not for longer than prescribed.
How much time does Paliperidone take to work?
Paliperidone starts working soon after you start taking it, but it might take several days or weeks for you to notice the full benefits of the medicine.
What is the best time to take Paliperidone?
The best time to take Paliperidone depends on your doctor's advice. It can be taken with or without food.
What is the duration of treatment with Paliperidone?
The duration of treatment with Paliperidone depends on the individual's condition and response to the medicine. It should be taken for as long as recommended by your doctor.
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