Invega Sustenna
paliperidone palmitate · Injection · Intramuscular
Uses
(paliperidone palmitate) is indicated for the treatment of: Schizophrenia in adults [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. Schizoaffective disorder in adults as monotherapy and as an adjunct to mood stabilizers or antidepressants [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]. INVEGA SUSTENNA is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for Treatment of schizophrenia in adults. ( 1 ) Treatment of schizoaffective disorder in adults as monotherapy and as an adjunct to mood stabilizers or antidepressants. ( 1 )
Dosage and administration
For intramuscular injection only. ( 2.1 ) Each injection must be administered only by a healthcare professional. ( 2.1 ) For deltoid injection, use 1-inch 23G needle for patients weighing less than 90 kg or 1½-inch 22G needle for patients weighing 90 kg or more. For gluteal injection, use 1½-inch 22G needle regardless of patient weight. ( 2.1 ) Indication Initiation Dosing (deltoid) Monthly Maintenance Dose Administered 5 weeks after the first injection. (deltoid or gluteal) Maximum Monthly Dose Day 1 Day 8 Schizophrenia ( 2.2 ) 234 mg 156 mg 39–234 mg The recommended maintenance dose for treatment of schizophrenia is 117 mg. Some patients may benefit from lower or higher maintenance doses within the additional available strengths (39 mg, 78 mg, 156 mg, and 234 mg). 234 mg Schizoaffective disorder ( 2.2 ) 234 mg 156 mg 78–234 mg Adjust dose based on tolerability and/or efficacy using available strengths. The 39 mg strength was not studied in the long-term schizoaffective disorder study. 234 mg For patients naïve to oral paliperidone or oral or injectable risperidone, establish tolerability with oral paliperidone or oral risperidone prior to initiating treatment with INVEGA SUSTENNA. ( 2.2 ) Missed Doses: To manage either a missed second initiation dose or a missed monthly maintenance dose, refer to the Full Prescribing Information. ( 2.3 ) Moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min): INVEGA SUSTENNA is not recommended. ( 2.5 ) Mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≥ 50 mL/min to < 80 mL/min): Administer 156 mg on treatment Day 1 and 117 mg on Day 8, both in the deltoid muscle. Follow with the recommended monthly maintenance dose of 78 mg, administered in the deltoid or gluteal muscle. Adjust monthly maintenance dose based on tolerability and/or efficacy within the strengths of 39 mg, 78 mg, 117 mg, or 156 mg. The maximum monthly dose is 156 mg for patients with mild renal impairment. ( 2.5 ) 2.1 Administration Instructions Each injection must be administered only by a healthcare professional. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for foreign matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever product and container permit. INVEGA SUSTENNA is intended for intramuscular use only. Do not administer by any other route. Avoid inadvertent injection into a blood vessel. Administer the dose in a single injection; do not administer the dose in divided injections. Inject slowly, deep into the deltoid or gluteal muscle. INVEGA SUSTENNA must be administered using only the needles that are provided in the INVEGA SUSTENNA kit. The recommended needle size for administration of INVEGA SUSTENNA into the deltoid muscle is determined by the patient's weight: For patients weighing less than 90 kg, the 1-inch, 23 gauge needle is recommended. For patients weighing 90 kg or more, the 1½-inch, 22 gauge needle is recommended. Deltoid injections should be alternated between the two deltoid muscles. The recommended needle size for administration of INVEGA SUSTENNA into the gluteal muscle is the 1½-inch, 22 gauge needle regardless of patient weight. Administer into the upper-outer quadrant of the gluteal muscle. Gluteal injections should be alternated between the two gluteal muscles. 2.2 Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder For patients who have never taken oral paliperidone or oral or injectable risperidone, it is recommended to establish tolerability with oral paliperidone or oral risperidone prior to initiating treatment with INVEGA SUSTENNA. The recommended dosing of INVEGA SUSTENNA for each approved indication is displayed in Table 1. The recommended initiation of INVEGA SUSTENNA is with a dose of 234 mg on treatment day 1 and 156 mg one week later, both administered in the deltoid muscle. Following the second initiation dose, monthly maintenance doses can be administered in either the deltoid or gluteal muscle. Table 1: Recommended Dosing of INVEGA SUSTENNA for Adults with Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder Indication Initiation Dosing (deltoid) Monthly Maintenance Dose Administered 5 weeks after the first injection. (deltoid or gluteal) Maximum Monthly Dose Day 1 Day 8 Schizophrenia 234 mg 156 mg 39–234 mg The recommended maintenance dose for treatment of schizophrenia is 117 mg. Some patients may benefit from lower or higher maintenance doses within the additional available strengths (39 mg, 78 mg, 156 mg, and 234 mg). 234 mg Schizoaffective disorder 234 mg 156 mg 78–234 mg Adjust dose based on tolerability and/or efficacy using available strengths. The 39 mg strength was not studied in the long-term schizoaffective disorder study. 234 mg Adjustment of the maintenance dose may be made monthly. When making dose adjustments, the prolonged-release characteristics of INVEGA SUSTENNA should be considered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , as the full effect of the dose adjustment may not be evident for several months. 2.3 Missed Doses Avoiding Missed Doses It is recommended that the second initiation dose of INVEGA SUSTENNA be given one week after the first dose. To avoid a missed dose, patients may be given the second dose 4 days before or after the one-week time point. Similarly, the third and subsequent injections after the initiation regimen are recommended to be given monthly. To avoid a missed monthly dose, patients may be given the injection up to 7 days before or after the monthly time point. Management of a Missed Second Initiation Dose If the target date for the second INVEGA SUSTENNA injection (one week ± 4 days) is missed, the recommended reinitiation depends on the length of time which has elapsed since the patient's first injection. In case of a missed second initiation dose follow the dosing instructions provided in Table 2.
Dosage forms and strengths
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS INVEGA SUSTENNA is available as a white to off-white aqueous extended-release injectable suspension for intramuscular injection in dose strengths of 39 mg/0.25 mL, 78 mg/0.5 mL, 117 mg/0.75 mL, 156 mg/mL, and 234 mg/1.5 mL paliperidone palmitate in single-dose prefilled syringes. Extended-release injectable suspension: 39 mg/0.25 mL, 78 mg/0.5 mL, 117 mg/0.75 mL, 156 mg/mL, or 234 mg/1.5 mL ( 3 )
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS INVEGA SUSTENNA is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to either paliperidone or risperidone, or to any of the excipients in the INVEGA SUSTENNA formulation. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactic reactions and angioedema, have been reported in patients treated with risperidone and in patients treated with paliperidone. Paliperidone palmitate is converted to paliperidone, which is a metabolite of risperidone. Known hypersensitivity to paliperidone, risperidone, or to any excipients in INVEGA SUSTENNA. ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions, Including Stroke, in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Increased incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (e.g. stroke, transient ischemic attack). ( 5.2 ) Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Manage with immediate discontinuation of drug and close monitoring. ( 5.3 ) QT Prolongation: Avoid use with drugs that also increase QT interval and in patients with risk factors for prolonged QT interval. ( 5.4 ) Tardive Dyskinesia: Discontinue drug if clinically appropriate. ( 5.5 ) Metabolic Changes: Monitor for hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and weight gain. ( 5.6 ) Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope: Monitor heart rate and blood pressure and warn patients with known cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, and risk of dehydration or syncope. ( 5.7 ) Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis: Perform complete blood counts (CBC) in patients with pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC) or history of leukopenia or neutropenia. Consider discontinuing INVEGA SUSTENNA if clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors. ( 5.9 ) Hyperprolactinemia: Prolactin elevations occur and persist during chronic administration. ( 5.10 ) Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Use caution when operating machinery. ( 5.11 ) Seizures: Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold. ( 5.12 ) 5.1 Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks), largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, revealed a risk of death in drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times the risk of death in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group. Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. Observational studies suggest that, similar to atypical antipsychotic drugs, treatment with conventional antipsychotic drugs may increase mortality. The extent to which the findings of increased mortality in observational studies may be attributed to the antipsychotic drug as opposed to some characteristic(s) of the patients is not clear. INVEGA SUSTENNA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . 5.2 Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions, Including Stroke, in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis In placebo-controlled trials with risperidone, aripiprazole, and olanzapine in elderly subjects with dementia, there was a higher incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (cerebrovascular accidents and transient ischemic attacks) including fatalities compared to placebo-treated subjects. No studies have been conducted with oral paliperidone, INVEGA SUSTENNA, or the 3-month paliperidone palmitate extended-release injectable suspension in elderly patients with dementia. These medicines are not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . 5.3 Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal symptom complex, has been reported in association with antipsychotic drugs, including paliperidone. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status including delirium, and autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure. If NMS is suspected, immediately discontinue INVEGA SUSTENNA and provide symptomatic treatment and monitoring. 5.4 QT Prolongation Paliperidone causes a modest increase in the corrected QT (QTc) interval. The use of paliperidone should be avoided in combination with other drugs that are known to prolong QTc including Class 1A (e.g., quinidine, procainamide) or Class III (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic medications, antipsychotic medications (e.g., chlorpromazine, thioridazine), antibiotics (e.g., gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin), or any other class of medications known to prolong the QTc interval. Paliperidone should also be avoided in patients with congenital long QT syndrome and in patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias. Certain circumstances may increase the risk of the occurrence of Torsades de pointes and/or sudden death in association with the use of drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including (1) bradycardia; (2) hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia; (3) concomitant use of other drugs that prolong the QTc interval; and (4) presence of congenital prolongation of the QT interval. The effects of oral paliperidone on the QT interval were evaluated in a double-blind, active-controlled (moxifloxacin 400 mg single dose), multicenter QT study in adults with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, and in three placebo- and active-controlled 6-week, fixed-dose efficacy trials in adults with schizophrenia. In the QT study (n=141), the 8 mg dose of immediate-release oral paliperidone (n=50) showed a mean placebo-subtracted increase from baseline in QTcLD of 12.3 msec (90% CI: 8.9; 15.6) on day 8 at 1.5 hours post-dose. The mean steady-state peak plasma concentration for this 8 mg dose of paliperidone immediate release (C max ss = 113 ng/mL) was more than 2-fold the exposure observed with the maximum recommended 234 mg dose of INVEGA SUSTENNA administered in the deltoid muscle (predicted median C max ss = 50 ng/mL).
Side effects
The following are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Cerebrovascular adverse reactions, including stroke, in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Neuroleptic malignant syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] QT prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Tardive dyskinesia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Metabolic changes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Orthostatic hypotension and syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Falls [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Hyperprolactinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Potential for cognitive and motor impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Dysphagia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] Priapism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] Disruption of body temperature regulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% and occurring at least twice as often as placebo) were injection site reactions, somnolence/sedation, dizziness, akathisia, and extrapyramidal disorder. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-800-526-7736 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Patient Exposure The data described in this section are derived from a clinical trial database consisting of a total of 3817 subjects (approximately 1705 patient-years exposure) with schizophrenia who received at least one dose of INVEGA SUSTENNA in the recommended dose range of 39 mg to 234 mg and a total of 510 subjects with schizophrenia who received placebo. Among the 3817 INVEGA SUSTENNA-treated subjects, 1293 received INVEGA SUSTENNA in four fixed-dose, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (one 9-week and three 13-week studies), 849 received INVEGA SUSTENNA in the maintenance trial (median exposure 229 days during the initial 33-week open-label phase of this study, of whom 205 continued to receive INVEGA SUSTENNA during the double-blind placebo-controlled phase of this study [median exposure 171 days]), and 1675 received INVEGA SUSTENNA in five non-placebo controlled trials (three noninferiority active-comparator trials, one long-term open-label pharmacokinetic and safety study, and an injection site [deltoid-gluteal] cross-over trial). One of the 13-week studies included a 234 mg INVEGA SUSTENNA initiation dose followed by treatment with either 39 mg, 156 mg, or 234 mg every 4 weeks. The safety of INVEGA SUSTENNA was also evaluated in a 15-month, long-term study comparing INVEGA SUSTENNA to selected oral antipsychotic therapies in adult subjects with schizophrenia. A total of 226 subjects received INVEGA SUSTENNA during the 15-month, open-label period of this study; 218 subjects received selected oral antipsychotic therapies. The safety of INVEGA SUSTENNA was similar to that seen in previous double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in adult subjects with schizophrenia. The safety of INVEGA SUSTENNA was also evaluated in a long-term study in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder. A total of 667 subjects received INVEGA SUSTENNA during the initial 25-week open-label period of this study (median exposure 147 days); 164 subjects continued to receive INVEGA SUSTENNA during the 15-month double-blind placebo-controlled period of this study (median exposure 446 days). Adverse reactions that occurred more frequently in the INVEGA SUSTENNA than the placebo group (a 2% difference or more between groups) were weight increased, nasopharyngitis, headache, hyperprolactinemia, and pyrexia. Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions: The most common (at least 5% in any INVEGA SUSTENNA group) and likely drug-related (adverse events for which the drug rate is at least twice the placebo rate) adverse reactions from the double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in subjects with schizophrenia were injection site reactions, somnolence/sedation, dizziness, akathisia, and extrapyramidal disorder . No occurrences of adverse events reached this threshold in the long-term double-blind, placebo-controlled study in subjects with schizoaffective disorder. Discontinuation of Treatment Due to Adverse Events: The percentage of subjects who discontinued due to adverse events in the four fixed-dose, double-blind, placebo-controlled schizophrenia trials were similar for INVEGA SUSTENNA- and placebo-treated subjects. The percentage of subjects who discontinued due to adverse events in the open-label period of the long-term study in subjects with schizoaffective disorder was 7.5%. During the double-blind, placebo-controlled period of that study, the percentages of subjects who discontinued due to adverse events were 5.5% and 1.8% in INVEGA SUSTENNA- and placebo-treated subjects, respectively. Dose-Related Adverse Reactions: Based on the pooled data from the four fixed-dose, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in subjects with schizophrenia, among the adverse reactions that occurred with ≥ 2% incidence in the subjects treated with INVEGA SUSTENNA, only akathisia increased with dose. Hyperprolactinemia also exhibited a dose relationship, but did not occur at ≥ 2% incidence in INVEGA SUSTENNA-treated subjects from the four fixed-dose studies.
Drug interactions
Drugs that may cause orthostatic hypotension: An additive effect may occur when co-administered with INVEGA SUSTENNA. ( 7.1 ) Strong CYP3A4/P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inducers : Avoid using a strong inducer of CYP3A4 and/or P-gp (e.g., carbamazepine, rifampin, St John's Wort) during a dosing interval for INVEGA SUSTENNA. If administering a strong inducer is necessary, consider managing the patient using paliperidone extended-release tablets. ( 2.5 , 7.1 , 12.3 ) 7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with INVEGA SUSTENNA Because paliperidone palmitate is hydrolyzed to paliperidone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , results from studies with oral paliperidone should be taken into consideration when assessing drug-drug interaction potential. Table 13. Clinically Important Drug Interactions with INVEGA SUSTENNA Concomitant Drug Name or Drug Class Clinical Rationale Clinical Recommendation Centrally Acting Drugs and Alcohol Given the primary CNS effects of paliperidone, concomitant use of centrally acting drugs and alcohol may modulate the CNS effects of INVEGA SUSTENNA. INVEGA SUSTENNA should be used with caution in combination with other centrally acting drugs and alcohol [see Adverse Reactions (6.1 , 6.2) ] . Drugs with Potential for Inducing Orthostatic Hypotension Because INVEGA SUSTENNA has the potential for inducing orthostatic hypotension, an additive effect may occur when INVEGA SUSTENNA is administered with other therapeutic agents that have this potential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Monitor orthostatic vital signs in patients who are vulnerable to hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Strong Inducers of CYP3A4 and P-gp (e.g., carbamazepine, rifampin, or St. John's Wort) The concomitant use of paliperidone and strong inducers of CYP3A4 and P-gp may decrease the exposure of paliperidone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Avoid using CYP3A4 and/or P-gp inducers with INVEGA SUSTENNA during the 1-month dosing interval, if possible. If administering a strong inducer is necessary, consider managing the patient using paliperidone extended-release tablets [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] . Levodopa and Other Dopamine Agonists Paliperidone may antagonize the effect of levodopa and other dopamine agonists. Monitor and manage patient as clinically appropriate. 7.2 Drugs Having No Clinically Important Interactions with INVEGA SUSTENNA Clinically meaningful pharmacokinetic interaction between INVEGA SUSTENNA and valproate (including valproic acid and divalproex sodium) is not expected. Based on pharmacokinetic studies with oral paliperidone, no dosage adjustment of INVEGA SUSTENNA is required when administered with valproate [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Additionally, no dosage adjustment is necessary for valproate when co-administered with INVEGA SUSTENNA [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Pharmacokinetic interaction between lithium and INVEGA SUSTENNA is also unlikely. Paliperidone is not expected to cause clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions with drugs that are metabolized by cytochrome P450 isozymes. In vitro studies indicate that CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 may be involved in paliperidone metabolism; however, there is no evidence in vivo that inhibitors of these enzymes significantly affect the metabolism of paliperidone. Paliperidone is not a substrate of CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19; an interaction with inhibitors or inducers of these isozymes is unlikely. [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]
Use in specific populations
Pregnancy: May cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in neonates with third trimester exposure. ( 8.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atypical antipsychotics, including INVEGA SUSTENNA, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by contacting the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or online at http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/ . Risk Summary Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery (see Clinical Considerations ) . Overall, available data from published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to paliperidone have not established a drug-associated risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data ) . There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia and with exposure to antipsychotics, including INVEGA SUSTENNA, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations ). Paliperidone has been detected in plasma in adult subjects up to 126 days after a single-dose administration of INVEGA SUSTENNA [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , and the clinical significance of INVEGA SUSTENNA administered before pregnancy or anytime during pregnancy is not known. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defects, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2–4% and 15–20%, respectively. In animal reproduction studies, there were no treatment related effects on the offspring when pregnant rats were injected intramuscularly with paliperidone palmitate during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 10 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 234 mg paliperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. There were no increases in fetal abnormalities when pregnant rats and rabbits were treated orally with paliperidone during the period of organogenesis with up to 8 times the MRHD of 12 mg of paliperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. Additional reproduction toxicity studies were conducted with orally administered risperidone, which is extensively converted to paliperidone (see Animal data ). Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk There is a risk to the mother from untreated schizophrenia, including increased risk of relapse, hospitalization, and suicide. Schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth. It is not known if this is a direct result of the illness or other comorbid factors. Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates who were exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including INVEGA SUSTENNA, during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Monitor neonates exhibiting extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Data Human Data Published data from observational studies, birth registries, and case reports on the use of atypical antipsychotics during pregnancy do not report a clear association with antipsychotics and major birth defects. A prospective observational study including 6 women treated with risperidone, the parent compound of paliperidone, demonstrated placental passage of risperidone and paliperidone. A retrospective cohort study from a Medicaid database of 9258 women exposed to antipsychotics during pregnancy did not indicate an overall increased risk for major birth defects. There was a small increase in the risk of major birth defects (RR= 1.26, 95% CI 1.02–1.56) and of cardiac malformations (RR=1.26, 95% CI 0.88–1.81) in a subgroup of 1566 women exposed to the parent compound of paliperidone, risperidone, during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, there is no mechanism of action to explain the difference in malformation rates. Animal Data There were no treatment-related effects on the offspring when pregnant rats were injected intramuscularly with paliperidone palmitate extended-release injectable suspension during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 250 mg/kg, which is 10 times MRHD of 234 mg paliperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. In animal reproduction studies, there were no increases in fetal abnormalities when pregnant rats and rabbits were treated orally with paliperidone during the period of organogenesis with up to 8 times the MRHD of 12 mg based on mg/m 2 body surface area. Additional reproduction toxicity studies were conducted with orally administered risperidone, which is extensively converted to paliperidone. Cleft palate was observed in the offspring of pregnant mice treated with risperidone at 3 to 4 times the MRHD of 16 mg based on mg/m 2 body surface area; maternal toxicity occurred at 4 times the MHRD. There was no evidence of teratogenicity in embryo-fetal developmental toxicity studies with risperidone in rats and rabbits at doses up to 6 times the MRHD of 16 mg/day risperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. When the offspring of pregnant rats, treated with risperidone at 0.6 times the MRHD based on mg/m 2 body surface area, reached adulthood, learning was impaired.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atypical antipsychotics, including INVEGA SUSTENNA, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by contacting the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics at 1-866-961-2388 or online at http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/ . Risk Summary Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery (see Clinical Considerations ) . Overall, available data from published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to paliperidone have not established a drug-associated risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data ) . There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia and with exposure to antipsychotics, including INVEGA SUSTENNA, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations ). Paliperidone has been detected in plasma in adult subjects up to 126 days after a single-dose administration of INVEGA SUSTENNA [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , and the clinical significance of INVEGA SUSTENNA administered before pregnancy or anytime during pregnancy is not known. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defects, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2–4% and 15–20%, respectively. In animal reproduction studies, there were no treatment related effects on the offspring when pregnant rats were injected intramuscularly with paliperidone palmitate during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 10 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 234 mg paliperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. There were no increases in fetal abnormalities when pregnant rats and rabbits were treated orally with paliperidone during the period of organogenesis with up to 8 times the MRHD of 12 mg of paliperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. Additional reproduction toxicity studies were conducted with orally administered risperidone, which is extensively converted to paliperidone (see Animal data ). Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk There is a risk to the mother from untreated schizophrenia, including increased risk of relapse, hospitalization, and suicide. Schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth. It is not known if this is a direct result of the illness or other comorbid factors. Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates who were exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including INVEGA SUSTENNA, during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Monitor neonates exhibiting extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization. Data Human Data Published data from observational studies, birth registries, and case reports on the use of atypical antipsychotics during pregnancy do not report a clear association with antipsychotics and major birth defects. A prospective observational study including 6 women treated with risperidone, the parent compound of paliperidone, demonstrated placental passage of risperidone and paliperidone. A retrospective cohort study from a Medicaid database of 9258 women exposed to antipsychotics during pregnancy did not indicate an overall increased risk for major birth defects. There was a small increase in the risk of major birth defects (RR= 1.26, 95% CI 1.02–1.56) and of cardiac malformations (RR=1.26, 95% CI 0.88–1.81) in a subgroup of 1566 women exposed to the parent compound of paliperidone, risperidone, during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, there is no mechanism of action to explain the difference in malformation rates. Animal Data There were no treatment-related effects on the offspring when pregnant rats were injected intramuscularly with paliperidone palmitate extended-release injectable suspension during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 250 mg/kg, which is 10 times MRHD of 234 mg paliperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. In animal reproduction studies, there were no increases in fetal abnormalities when pregnant rats and rabbits were treated orally with paliperidone during the period of organogenesis with up to 8 times the MRHD of 12 mg based on mg/m 2 body surface area. Additional reproduction toxicity studies were conducted with orally administered risperidone, which is extensively converted to paliperidone. Cleft palate was observed in the offspring of pregnant mice treated with risperidone at 3 to 4 times the MRHD of 16 mg based on mg/m 2 body surface area; maternal toxicity occurred at 4 times the MHRD. There was no evidence of teratogenicity in embryo-fetal developmental toxicity studies with risperidone in rats and rabbits at doses up to 6 times the MRHD of 16 mg/day risperidone based on mg/m 2 body surface area. When the offspring of pregnant rats, treated with risperidone at 0.6 times the MRHD based on mg/m 2 body surface area, reached adulthood, learning was impaired. Increased neuronal cell death occurred in the fetal brains of the offspring of pregnant rats treated at 0.5 to 1.2 times the MRHD; the postnatal development and growth of the offspring was delayed.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of INVEGA SUSTENNA in patients < 18 years of age have not been established. Juvenile Animal Studies In a study in which juvenile rats were treated with oral paliperidone from days 24 to 73 of age, a reversible impairment of performance in a test of learning and memory was seen, in females only, with a no-effect dose of 0.63 mg/kg/day, which produced plasma levels (AUC) of paliperidone similar to those in adolescents dosed at 12 mg/day. No other consistent effects on neurobehavioral or reproductive development were seen up to the highest dose tested (2.5 mg/kg/day), which produced plasma levels of paliperidone 2–3 times those in adolescents. Juvenile dogs were treated for 40 weeks with oral risperidone, which is extensively metabolized to paliperidone in animals and humans, at doses of 0.31, 1.25, or 5 mg/kg/day. Decreased bone length and density were seen with a no-effect dose of 0.31 mg/kg/day, which produced plasma levels (AUC) of risperidone plus paliperidone which were similar to those in children and adolescents receiving the MRHD of risperidone. In addition, a delay in sexual maturation was seen at all doses in both males and females. The above effects showed little or no reversibility in females after a 12-week drug-free recovery period. The long-term effects of INVEGA SUSTENNA on growth and sexual maturation have not been fully evaluated in children and adolescents.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of INVEGA SUSTENNA did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and clearance is decreased in patients with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , who should be given reduced doses. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, adjust dose based on renal function [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ].
Overdosage
10.1 Human Experience No cases of overdose were reported in premarketing studies with INVEGA SUSTENNA. Because INVEGA SUSTENNA is to be administered by healthcare professionals, the potential for overdosage by patients is low. While experience with paliperidone overdose is limited, among the few cases of overdose reported in premarketing trials with oral paliperidone, the highest estimated ingestion was 405 mg. Observed signs and symptoms included extrapyramidal symptoms and gait unsteadiness. Other potential signs and symptoms include those resulting from an exaggeration of paliperidone's known pharmacological effects, i.e., drowsiness and sedation, tachycardia and hypotension, and QT prolongation. Torsades de pointes and ventricular fibrillation have been reported in a patient in the setting of overdose with oral paliperidone. Paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone. Overdose experience reported with risperidone can be found in the OVERDOSAGE section of the risperidone package insert. 10.2 Management of Overdosage Contact a Certified Poison Control Center for the most up to date information on the management of INVEGA SUSTENNA overdosage (1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org). Provide supportive care, including close medical supervision and monitoring. Treatment should consist of general measures employed in the management of overdosage with any drug. Consider the possibility of multiple drug overdosage. Ensure an adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation. Monitor cardiac rhythm and vital signs. Use supportive and symptomatic measures. There is no specific antidote to paliperidone. Consider the prolonged-release characteristics of INVEGA SUSTENNA and the long apparent half-life of paliperidone when assessing treatment needs and recovery.
Description
11 DESCRIPTION INVEGA SUSTENNA ® contains paliperidone palmitate. The active ingredient, paliperidone, is an atypical antipsychotic belonging to the chemical class of benzisoxazole derivatives. INVEGA SUSTENNA contains a racemic mixture of (+)- and (-)- paliperidone palmitate. The chemical name is (9 RS )-3-[2-[4-(6-Fluoro-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl)piperidin-1-yl]ethyl]-2-methyl-4-oxo-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-4 H -pyrido[1,2- a ]pyrimadin-9-yl hexadecanoate. Its molecular formula is C 39 H 57 FN 4 O 4 and its molecular weight is 664.89. The structural formula is: Paliperidone palmitate is very slightly soluble in ethanol and methanol, practically insoluble in polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol, and slightly soluble in ethyl acetate. INVEGA SUSTENNA is available as a white to off-white sterile aqueous extended-release suspension for intramuscular injection in the following dose strengths of paliperidone palmitate (and deliverable volumes) of the single-dose prefilled syringes: 39 mg (0.25 mL), 78 mg (0.5 mL), 117 mg (0.75 mL), 156 mg (1.0 mL), and 234 mg (1.5 mL). The drug product hydrolyzes to the active moiety, paliperidone, resulting in dose strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, and 150 mg of paliperidone, respectively. The inactive ingredients are polysorbate 20 (12 mg/mL), polyethylene glycol 4000 (30 mg/mL), citric acid monohydrate (5 mg/mL), disodium hydrogen phosphate anhydrous (5 mg/mL), sodium dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate (2.5 mg/mL), sodium hydroxide (2.84 mg/mL used as an alkalizing agent to set pH at 7), and water for injection. INVEGA SUSTENNA is provided in a single-dose prefilled syringe (cyclic-olefin-copolymer) with a plunger stopper and tip cap (bromobutyl rubber). The kit also contains 2 safety needles (a 1 ½-inch 22 gauge safety needle and a 1-inch 23 gauge safety needle). Chemical Structure
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action Paliperidone palmitate is hydrolyzed to paliperidone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone. The mechanism of action of paliperidone is unclear. However, the drug's therapeutic effect in schizophrenia could be mediated through a combination of central dopamine Type 2 (D 2 ) and serotonin Type 2 (5HT 2A ) receptor antagonism.
How supplied
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING INVEGA SUSTENNA ® is available as a white to off-white sterile aqueous extended-release suspension for intramuscular injection in dose strengths of 39 mg/0.25 mL, 78 mg/0.5 mL, 117 mg/0.75 mL, 156 mg/mL, and 234 mg/1.5 mL paliperidone palmitate in single-dose prefilled syringes. The single-use kit contains a prefilled syringe and 2 safety needles (a 1 ½-inch 22 gauge safety needle and a 1-inch 23 gauge safety needle). 39 mg paliperidone palmitate kit (NDC 50458-560-01) 78 mg paliperidone palmitate kit (NDC 50458-561-01) 117 mg paliperidone palmitate kit (NDC 50458-562-01) 156 mg paliperidone palmitate kit (NDC 50458-563-01) 234 mg paliperidone palmitate kit (NDC 50458-564-01) Storage and Handling Store at room temperature (25 °C, 77 °F); excursions between 15 °C and 30 °C (between 59 °F and 86 °F) are permitted. Do not mix with any other product or diluent.
Storage
Storage and Handling Store at room temperature (25 °C, 77 °F); excursions between 15 °C and 30 °C (between 59 °F and 86 °F) are permitted. Do not mix with any other product or diluent.
Patient information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information). Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) Counsel patients about a potentially fatal adverse reaction, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), that has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs. Advise patients, family members, or caregivers to contact their healthcare provider or report to the emergency room if they experience signs and symptoms of NMS, including hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status including delirium, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. Tardive Dyskinesia Counsel patients on the signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia and to contact their healthcare provider if these abnormal movements occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. Metabolic Changes Educate patients about the risk of metabolic changes, how to recognize symptoms of hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, and the need for specific monitoring, including blood glucose, lipids, and weight [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]. Orthostatic Hypotension Educate patients about the risk of orthostatic hypotension and syncope, particularly at the time of initiating treatment, re-initiating treatment, or increasing the dose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Leukopenia/Neutropenia Advise patients with a pre-existing low WBC or a history of drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia that they should have their CBC monitored while taking INVEGA SUSTENNA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] . Hyperprolactinemia Counsel patients on signs and symptoms of hyperprolactinemia that may be associated with chronic use of INVEGA SUSTENNA. Advise them to seek medical attention if they experience any of the following: amenorrhea or galactorrhea in females, erectile dysfunction or gynecomastia in males [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance Caution patients about performing activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating hazardous machinery or operating a motor vehicle, until they are reasonably certain that INVEGA SUSTENNA therapy does not affect them adversely [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] . Priapism Advise patients of the possibility of painful or prolonged penile erections (priapism). Instruct the patient to seek immediate medical attention in the event of priapism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] . Heat Exposure and Dehydration Counsel patients regarding appropriate care in avoiding overheating and dehydration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] . Concomitant Medication Advise patients to inform their healthcare providers if they are taking, or plan to take any prescription or over-the-counter medications because there is a potential for clinically significant interactions [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Alcohol Advise patients to avoid alcohol during treatment with INVEGA SUSTENNA [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with INVEGA SUSTENNA. Advise patients that INVEGA SUSTENNA may cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in a neonate. Advise patients that there is a pregnancy registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to INVEGA SUSTENNA during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Lactation Advise breastfeeding women using INVEGA SUSTENNA to monitor infants for somnolence, failure to thrive, jitteriness, and extrapyramidal symptoms (tremors and abnormal muscle movements) and to seek medical care if they notice these signs [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ] . Infertility Advise females of reproductive potential that INVEGA SUSTENNA may impair fertility due to an increase in serum prolactin levels. The effects on fertility are reversible [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ].
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (revised Feb 14, 2025). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Paliperidone Palmitate in 5 products
Invega Sustenna NDC products (5)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50458-560 | Paliperidone Palmitate 39 mg/.25mL Injection | Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | NDA |
| 50458-561 | Paliperidone Palmitate 78 mg/.5mL Injection | Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | NDA |
| 50458-562 | Paliperidone Palmitate 117 mg/.75mL Injection | Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | NDA |
| 50458-563 | Paliperidone Palmitate 156 mg/mL Injection | Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | NDA |
| 50458-564 | Paliperidone Palmitate 234 mg/1.5mL Injection | Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | NDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Invega Sustenna used for?
(paliperidone palmitate) is indicated for the treatment of: Schizophrenia in adults [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. Schizoaffective disorder in adults as monotherapy and as an adjunct to mood stabilizers or antidepressants [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]. INVEGA SUSTENNA is an atypical antipsychotic indicated for Treatment of schizophrenia in adults. ( 1 ) Treatment of schizoaffective disorder in…
What are the side effects of Invega Sustenna?
The following are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Cerebrovascular adverse reactions, including stroke, in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Neuroleptic malignant syndrome [see Warnings and… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Invega Sustenna?
Invega Sustenna is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc..