See the DrugPatentWatch profile for perseris
What Are Perseris and Risperdal Consta?
Perseris and Risperdal Consta are both long-acting injectable antipsychotics containing risperidone, used to treat schizophrenia in adults. Perseris is a subcutaneous injection approved in 2018, while Risperdal Consta, approved in 2003, is an intramuscular injection.[1][2]
How Do They Differ in Formulation and Delivery?
Perseris uses the ATRIGEL drug delivery system with risperidone dissolved in a polymer that forms a depot after subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. It releases the drug over one month. Risperdal Consta is risperidone microspheres suspended in a vehicle for intramuscular injection into the arm or buttock, also monthly but requiring refrigeration and reconstitution before use. Perseris needs no reconstitution and stores at room temperature.[1][3]
Dosing Schedules Compared
Both provide monthly maintenance dosing after oral risperidone titration, but starting doses vary:
- Perseris: 90 mg or 120 mg subcutaneously on day 1 (with oral supplementation for 21 days), then monthly.
- Risperdal Consta: 25 mg intramuscularly every 2 weeks (with oral overlap for 3 weeks), building to target dose.
Perseris allows once-monthly from the start; Risperdal Consta requires biweekly loading.[1][2]
| Feature | Perseris | Risperdal Consta |
|---------|----------|------------------|
| Injection Site | Subcutaneous (abdomen) | Intramuscular (deltoid/gluteal) |
| Frequency | Monthly | Every 2 weeks initially, then monthly possible |
| Volume | 1.5 mL fixed | Variable (2 mL max) |
| Storage | Room temperature | Refrigerated |
Who Makes Them and Patent Status?
Indivior and Incora Pharmaceuticals (formerly Otsuka) developed Perseris; it's marketed by Indivior. Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) created and sells Risperdal Consta. Perseris patents extend exclusivity into the 2030s, with no generics approved yet. Risperdal Consta faces generic competition since 2020, including from Teva and Alkermes.[1][4][5]
Efficacy and Tolerability Differences
Clinical trials show similar efficacy in reducing schizophrenia symptoms, with Perseris achieving therapeutic levels faster (day 1 vs. weeks for Consta). Perseris reports higher injection-site reactions (e.g., pain, swelling in 10-20% of patients) but lower weight gain risk. Both carry black-box warnings for increased mortality in elderly dementia patients and metabolic risks.[2][3]
Cost and Access Considerations
Perseris lists around $3,000-$4,000 per monthly dose (wholesale), higher than generic Risperdal Consta at $1,000-$2,000. Insurance coverage varies; Perseris patient assistance programs exist for eligible patients.[6]
[1]: FDA Label - Perseris
[2]: FDA Label - Risperdal Consta
[3]: Perseris Prescribing Information
[4]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Perseris Patents
[5]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Risperdal Consta Patents
[6]: GoodRx Pricing Comparison