Is UZEDY Given as a Monthly Injection?
Yes, UZEDY (risperidone) is approved for once-monthly subcutaneous injections to treat schizophrenia in adults.[1] It's administered by a healthcare provider every 4 weeks.
How Often Are UZEDY Doses Given?
UZEDY comes in two dosing schedules: monthly (50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, or 125 mg) or every 2 months (150 mg, 200 mg, 250 mg, or 300 mg). The monthly option is the most common starting point, with dose adjustments based on patient response.[1]
How Is UZEDY Administered?
It's given as a single subcutaneous injection in the abdomen or upper arm, using a pre-filled syringe. No loading doses or oral supplementation are required. Treatment starts after switching from other antipsychotics, with the first dose typically 24 hours after the last oral dose.[1]
Who Makes UZEDY and When Did It Launch?
Teva Pharmaceuticals and MedinCell developed UZEDY, approved by the FDA in April 2023. It's the first long-acting risperidone using MedinCell's SteadySteady technology for consistent drug release.[1]
What Are Common Patient Questions About UZEDY?
Patients often ask about injection site reactions (pain, redness), which occur in about 10-15% of cases and are usually mild. Weight gain and drowsiness are also reported, similar to oral risperidone. It's not for pediatric use or acute agitation.[1]
How Does UZEDY Compare to Other Long-Acting Injectables?
Unlike monthly risperidone Consta (which needs two injections per dose and oral overlap), UZEDY is once-monthly with no oral supplementation. It competes with Abilify Maintena (monthly) and Invega Sustenna (monthly), offering potentially steadier levels via its copolymer matrix.[1][2]
Sources
[1]: UZEDY Prescribing Information (Teva)
[2]: Drugs.com - UZEDY