See the DrugPatentWatch profile for uzedy
What is UZEDY and Its Approved Dosing Schedule?
UZEDY (risperidone) is an extended-release injectable antipsychotic for schizophrenia in adults, administered subcutaneously by healthcare providers every 1 or 2 months.[1]
- Monthly (every 4 weeks): 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, or 125 mg.
- Every 2 months: 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, or 250 mg.
Dosing starts after oral risperidone stabilization (at least 4 days), with the first UZEDY dose given on the next scheduled oral dose day. No oral supplementation is needed after the first injection.[1]
How Do Providers Choose Monthly vs. Every-2-Months Dosing?
Monthly suits patients needing frequent monitoring or lower tolerability. Every-2-months targets adherence convenience, using roughly double the monthly dose for equivalent exposure. Dose adjustments consider prior oral dose (e.g., 2-4 mg oral daily converts to 50-100 mg monthly UZEDY).[1]
What Happens During the First Dose and Missed Doses?
First injection timing aligns with oral regimen end. For missed doses:
- Within 4 weeks late (monthly) or 8 weeks (2-month): Give ASAP, resume schedule.
- Beyond that: Restart oral risperidone until next UZEDY dose.
No loading dose required.[1]
Dosage Adjustments for Liver or Kidney Issues
- Mild-moderate liver impairment: Start at 50 mg monthly or 100 mg every 2 months; titrate if tolerated.
- Severe liver impairment: Avoid.
- Renal impairment (any degree): Use 50 mg monthly or 100 mg every 2 months max; monitor closely.[1]
Injection Site and Administration Details
Given subcutaneously in the abdomen or upper arm (rotate sites). Use pre-filled syringes; do not shake. Full absorption takes weeks, so prior oral overlap ensures coverage.[1]
[1]: UZEDY Prescribing Information (Teva Pharmaceuticals)