paliperidone (Invega)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antipsychotic medication like paliperidone (Invega) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder

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What is an antipsychotic?

Antipsychotics are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, like hearing and seeing things that other people do not, feeling paranoid, or having delusions.

How does an antipsychotic work?

Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine in the brain, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic symptoms.

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find a provider who meets your needs

    Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).

  • 2

    Meet 1:1 to begin treatment

    Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Attend sessions and start feeling better

    Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.

FAQs

What is paliperidone (Invega) used for?

Paliperidone (Invega) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

How long does paliperidone (Invega) stay in your system?

Invega has a half-life of about 23 hours. This is how long it takes for half the drug to leave your body after you take a dose. Typically, it takes around five half-lives for a medication to completely leave your system, meaning it may take around five days for paliperidone to clear your system after you take a dose.

Does paliperidone (Invega) cause weight gain or loss?

Weight gain is a common side effect of paliperidone, and commonly occurred in studies of people taking the medication. Paliperidone doesn't typically cause weight loss, though. If you have concerns about weight gain with paliperidone treatment, talk with your provider.

How long do paliperidone (Invega) side effects last?

Mild side effects of paliperidone are typically temporary and go away as you continue taking the medication. However, some side effects of paliperidone may be serious and last long term. Examples include uncontrolled movements, heart problems, high blood sugar, weight gain, drops in blood pressure when standing up, inability to stay still, and seizures. If you experience side effects that are bothersome or serious, call your provider. They can discuss your options with you, including stopping paliperidone if it's not safe for you.

Is paliperidone (Invega) a controlled substance?

No, paliperidone is not a controlled substance. It is not habit-forming and is not known to cause addiction. If you have other questions about how paliperidone works, talk with your provider or pharmacist.

Can you take paliperidone (Invega) and risperidone together?

In some cases, your provider may prescribe both paliperidone and risperidone for long-term use. However, the long-term effects of taking both together are not known, and taking them together may increase your risk of side effects. If you have questions about taking paliperidone and risperidone together, talk with your provider.

Does paliperidone (Invega) make you sleepy?

Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect of paliperidone. This side effect may go away as you continue taking the medication. However, until you know how paliperidone affects you, don't drive or perform tasks that require alertness. If you have questions about this side effect, talk with your provider to learn more.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published December 10, 2024

We offer psychiatry in these select states

Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.

Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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