Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotics (LAIs)

Long-acting injectable antipsychotics are medications given via injection that slowly release into the bloodstream over an extended period.  

They are designed to bypass that day-to-day hurdle: instead of taking a pill every day, you receive a shot every 2–12 weeks, depending on the medication.

By maintaining stable therapeutic levels in the body, LAIs help prevent the fluctuations that can occur with oral medications. This steady delivery can lead to more consistent symptom control and better overall treatment outcomes.

• Have difficulty adhering to a daily pill schedule
• Experience frequent relapses when missing doses
• Benefit from the stability of regular clinic visits and ongoing monitoring

Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder

LAIs are a cornerstone of treatment for schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, helping reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking while supporting long-term stability.

Bipolar I Disorder with Psychotic Features

For patients with bipolar I disorder who experience psychotic symptoms, LAIs can help stabilize mood swings and reduce the severity of episodes.

Severe or Treatment-Resistant Psychosis

Patients who have not responded well to oral medications or who relapse frequently may benefit from a steady, long-acting approach.

Adjunctive Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder

In certain cases, LAIs may be used alongside antidepressants to enhance treatment for major depressive disorder with psychotic features.