Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Invega (paliperidone) and Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia, but they have some key differences. Invega is available in both oral and injectable forms, while Aristada is only available as an injection. Invega can be taken daily as an extended-release pill or injected every 1-6 month depending on the formulation, whereas Aristada is a long-acting injection given every 1 to 2 months. Invega is also approved for schizoaffective disorder, while Aristada is not. Aristada requires you to first tolerate Abilify (aripiprazole) oral tablets before starting the injection, while longer-acting Invega has a similar requirement that patients need to tolerate shorter-acting formulations for a 3-4 months depending on the formulation. Common side effects of Invega include drowsiness and uncontrolled muscle movements, while Aristada can cause restlessness and injection site pain. Both medications can lead to weight gain and high blood sugar, but Aristada is noted for having fewer side effects compared to some other antipsychotics.
Invega (paliperidone)
Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil)
Invega (paliperidone)
Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil)
Summary of Invega vs. Aristada
Summary for Atypical antipsychotic
Prescription only
Invega (paliperidone) is taken by mouth and used to improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors in people who have schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. It's available as both brand and generic versions in an extended-release pill, which means the medication is released slowly in your body. It only needs to be taken once a day. Some common side effects include drowsiness and uncontrolled muscle movements. There are long-acting injection forms of this medication available given by a trained healthcare provider.
Summary for Atypical antipsychotic
Prescription only
Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil) is used to improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors in adults who have schizophrenia. It's a long-acting medication that's injected into your muscle every 1 to 2 months by your healthcare provider. It's only used in people who can tolerate Abilify (aripiprazole) oral tablets.
Indications of Invega vs. Aristada
Indications for
•Schizophrenia
•Schizoaffective disorder
Indications for
•Schizophrenia
Pros and Cons of Invega vs. Aristada
Pros and Const for Atypical antipsychotic
Pros
•Available in many different strengths to make it easier to customize your dose
•Can be used in adolescents
•Only need to take the medication once a day
Cons
•You might have to see your provider several times until you find a dose that works best for you
•Can make you feel sleepy or sedated
•Can cause weight gain
Pros and Const for Atypical antipsychotic
Pros
•Can be given up to once every 2 months
•Good option for people who have a hard time taking medications by mouth
•Has fewer side effects compared to some other antipsychotic medications