<<<<<<< HEAD ======= >>>>>>> 8d85671 (AGHK-47821 - CPRA implementation) Schizophrenia Medication Options | Choices in Recovery
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Treatment Options

Schizophrenia Medication Options for Adults

Treatment for schizophrenia usually includes a variety of medications to choose from, along with supportive treatments. Medications that come in oral, liquid, or injectable forms allow for many options to choose from when selecting the most appropriate medication option to manage symptoms. And, of course, you may have other comorbid conditions that require prescription medication.

Partner with your treatment team when making choices about medication management.



Antipsychotics

Antipsychotic medications come in various dosage forms, including long-acting injectables, tablets, capsules, dissolvable tablets, and oral solutions. Review each of these options below.

  • Injectable Antipsychotic Medications
    Long-acting Injectables (LAIs)

    Long-acting injectable antipsychotic medications are given once or twice a month, or less frequently.

    Long-acting Injectables

    • Are administered in a prescriber’s office, hospital, or, in some states, a pharmacy setting
    • Get absorbed slowly into the body over time
    • Allow longer periods of time between doses

    Short-acting Injectables (SAIs)

    Short-acting injectable antipsychotic medications may be used to help manage acute psychotic episodes.

  • Tablets and Capsules

    Tablets and capsules are another kind of prescribed medication.

    Tablets and capsules

    • Need to be taken as prescribed by your provider
    • Come in varying doses
    • Can be taken directly by the patient (does not require healthcare professional administration)
  • Dissolvable Tablets

    Dissolvable tablets use saliva to dissolve the medication for best absorption.

    Dissolvable tablets

    • May need to be taken more than 1 time a day
    • May need to be absorbed before eating or drinking
  • Oral Solutions

    Oral solutions are liquid-based medications that are swallowed.

    Oral solutions

    • May need to be taken more than 1 time a day
    • Require measuring with a dosing spoon, oral syringe, or dropper

What Else to Consider

Your provider may ask you about or provide you with details regarding the following to find the best medication options for you

  • Medical history, including hospitalizations
  • Expectations about how medication(s) could help
  • Potential risks and side effects
  • Clear direction about how to take the medication
  • Financial considerations

No matter where you are on your recovery journey, work closely with a mental health prescriber and the other members of your treatment team to find the best options for your unique needs.

For more information about a specific long-acting medication, click here.

What’s next?

Learn About Schizoaffective Disorder Medication Options for Adults