Long-acting medicines (LAMs) may help some people living with schizophrenia focus on what matters most.
Learn how long-acting medicines work, what to consider, and how to talk with your care team about whether one could be right for you.
Long-acting medicines release medication slowly over weeks or months. Some antipsychotic medicines for schizophrenia are available as long-acting injectables (LAIs). S&PAA uses the broader term LAMs; this page focuses on injectable options.
Like daily antipsychotic medicines, injectable LAMs can help manage symptoms of psychosis, such as hearing or seeing things that others do not. Medication is one part of care, which may also include therapy, family support and help with everyday life.
Fewer daily pills to think about
You may not need a daily pill for the medicine given by injection.
More consistent treatment
Slow release can help maintain medication levels and reduce gaps caused by missed daily doses. For some people, this may lower the risk of symptoms returning or needing hospital care.
Regular check-ins with your care team
Injection visits are a chance to discuss how treatment is going.
You can ask about LAMs early in treatment or simply because you prefer fewer daily doses. A LAM is not right for everyone. Your care team can help you weigh your options around your health, goals and preferences.
Side effects vary by medicine and by person. They can include sleepiness, restlessness, weight gain, movement problems, or pain or swelling where the injection is given. Some risks can be serious. Ask about the specific medicine’s risks, monitoring and which symptoms need urgent attention.
Because the medicine stays in your body longer, side effects may take longer to resolve after a treatment change. Talk with your prescriber about how any concerns would be managed.
Tell your care team. Ask them to explain what will happen and discuss ways to make the appointment more comfortable. Your concerns should be part of the treatment conversation.
Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary. Ask your care team and insurer what is covered, including the injection visit. Financial assistance may be available, depending on the medicine and your eligibility.
You can invite a family member or trusted support person to join the conversation. Do not stop or change medication without talking with your prescriber.
Like daily antipsychotic medicines, injectable LAMs can help manage symptoms of psychosis, such as hearing or seeing things that others do not. Medication is one part of care, which may also include therapy, family support and help with everyday life.
You can invite a family member or trusted support person to join the conversation. Do not stop or change medication without talking with your prescriber.
Like daily antipsychotic medicines, injectable LAMs can help manage symptoms of psychosis, such as hearing or seeing things that others do not. Medication is one part of care, which may also include therapy, family support and help with everyday life.
This information is for education and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Explore additional information about long-acting medicines and injectable treatment options. Start with resources for peers and family, or browse the professional references below.
These links lead to external websites, including medication manufacturer sites. Some resources discuss specific medicines or reflect healthcare systems outside the United States. Talk with your care team about how the information relates to your treatment.
An introduction to LAIs, how they are used, and questions to discuss with your care team.
A patient and caregiver overview of LAIs, treatment routines and possible financial assistance. A login is required to download the tool.
Articles and a four-part video series with Henry Nasrallah and Bethany Yeiser covering LAI basics, convenience, first-episode use and treatment conversations.
A public guide to how LAIs work, injection appointments, side effects, treatment choices and physical-health monitoring. UK-focused information.
An explanation of slow-release injections, why someone might choose one, how they are given and how to obtain medication information. UK-focused information.
Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotics for Schizophrenia: What To Know
A patient article explaining LAIs, how they compare with daily pills, treatment options and questions to discuss with your care team.
A family-oriented medication sheet covering injections, starting treatment and side effects. Canada-focused, with child and adolescent context. Updated April 2022.
Patient information about LAIs and Johnson & Johnson’s specific long-acting treatment options.
A two-part educational video series about LAIs, treatment goals, potential benefits and risks, and conversations with your care team.
Manufacturer-provided patient information about ARISTADA, including treatment details, safety information and support resources.
The 2020 clinical practice guideline and related professional resources for schizophrenia care, including the role of LAIs in treatment. Read full guide here.
A July 2025 position statement calling for further research and enhanced education on LAIs in early psychotic illness, including patient autonomy and access.
A clinical overview of schizophrenia spectrum disorders and treatment, including a section on long-acting injectable antipsychotics. Publication PEP26-01-006.
A UK clinical guideline covering adult psychosis and schizophrenia care, including recommendations on considering and using LAIs.
Understand LAIs and how they work.
See if an LAI might be a good fit for you.
Look at options and what may be different.
Get ready for your treatment roadmap.
Have confident conversations.
Make the choice that’s right for you.
