The first long-acting atypical antipsychotic for people with schizophrenia that is injected into the shoulder muscle will be listed on the PBS from the start of this month.
Risperdal Consta Deltoid (risperidone) is administered with a 21-gauge, 2.54cm (1 inch) safety needle to the muscle of the upper arm which, according to University of Sydney psychiatrist Professor Tim Lambert, will offer patients greater choice and boost adherence.
"One of the keys to relapse prevention is, of course, improving adherence to treatments," Prof Lambert said.
It helps considerably if both patient and doctor work together on agreeing what is the best treatment in their particular situation.
According to the drug's maker, Janssen-Cilag, Risperdal Consta had been shown to reduce the risk of relapse and rehospitalisation and could help promote remission among schizophrenia patients.
"The human costs of relapse in the real world are devastating," Prof Lambert said.
"Relapse can interrupt a person's education and employment status, disrupt friendships and family life and ultimately delay the likelihood of recovery. New long-acting therapies may help promote better patient outcomes."