Erzofri ((Paliperidone Palmitate)) for Depression

Overview
Erzofri, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is an atypical (second-generation) antipsychotic drug used for treating schizophrenia in adults. People who are new to Erzofri or similar drugs like paliperidone or risperidone should first try the oral form of paliperidone or risperidone to make sure they can tolerate it before starting Erzofri. The drug is not approved for use in elderly individuals with dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risks in this population. Erzofri is also known by its drug name, paliperidone palmitate.

The drug belongs to the category of atypical antipsychotics, which work by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. These neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) play a significant role in mood, behavior, and cognition (brain function). By adjusting these chemical imbalances, Erzofri helps alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Erzofri is administered as an extended-release injectable suspension. It is given as an intramuscular injection, initially into the deltoid muscle by a health care professional. After the first dose, monthly injections can be administered into either the deltoid or gluteal muscle. This medication should not be self-administered. 

For treating schizophrenia, dosing generally begins on Day 1 with a higher dosage, followed by monthly doses. Dose size varies from person to person. Erzofri should always be administered exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Erzofri include injection site reactions, somnolence (drowsiness), sedation, dizziness, akathisia (a feeling of restlessness), and extrapyramidal disorder (movement disorders).

Rare but serious side effects may include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a life-threatening neurological disorder); QT prolongation (a heart rhythm disorder); tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements); metabolic changes such as hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid levels), and weight gain; orthostatic hypotension (sudden blood pressure drop when standing up); syncope (fainting); leukopenia (low white blood cell count); neutropenia (low neutrophil count); agranulocytosis (a severe decrease in white blood cells); hyperprolactinemia (high levels of prolactin hormone); cognitive and motor impairment; and seizures. There is also an increased risk of cerebrovascular (related to brain and blood vessels) adverse reactions, such as strokes and transient ischemic attacks, in elderly individuals with dementia-related psychosis. 

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Erzofri (Paliperidone Palmitate) Extended-Release Injectable Suspension, for Intramuscular Use — U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Erzofri — Drugs.com