Long-Acting Risperidone in Young Adults with Early Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Illness
Robert A. Lasser MD MBACynthia A. Bossie PhD
Young Zhu PhD
Julie C. Locklear PharmD
John M. Kane MD
pages: 65 - 71
- DOI: 10.1080/10401230701332931
- Version of record first published: 27Apr2007
Abstract:
Background. Treatment with long-acting injectable risperidone was evaluated in young adults likely to be in the early stages of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.
Method. An open-label 50-week trial included young adults (men aged 18–25 years and women aged 18–30 years).
Results. Sixty-six young adults received at least 1 injection of long-acting risperidone (25 or 50 mg) every two weeks; 64% of the patients completed the 50-week trial. A mode dose of 25 mg/14 days was received by 23 patients and 50 mg/14 days by 43 patients. Mean PANSS scores improved significantly from baseline at each time point, with 64% of the patients showing clinical improvement (≥20% reduction in PANSS total scores) at endpoint. Patient-rated quality of life (SF-36 scores) improved and patients' attitudes toward the medication were positive (DAI scores). Severity of movement disorders (ESRS) and injection-site pain ratings were low throughout the trial. Results were similar in the population of other (older) patients.
Conclusions. Long-acting risperidone was associated with clinical benefits in stable young adults with early schizophrenia or schizoaffective illness.