✅ Uses & Indications
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Paliperidone extended-release tablets are an atypical antipsychotic agent indicated for Treatment of schizophrenia (1.1) Adults: Efficacy was established in three 6-week trials and one maintenance trial. (14.1) Adolescents (ages 12 to 17): Efficacy was established in one 6-week trial. (14.1) Treatment of schizoaffective disorder as monotherapy and as an adjunct to mood stabilizers and/or antidepressants. (1.2) Efficacy was established in two 6-week trials in adult patients. (14.2) 1.1 Schizophrenia Paliperidone extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. The efficacy of paliperidone extended-release tablets in schizophrenia was established in three 6-week trials in adults and one 6-week trial in adolescents, as well as one maintenance trial in adults. 1.2 Schizoaffective Disorder Paliperidone extended-release tablets are indicated for the treatment of schizoaffective disorder as monotherapy and an adjunct to mood stabilizers and/or antidepressant therapy [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . The efficacy of paliperidone in schizoaffective disorder was established in two 6-week trials in adults.
📏 Dosage & Administration
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Initial Dose Recommended Dose Maximum Dose Schizophrenia - adults (2.1) 6 mg/day 3 to 12 mg/day 12 mg/day Schizophrenia-adolescents (2.1) Weight < 51 kg 3 mg/day 3 to 6 mg/day 6 mg/day Weight ≥ 51 kg 3 mg/day 3 to 12 mg/day 12 mg/day Schizoaffective disorder - adults (2.2) 6 mg/day 3 to 12 mg/day 12 mg/day Tablet should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed, divided, or crushed. (2.3) 2.1 Schizophrenia Adults The recommended dose of paliperidone extended-release tablets for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults is 6 mg administered once daily. Initial dose titration is not required. Although it has not been systematically established that doses above 6 mg have additional benefit, there was a general trend for greater effects with higher doses. This must be weighed against the dose-related increase in adverse reactions. Thus, some patients may benefit from higher doses, up to 12 mg/day, and for some patients, a lower dose of 3 mg/day may be sufficient. Dose increases above 6 mg/day should be made only after clinical reassessment and generally should occur at intervals of more than 5 days. When dose increases are indicated, increments of 3 mg/day are recommended. The maximum recommended dose is 12 mg/day. In a longer-term study, paliperidone extended-release tablets have been shown to be effective in delaying time to relapse in patients with schizophrenia who were stabilized on paliperidone extended-release tablets for 6 weeks [see Clinical Studies (14) ]. Paliperidone extended-release tablets should be prescribed at the lowest effective dose for maintaining clinical stability and the physician should periodically reevaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug in individual patients. Adolescents (12 to 17 years of age) The recommended starting dose of paliperidone extended-release tablets for the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents 12 to 17 years of age is 3 mg administered once daily. Initial dose titration is not required. Dose increases, if considered necessary, should be made only after clinical reassessment and should occur at increments of 3 mg/day at intervals of more than 5 days. Prescribers should be mindful that, in the adolescent schizophrenia study, there was no clear enhancement to efficacy at the higher doses, i.e., 6 mg for subjects weighing less than 51 kg and 12 mg for subjects weighing 51 kg or greater, while adverse events were dose-related. 2.2 Schizoaffective Disorder The recommended dose of paliperidone extended-release tablets for the treatment of schizoaffective disorder in adults is 6 mg administered once daily. Initial dose titration is not required. Some patients may benefit from lower or higher doses within the recommended dose range of 3 to 12 mg once daily. A general trend for greater effects was seen with higher doses. This trend must be weighed against dose-related increase in adverse reactions. Dosage adjustment, if indicated, should occur only after clinical reassessment. Dose increases, if indicated, generally should occur at intervals of more than 4 days. When dose increases are indicated, increments of 3 mg/day are recommended. The maximum recommended dose is 12 mg/day. 2.3 Administration Instructions Paliperidone extended-release tablets can be taken with or without food. Paliperidone extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole with the aid of liquids. Tablets should not be chewed, divided, or crushed. The medication is contained within a nonabsorbable shell designed to release the drug at a controlled rate. The tablet shell, along with insoluble core components, is eliminated from the body; patients should not be concerned if they occasionally notice in their stool something that looks like a tablet. 2.4 Use with Risperidone Concomitant use of paliperidone extended-release tablets with risperidone has not been studied. Since paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone, consideration should be given to the additive paliperidone exposure if risperidone is co-administered with paliperidone extended-release tablets. 2.5 Dosage in Special Populations Renal Impairment Dosing must be individualized according to the patient’s renal function status. For patients with mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≥ 50 mL/min to < 80 mL/min), the recommended initial dose of paliperidone extended-release tablets is 3 mg once daily. The dose may then be increased to a maximum of 6 mg once daily based on clinical response and tolerability. For patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≥ 10 mL/min to < 50 mL/min), the recommended initial dose of paliperidone extended-release tablets is 1.5 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 3 mg once daily after clinical reassessment. As paliperidone extended-release tablets have not been studied in patients with creatinine clearance below 10 mL/min, use is not recommended in such patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Hepatic Impairment For patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, (Child-Pugh Classification A and B), no dose adjustment is recommended [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Paliperidone extended-release tablets have not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Elderly Because elderly patients may have diminished renal function, dose adjustments may be required according to their renal function status. In general, recommended dosing for elderly patients with normal renal function is the same as for younger adult patients with normal renal function. For patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10 mL/min to < 50 mL/min), the maximum recommended dose of paliperidone extended-release tablets are 3 mg once daily [see Renal Impairment above].
💊 Side Effects
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Cerebrovascular adverse reactions, including stroke, in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Neuroleptic malignant syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] QT prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Tardive dyskinesia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Metabolic changes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Hyperprolactinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Potential for gastrointestinal obstruction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Orthostatic hypotension and syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Falls [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Potential for cognitive and motor impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] Dysphagia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] Priapism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] Disruption of body temperature regulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ] Commonly observed adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% and at least twice that for placebo) were (6) Adults with schizophrenia: extrapyramidal symptoms, tachycardia, and akathisia. Adolescents with schizophrenia: somnolence, akathisia, tremor, dystonia, cogwheel rigidity, anxiety, weight increased, and tachycardia. Adults with schizoaffective disorder: extrapyramidal symptoms, somnolence, dyspepsia, constipation, weight increased, and nasopharyngitis. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact AvKARE at 1-855-361-3993 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience The most common adverse reactions in clinical trials in adult subjects with schizophrenia (reported in 5% or more of subjects treated with paliperidone and at least twice the placebo rate in any of the dose groups) were extrapyramidal symptoms, tachycardia, and akathisia. The most common adverse reactions in clinical trials in adult patients with schizoaffective disorder (reported in 5% or more of subjects treated with paliperidone and at least twice the placebo rate) were extrapyramidal symptoms, somnolence, dyspepsia, constipation, weight increased, and nasopharyngitis. The most common adverse reactions that were associated with discontinuation from clinical trials in adult subjects with schizophrenia (causing discontinuation in 2% of paliperidone-treated subjects) were nervous system disorders. The most common adverse reactions that were associated with discontinuation from clinical trials in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder were gastrointestinal disorders, which resulted in discontinuation in 1% of paliperidone-treated subjects [see Adverse Reactions (6) ]. The safety of paliperidone was evaluated in 1205 adult subjects with schizophrenia who participated in three placebo-controlled, 6-week, double-blind trials, of whom 850 subjects received paliperidone at fixed doses ranging from 3 mg to 12 mg once daily. The information presented in this section was derived from pooled data from these three trials. Additional safety information from the placebo-controlled phase of the long-term maintenance study, in which subjects received paliperidone at daily doses within the range of 3 mg to 15 mg (n=104), is also included. The safety of paliperidone was evaluated in 150 adolescent subjects 12 to 17 years of age with schizophrenia who received paliperidone in the dose range of 1.5 mg to 12 mg/day in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The safety of paliperidone was also evaluated in 622 adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder who participated in two placebo-controlled, 6-week, double-blind trials. In one of these trials, 206 subjects were assigned to one of two dose levels of paliperidone: 6 mg with the option to reduce to 3 mg (n = 108) or 12 mg with the option to reduce to 9 mg (n = 98) once daily. In the other study, 214 subjects received flexible doses of paliperidone (3 to 12 mg once daily). Both studies included subjects who received paliperidone either as monotherapy or as an adjunct to mood stabilizers and/or antidepressants. Adverse events during exposure to study treatment were obtained by general inquiry and recorded by clinical investigators using their own terminology. Consequently, to provide a meaningful estimate of the proportion of individuals experiencing adverse events, events were grouped in standardized categories using MedDRA terminology. Throughout this section, adverse reactions are reported. Adverse reactions are adverse events that were considered to be reasonably associated with the use of paliperidone (adverse drug reactions) based on the comprehensive assessment of the available adverse event information. A causal association for paliperidone often cannot be reliably established in individual cases. Further, because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Commonly-Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials – Schizophrenia in Adults and Adolescents Adult Patients with Schizophrenia Table 4 enumerates the pooled incidences of adverse reactions reported in the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adults, listing those that occurred in 2% or more of subjects treated with paliperidone in any of the dose groups, and for which the incidence in paliperidone-treated subjects in any of the dose groups was greater than the incidence in subjects treated with placebo. Table 4. Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥ 2% of Paliperidone-Treated Adult Subjects with Schizophrenia in Three Short-Term, Fixed-Dose, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials * Percentage of Patients Paliperidone Placebo 3 mg once daily 6 mg once daily 9 mg once daily 12 mg once daily Body System or Organ Class (N=355) (N=127) (N=235) (N=246) (N=242) Dictionary-Derived Term Total percentage of subjects with adverse reactions 37 48 47 53 59 Cardiac disorders Atrioventricular block first degree 1 2 0 2 1 Bundle branch block 2 3 1 3 2% of Paliperidone-Treated Adult Subjects with Schizoaffective Disorder in Two Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials * Percentage of Patients Placebo Paliperidone 3 to 6 mg once-daily fixed-dose range Paliperidone 9 to 12 mg once-daily fixed-dose range Paliperidone 3 to 12 mg once-daily flexible dose Body System or Organ Class (N=202) (N=108) (N=98) (N=214) Dictionary-Derived Term Total percentage of subjects with adverse reactions 32 48 50 43 Cardiac disorders Tachycardia 2 3 1 2 Gastrointestinal disorders Abdominal discomfort/Abdominal pain upper 1 1 0 3 Constipation 2 4 5 4 Dyspepsia 2 5 6 6 Nausea 6 8 8 5 Stomach discomfort 1 0 1 2 General disorders Asthenia 1 3 4 2% incidence in the subjects treated with paliperidone, the incidences of the following adverse reactions increased with dose: tachycardia, akathisia, extrapyramidal symptoms, somnolence, and headache. Schizoaffective Disorder Trials In a placebo-controlled, 6-week, high- and low-dose study in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder, akathisia, dystonia, dysarthria, myalgia, nasopharyngitis, rhinitis, cough, and pharyngolaryngeal pain occurred more frequently (i.e., a difference of at least 2%) in subjects who received higher doses of paliperidone compared with subjects who received lower doses. Demographic Differences An examination of population subgroups in the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia and in the two placebo-controlled, 6-week studies in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder did not reveal any evidence of clinically relevant differences in safety on the basis of gender or race alone; there was also no difference on the basis of age [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ]. Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) Pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia provided information regarding treatment-emergent EPS. Several methods were used to measure EPS: (1) the Simpson-Angus global score (mean change from baseline) which broadly evaluates Parkinsonism, (2) the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale global clinical rating score (mean change from baseline) which evaluates akathisia, (3) use of anticholinergic medications to treat emergent EPS (Table 7) , and (4) incidence of spontaneous reports of EPS (Table 8) . For the Simpson-Angus Scale, spontaneous EPS reports and use of anticholinergic medications, there was a dose-related increase observed for the 9 mg and 12 mg doses. There was no difference observed between placebo and paliperidone 3 mg and 6 mg doses for any of these EPS measures. Table 7. Treatment-Emergent Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) Assessed by Incidence of Ratings Scales and Use of Anticholinergic Medication - Schizophrenia Studies in Adults Percentage of Patients Paliperidone Placebo 3 mg once daily 6 mg once daily 9 mg once daily 12 mg once daily EPS Group (N=355) (N=127) (N=235) (N=246) (N=242) Parkinsonism a 9 11 3 15 14 Akathisia b 6 6 4 7 9 Use of anticholinergic medications c 10 10 9 22 22 a For Parkinsonism, percent of patients with Simpson-Angus global score > 0.3 (Global score defined as total sum of items score divided by the number of items) b For Akathisia, percent of patients with Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale global score ≥ 2 c Percent of patients who received anticholinergic medications to treat emergent EPS Table 8. Treatment-Emergent Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS)-Related Adverse Events by MedDRA Preferred Term – Schizophrenia Studies in Adults Percentage of Patients Paliperidone Placebo 3 mg once daily 6 mg once daily 9 mg once daily 12 mg once daily EPS Group (N=355) (N=127) (N=235) (N=246) (N=242) Overall percentage of patients with EPS-related AE 11 13 10 25 26 Dyskinesia 3 5 3 8 9 Dystonia 1 1 1 5 5 Hyperkinesia 4 4 3 8 10 Parkinsonism 2 3 3 7 6 Tremor 3 3 3 4 3 Dyskinesia group includes: Dyskinesia, extrapyramidal disorder, muscle twitching, tardive dyskinesia Dystonia group includes: Dystonia, muscle spasms, oculogyration, trismus Hyperkinesia group includes: Akathisia, hyperkinesia Parkinsonism group includes: Bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, drooling, hypertonia, hypokinesia, muscle rigidity, musculoskeletal stiffness, parkinsonism Tremor group includes: Tremor Compared to data from the studies in adults subjects with schizophrenia, pooled data from the two placebo-controlled 6-week studies in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder showed similar types and frequencies of EPS as measured by rating scales, anticholinergic medication use, and spontaneous reports of EPS-related adverse events. For subjects with schizoaffective disorder, there was no dose-related increase in EPS observed for parkinsonism with the Simpson-Angus scale or akathisia with the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale. There was a dose-related increase observed with spontaneous EPS reports of hyperkinesia and dystonia and in the use of anticholinergic medications. Table 9 shows the EPS data from the pooled schizoaffective disorder trials. Table 9. Treatment-Emergent Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS)-Related Adverse Events by MedDRA Preferred Term – Schizoaffective Disorder Studies in Adults Percentage of Patients Paliperidone Placebo 3 to 6 mg once-daily fixed-dose range 9 to 12 mg once-daily fixed-dose range 3 to 12 mg once-daily flexible dose EPS Group (N=202) (N=108) (N=98) (N=214) Overall percentage of patients with EPS-related AE 11 23 22 17 Dyskinesia 1 3 1 1 Dystonia 1 2 3 2 Hyperkinesia 5 5 8 7 Parkinsonism 3 14 7 7 Tremor 3 12 11 5 Dyskinesia group includes: Dyskinesia, muscle twitching Dystonia group includes: Dystonia, muscle spasms, oculogyration Hyperkinesia group includes: Akathisia, hyperkinesia, restlessness Parkinsonism group includes: Bradykinesia, drooling, hypertonia, muscle rigidity, muscle tightness, musculoskeletal stiffness, parkinsonian gait, parkinsonism Tremor group includes: Tremor The incidences of EPS-related adverse events in the adolescent schizophrenia studies showed a similar dose-related pattern to those in the adult studies. There were notably higher incidences of dystonia, hyperkinesia, tremor, and parkinsonism in the adolescent population as compared to the adult studies (Table 10) . Table 10. Treatment-Emergent Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS)-Related Adverse Events by MedDRA Preferred Term – Schizophrenia Studies in Adolescent Subjects Percentage of Patients Paliperidone Placebo 1.5 mg once daily 3 mg once daily 6 mg once daily 12 mg once daily EPS Group (N=51) (N=54) (N=16) (N=45) (N=35) Overall percentage of patients with EPS-related AE 0 6 25 22 40 Hyperkinesia 0 4 6 11 17 Dystonia 0 2 0 11 14 Tremor 0 2 6 7 11 Parkinsonism 0 0 6 2 14 Dyskinesia 0 2 6 2 6 Hyperkinesia group includes: Akathisia Dystonia group includes: Dystonia, muscle contracture, oculogyric crisis, tongue paralysis, torticollis Tremor group includes: Tremor Parkinsonism group includes: Cogwheel rigidity, extrapyramidal disorder, muscle rigidity Dyskinesia group includes: Dyskinesia, muscle contractions involuntary Dystonia Class Effect: Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and at higher doses of first generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups. Laboratory Test Abnormalities In the pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia and from the two placebo-controlled, 6-week studies in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder, between-group comparisons revealed no medically important differences between paliperidone and placebo in the proportions of subjects experiencing potentially clinically significant changes in routine serum chemistry, hematology, or urinalysis parameters. Similarly, there were no differences between paliperidone and placebo in the incidence of discontinuations due to changes in hematology, urinalysis, or serum chemistry, including mean changes from baseline in fasting glucose, insulin, c-peptide, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol measurements. However, paliperidone was associated with increases in serum prolactin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Other Adverse Reactions Observed During Premarketing Evaluation of Paliperidone The following additional adverse reactions occurred in < 2% of paliperidone-treated subjects in the above schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder clinical trial datasets. The following also includes additional adverse reactions reported at any frequency by paliperidone-treated subjects who participated in other clinical studies. Cardiac disorders: bradycardia, palpitations Eye disorders: eye movement disorder Gastrointestinal disorders: flatulence General disorders: edema Immune system disorders: anaphylactic reaction Infections and infestations: urinary tract infection Investigations: alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: arthralgia, pain in extremity Nervous system disorders: opisthotonus Psychiatric disorders: agitation, insomnia, nightmare Reproductive system and breast disorders: breast discomfort, menstruation irregular, retrograde ejaculation Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: nasal congestion Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pruritus, rash Vascular disorders: hypertension The safety of paliperidone was also evaluated in a long-term trial designed to assess the maintenance of effect with paliperidone in adults with schizophrenia [see Clinical Studies (14) ]. In general, adverse reaction types, frequencies, and severities during the initial 14-week open-label phase of this study were comparable to those observed in the 6-week, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose studies. Adverse reactions reported during the long-term double-blind phase of this study were similar in type and severity to those observed in the initial 14-week open-label phase. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of paliperidone; because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency: angioedema, catatonia, ileus, priapism, somnambulism, swollen tongue, tardive dyskinesia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, urinary incontinence, urinary retention. 6.3 Adverse Reactions Reported with Risperidone Paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone. Adverse reactions reported with risperidone can be found in the ADVERSE REACTIONS section of the risperidone package insert.
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions: An increased incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack, including fatalities) has been seen in elderly patients with dementia-related psychoses treated with atypical antipsychotics. (5.2) Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Manage with immediate discontinuation of drug and close monitoring. (5.3) QT Prolongation: Increase in QT interval, avoid use with drugs that also increase QT interval and in patients with risk factors for prolonged QT interval. (5.4) Tardive Dyskinesia: Discontinue drug if clinically appropriate. (5.5) Metabolic Changes: Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with metabolic changes that may increase cardiovascular/cerebrovascular risk. These metabolic changes include hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and weight gain. (5.6) Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus: Monitor patients for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Monitor glucose regularly in patients with diabetes or at risk for diabetes. (5.6) Dyslipidemia: Undesirable alterations have been observed in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. (5.6) Weight Gain: Significant weight gain has been reported. Monitor weight gain. (5.6) Hyperprolactinemia: Prolactin elevations occur and persist during chronic administration. (5.7) Gastrointestinal Narrowing: Obstructive symptoms may result in patients with gastrointestinal disease. (5.8) Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope: Use with caution in patients with known cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease and patients predisposed to hypotension. (5.9) Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis: has been reported with antipsychotics, including paliperidone. Patients with a history of a clinically significant low white blood cell count (WBC) or a drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia should have their complete blood count (CBC) monitored frequently during the first few months of therapy and discontinuation of paliperidone should be considered at the first sign of a clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors. (5.11) Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Use caution when operating machinery. (5.12) Seizures: Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that lower the seizure threshold. (5.13) 5.1 Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks), largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, revealed a risk of death in drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times the risk of death in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group. Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. Observational studies suggest that, similar to atypical antipsychotic drugs, treatment with conventional antipsychotic drugs may increase mortality. The extent to which the findings of increased mortality in observational studies may be attributed to the antipsychotic drug as opposed to some characteristic(s) of the patients is not clear. Paliperidone is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis [see Boxed Warning ]. 5.2 Cerebrovascular Adverse Reactions, Including Stroke, in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis In placebo-controlled trials with risperidone, aripiprazole, and olanzapine in elderly subjects with dementia, there was a higher incidence of cerebrovascular adverse reactions (cerebrovascular accidents and transient ischemic attacks) including fatalities compared to placebo-treated subjects. Paliperidone was not marketed at the time these studies were performed. Paliperidone is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see also Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. 5.3 Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal symptom complex, has been reported in association with antipsychotic drugs, including paliperidone. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status including delirium, and autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria, rhabdomyolysis, and acute renal failure. If NMS is suspected, immediately discontinue paliperidone and provide symptomatic treatment and monitoring. 5.4 QT Prolongation Paliperidone causes a modest increase in the corrected QT (QTc) interval. The use of paliperidone should be avoided in combination with other drugs that are known to prolong QTc including Class 1A (e.g., quinidine, procainamide) or Class III (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic medications, antipsychotic medications (e.g., chlorpromazine, thioridazine), antibiotics (e.g., gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin), or any other class of medications known to prolong the QTc interval. Paliperidone should also be avoided in patients with congenital long QT syndrome and in patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias. Certain circumstances may increase the risk of the occurrence of torsade de pointes and/or sudden death in association with the use of drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including (1) bradycardia; (2) hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia; (3) concomitant use of other drugs that prolong the QTc interval; and (4) presence of congenital prolongation of the QT interval. The effects of paliperidone on the QT interval were evaluated in a double-blind, active-controlled (moxifloxacin 400 mg single dose), multicenter QT study in adults with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, and in three placebo- and active-controlled 6-week, fixed-dose efficacy trials in adults with schizophrenia. In the QT study (n = 141), the 8 mg dose of immediate-release oral paliperidone (n=50) showed a mean placebo-subtracted increase from baseline in QTcLD of 12.3 msec (90% CI: 8.9; 15.6) on day 8 at 1.5 hours post-dose. The mean steady-state peak plasma concentration for this 8 mg dose of paliperidone immediate-release was more than twice the exposure observed with the maximum recommended 12 mg dose of paliperidone (C max ss = 113 ng/mL and 45 ng/mL, respectively, when administered with a standard breakfast). In this same study, a 4 mg dose of the immediate-release oral formulation of paliperidone, for which C max ss = 35 ng/mL, showed an increased placebo-subtracted QTcLD of 6.8 msec (90% CI: 3.6; 10.1) on day 2 at 1.5 hours post-dose. None of the subjects had a change exceeding 60 msec or a QTcLD exceeding 500 msec at any time during this study. For the three fixed-dose efficacy studies in subjects with schizophrenia, electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements taken at various time points showed only one subject in the paliperidone 12 mg group had a change exceeding 60 msec at one time-point on Day 6 (increase of 62 msec). No subject receiving paliperidone had a QTcLD exceeding 500 msec at any time in any of these three studies. 5.5 Tardive Dyskinesia Tardive dyskinesia, a syndrome consisting of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements, may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. Although the prevalence of the syndrome appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, it is impossible to predict which patients will develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drug products differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown. The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible appear to increase with duration of treatment and the cumulative dose. The syndrome can develop after relatively brief treatment periods, even at low doses. It may also occur after discontinuation of treatment. Tardive dyskinesia may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is withdrawn. Antipsychotic treatment, itself, however, may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome and thereby may possibly mask the underlying process. The effect that symptomatic suppression has upon the long-term course of the syndrome is unknown. Given these considerations, paliperidone should be prescribed in a manner that is most likely to minimize the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia. Chronic antipsychotic treatment should generally be reserved for patients: (1) who suffer from a chronic illness that is known to respond to antipsychotic drugs, and (2) for whom alternative, equally effective, but potentially less harmful treatments are not available or appropriate. In patients who do require chronic treatment, use the lowest dose and the shortest duration of treatment producing a satisfactory clinical response. Periodically reassess the need for continued treatment. If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient on paliperidone, drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with paliperidone despite the presence of the syndrome. 5.6 Metabolic Changes Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with metabolic changes that may increase cardiovascular/cerebrovascular risk. These metabolic changes include hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and body weight gain. While all of the drugs in the class have been shown to produce some metabolic changes, each drug has its own specific risk profile. Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus Hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, have been reported in patients treated with all atypical antipsychotics. These cases were, for the most part, seen in post-marketing clinical use and epidemiologic studies, not in clinical trials, and there have been few reports of hyperglycemia or diabetes in trial subjects treated with paliperidone. Assessment of the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of an increased background risk of diabetes mellitus in patients with schizophrenia and the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus in the general population. Given these confounders, the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and hyperglycemia-related adverse events is not completely understood. However, epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of treatment-emergent hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with the atypical antipsychotics. Because paliperidone was not marketed at the time these studies were performed, it is not known if paliperidone is associated with this increased risk. Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical antipsychotics should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (e.g., obesity, family history of diabetes) who are starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient treated with atypical antipsychotics should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when the atypical antipsychotic was discontinued; however, some patients required continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of the suspect drug. Pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia are presented in Table 1a. Table 1a. Change in Fasting Glucose from Three Placebo-Controlled, 6-Week, Fixed-Dose Studies in Adult Subjects with Schizophrenia Paliperidone Placebo 3 mg/day 6 mg/day 9 mg/day 12 mg/day Mean change from baseline (mg/dL) n=322 n=122 n=212 n=234 n=218 Serum Glucose Change from baseline 0.8 -0.7 0.4 2.3 4.3 Proportion of Patients with Shifts Serum Glucose Normal to High 5.1% 3.2% 4.5% 4.8% 3.8% (<100 mg/dL to ≥126 mg/dL) (12/236) (3/93) (7/156) (9/187) (6/157) In the uncontrolled, longer-term open-label extension studies, paliperidone was associated with a mean change in glucose of +3.3 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=570) and +4.6 mg/dL at Week 52 (n=314). Data from the placebo-controlled 6-week study in adolescent subjects (12 to 17 years of age) with schizophrenia are presented in Table 1b. Table 1b. Change in Fasting Glucose from a Placebo-Controlled 6-Week Study in Adolescent Subjects (12 to 17 years of age) with Schizophrenia Paliperidone Placebo 1.5 mg/day 3 mg/day 6 mg/day 12 mg/day Mean change from baseline (mg/dL) n=41 n=44 n=11 n=28 n=32 Serum Glucose Change from baseline 0.8 -1.4 -1.8 -0.1 5.2 Proportion of Patients with Shifts Serum Glucose Normal to High 3% 0% 0% 0% 11% (<100 mg/dL to ≥126 mg/dL) (1/32) (0/34) (0/9) (0/20) (3/27) Dyslipidemia Undesirable alterations in lipids have been observed in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. Pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia are presented in Table 2a. Table 2a. Change in Fasting Lipids from Three Placebo-Controlled, 6-Week, Fixed-Dose Studies in Adult Subjects with Schizophrenia Paliperidone Placebo 3 mg/day 6 mg/day 9 mg/day 12 mg/day Mean change from baseline (mg/dL) Cholesterol n=331 n=120 n=216 n=236 n=231 Change from baseline -6.3 -4.4 -2.4 -5.3 -4 LDL n=322 n=116 n=210 n=231 n=225 Change from baseline -3.2 0.5 -0.8 -3.9 -2 HDL n=331 n=119 n=216 n=234 n=230 Change from baseline 0.3 -0.4 0.5 0.8 1.2 Triglycerides n=331 n=120 n=216 n=236 n=231 Change from baseline -22.3 -18.3 -12.6 -10.6 -15.4 Proportion of Patients with Shifts Cholesterol Normal to High 2.6% 2.8% 5.6% 4.1% 3.1% (<200 mg/dL to ≥240 mg/dL) (5/194) (2/71) (7/125) (6/147) (4/130) LDL Normal to High 1.9% 0% 5% 3.7% 0% (<100 mg/dL to ≥160 mg/dL) (2/105) (0/44) (3/60) (3/81) (0/69) HDL Normal to Low 22% 16.3% 29.1% 23.4% 20% (≥40 mg/dL to <40 mg/dL) (44/200) (13/80) (39/134) (32/137) (27/135) Triglycerides Normal to High 5.3% 11% 8.8% 8.7% 4.3% (<150 mg/dL to ≥200 mg/dL) (11/208) (9/82) (12/136) (13/150) (6/139) In the uncontrolled, longer-term open-label extension studies, paliperidone was associated with a mean change in (a) total cholesterol of -1.5 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=573) and -1.5 mg/dL at Week 52 (n=317), (b) triglycerides of -6.4 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=573) and -10.5 mg/dL at Week 52 (n=317); (c) LDL of -1.9 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=557) and -2.7 mg/dL at Week 52 (n=297); and (d) HDL of +2.2 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=568) and +3.6 mg/dL at Week 52 (n=302). Data from the placebo-controlled 6-week study in adolescent subjects (12 to 17 years of age) with schizophrenia are presented in Table 2b. Table 2b. Change in Fasting Lipids from a Placebo-Controlled 6-Week Study in Adolescent Subjects (12 to 17 years of age) with Schizophrenia Paliperidone Placebo 1.5 mg/day 3 mg/day 6 mg/day 12 mg/day Mean change from baseline (mg/dL) Cholesterol n=39 n=45 n=11 n=28 n=32 Change from baseline -7.8 -3.3 12.7 3.0 -1.5 LDL n=37 n=40 n=9 n=27 n=31 Change from baseline -4.1 -3.1 7.2 2.4 0.6 HDL n=37 n=41 n=9 n=27 n=31 Change from baseline -1.9 0.0 1.3 1.4 0.0 Triglycerides n=39 n=44 n=11 n=28 n=32 Change from baseline -8.9 3.2 17.6 -5.4 3.9 Proportion of Patients with Shifts Cholesterol Normal to High 7% 4% 0% 6% 11% (<170 mg/dL to ≥200 mg/dL) (2/27) (1/26) (0/6) (1/18) (2/19) LDL Normal to High 3% 4% 14% 0% 9% (<110 mg/dL to ≥130 mg/dL) (1/32) (1/25) (1/7) (0/22) (2/22) HDL Normal to Low 14% 7% 29% 13% 23% (≥40 mg/dL to <40 mg/dL) (4/28) (2/30) (2/7) (3/23) (5/22) Triglycerides Normal to High 3% 5% 13% 8% 7% (<150 mg/dL to ≥200 mg/dL) (1/34) (2/38) (1/8) (2/26) (2/28) Weight Gain Weight gain has been observed with atypical antipsychotic use. Clinical monitoring of weight is recommended. Schizophrenia Trials Data on mean changes in body weight and the proportion of subjects meeting a weight gain criterion of ≥ 7% of body weight from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies in adult subjects are presented in Table 3a. Table 3a. Mean Change in Body Weight (kg) and the Proportion of Subjects with ≥ 7% Gain in Body Weight from Three Placebo-Controlled, 6-Week, Fixed-Dose Studies in Adult Subjects with Schizophrenia Paliperidone Placebo 3 mg/day 6 mg/day 9 mg/day 12 mg/day n=323 n=112 n=215 n=235 n=218 Weight (kg) Change from baseline -0.4 0.6 0.6 1 1.1 Weight Gain ≥ 7% increase from baseline 5% 7% 6% 9% 9% In the uncontrolled, longer-term open-label extension studies, paliperidone was associated with a mean change in weight of +1.4 kg at Week 24 (n=63) and +2.6 kg at Week 52 (n=302). Weight gain in adolescent subjects with schizophrenia was assessed in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study and an open-label extension with a median duration of exposure to paliperidone of 182 days. Data on mean changes in body weight and the proportion of subjects meeting a weight gain criterion of ≥ 7% of body weight [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] from the placebo-controlled 6-week study in adolescent subjects (12 to 17 years of age) are presented in Table 3b. Table 3b. Mean Change in Body Weight (kg) and the Proportion of Subjects with ≥ 7% Gain in Body Weight from a Placebo-Controlled 6-Week Study in Adolescent Subjects (12 to 17 years of age) with Schizophrenia Paliperidone Placebo 1.5 mg/day 3 mg/day 6 mg/day 12 mg/day n=51 n=54 n=16 n=45 n=34 Weight (kg) Change from baseline 0.0 0.3 0.8 1.2 1.5 Weight Gain ≥ 7% increase from baseline 2% 6% 19% 7% 18% In the open-label long-term study the proportion of total subjects treated with paliperidone with an increase in body weight of ≥ 7% from baseline was 33%. When treating adolescent patients with paliperidone, weight gain should be assessed against that expected with normal growth. When taking into consideration the median duration of exposure to paliperidone in the open-label study (182 days) along with expected normal growth in this population based on age and gender, an assessment of standardized scores relative to normative data provides a more clinically relevant measure of changes in weight. The mean change from open-label baseline to endpoint in standardized score for weight was 0.1 (4% above the median for normative data). Based on comparison to the normative data, these changes are not considered to be clinically significant. Schizoaffective Disorder Trials In the pooled data from the two placebo-controlled, 6-week studies in adult subjects with schizoaffective disorder, a higher percentage of paliperidone-treated subjects (5%) had an increase in body weight of ≥ 7% compared with placebo-treated subjects (1%). In the study that examined high- and low-dose groups, the increase in body weight of ≥ 7% was 3% in the low-dose group, 7% in the high-dose group, and 1% in the placebo group. 5.7 Hyperprolactinemia Like other drugs that antagonize dopamine D 2 receptors, paliperidone elevates prolactin levels and the elevation persists during chronic administration. Paliperidone has a prolactin-elevating effect similar to that seen with risperidone, a drug that is associated with higher levels of prolactin than other antipsychotic drugs. Hyperprolactinemia, regardless of etiology, may suppress hypothalamic GnRH, resulting in reduced pituitary gonadotrophin secretion. This, in turn, may inhibit reproductive function by impairing gonadal steroidogenesis in both female and male patients. Galactorrhea, amenorrhea, gynecomastia, and impotence have been reported in patients receiving prolactin-elevating compounds. Long-standing hyperprolactinemia when associated with hypogonadism may lead to decreased bone density in both female and male subjects. Tissue culture experiments indicate that approximately one-third of human breast cancers are prolactin dependent in vitro , a factor of potential importance if the prescription of these drugs is considered in a patient with previously detected breast cancer. An increase in the incidence of pituitary gland, mammary gland, and pancreatic islet cell neoplasia (mammary adenocarcinomas, pituitary and pancreatic adenomas) was observed in the risperidone carcinogenicity studies conducted in mice and rats [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. Neither clinical studies nor epidemiologic studies conducted to date have shown an association between chronic administration of this class of drugs and tumorigenesis in humans, but the available evidence is too limited to be conclusive. 5.8 Potential for Gastrointestinal Obstruction Because the paliperidone extended-release tablet is non-deformable and does not appreciably change in shape in the gastrointestinal tract, paliperidone should ordinarily not be administered to patients with pre-existing severe gastrointestinal narrowing (pathologic or iatrogenic, for example: esophageal motility disorders, small bowel inflammatory disease, “short gut” syndrome due to adhesions or decreased transit time, past history of peritonitis, cystic fibrosis, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, or Meckel’s diverticulum). There have been rare reports of obstructive symptoms in patients with known strictures in association with the ingestion of drugs in non-deformable controlled-release formulations. Because of the controlled-release design of the tablet, paliperidone should only be used in patients who are able to swallow the tablet whole [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Patient Counseling Information (17) ]. A decrease in transit time, e.g., as seen with diarrhea, would be expected to decrease bioavailability and an increase in transit time, e.g., as seen with gastrointestinal neuropathy, diabetic gastroparesis, or other causes, would be expected to increase bioavailability. These changes in bioavailability are more likely when the changes in transit time occur in the upper GI tract. 5.9 Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope Paliperidone can induce orthostatic hypotension and syncope in some patients because of its alpha-blocking activity. In pooled results of the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose trials in subjects with schizophrenia, syncope was reported in 0.8% (7/850) of subjects treated with paliperidone (3 mg, 6 mg, 9 mg, 12 mg) compared to 0.3% (1/355) of subjects treated with placebo. Paliperidone should be used with caution in patients with known cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure, history of myocardial infarction or ischemia, conduction abnormalities), cerebrovascular disease, or conditions that predispose the patient to hypotension (e.g., dehydration, hypovolemia, and treatment with antihypertensive medications). Monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered in patients who are vulnerable to hypotension. 5.10 Falls Somnolence, postural hypotension, motor and sensory instability have been reported with the use of antipsychotics, including paliperidone, which may lead to falls and, consequently, fractures or other fall-related injuries. For patients, particularly the elderly, with diseases, conditions, or medications that could exacerbate these effects, assess the risk of falls when initiating antipsychotic treatment and recurrently for patients on long-term antipsychotic therapy. 5.11 Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis In clinical trial and/or postmarketing experience, events of leukopenia/neutropenia have been reported temporally related to antipsychotic agents, including paliperidone. Agranulocytosis has also been reported. Possible risk factors for leukopenia/neutropenia include pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC)/absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and history of drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia. In patients with a history of a clinically significant low WBC/ANC or a drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia, perform a complete blood count (CBC) frequently during the first few months of therapy. In such patients, consider discontinuation of paliperidone at the first sign of a clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors. Monitor patients with clinically significant neutropenia for fever or other symptoms or signs of infection and treat promptly if such symptoms or signs occur. Discontinue paliperidone in patients with severe neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count < 1000/mm 3 ) and follow their WBC until recovery. 5.12 Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment Somnolence, sedation, and dizziness were reported as adverse reactions in subjects treated with paliperidone [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. Antipsychotics, including paliperidone, have the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Patients should be cautioned about performing activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating hazardous machinery or operating a motor vehicle, until they are reasonably certain that paliperidone therapy does not adversely affect them. 5.13 Seizures During premarketing clinical trials in subjects with schizophrenia (the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies and a study conducted in elderly schizophrenic subjects), seizures occurred in 0.22% of subjects treated with paliperidone (3 mg, 6 mg, 9 mg, 12 mg) and 0.25% of subjects treated with placebo. Like other antipsychotic drugs, paliperidone should be used cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or other conditions that potentially lower the seizure threshold. Conditions that lower the seizure threshold may be more prevalent in patients 65 years or older. 5.14 Dysphagia Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use. Aspiration pneumonia is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with advanced Alzheimer’s dementia. Paliperidone and other antipsychotic drugs should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration pneumonia. 5.15 Priapism Drugs with alpha-adrenergic blocking effects have been reported to induce priapism. Priapism has been reported with paliperidone during postmarketing surveillance. Severe priapism may require surgical intervention. 5.16 Body Temperature Regulation Disruption of the body’s ability to reduce core body temperature has been attributed to antipsychotic agents. Appropriate care is advised when prescribing paliperidone to patients who will be experiencing conditions which may contribute to an elevation in core body temperature, e.g., exercising strenuously, exposure to extreme heat, receiving concomitant medication with anticholinergic activity, or being subject to dehydration.
🔄 Drug Interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Centrally-acting drugs: Due to CNS effects, use caution in combination. Avoid alcohol. (7.1) Drugs that may cause orthostatic hypotension: An additive effect may be observed when co-administered with paliperidone. (7.1) Strong CYP3A4/P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inducers: It may be necessary to increase the dose of paliperidone when a strong inducer of both CYP3A4 and P-gp (e.g., carbamazepine) is co-administered. Conversely, on discontinuation of the strong inducer, it may be necessary to decrease the dose of paliperidone. (7.2) Co-administration of divalproex sodium increased C max and AUC of paliperidone by approximately 50%. Adjust dose of paliperidone if necessary based on clinical assessment. (7.2) 7.1 Potential for Paliperidone to Affect Other Drugs Given the primary CNS effects of paliperidone [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2) ] , paliperidone should be used with caution in combination with other centrally acting drugs and alcohol. Paliperidone may antagonize the effect of levodopa and other dopamine agonists. Because of its potential for inducing orthostatic hypotension, an additive effect may be observed when paliperidone is administered with other therapeutic agents that have this potential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ]. Paliperidone is not expected to cause clinically important pharmacokinetic interactions with drugs that are metabolized by cytochrome P450 isozymes. In vitro studies in human liver microsomes showed that paliperidone does not substantially inhibit the metabolism of drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 isozymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C8/9/10, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP3A4, and CYP3A5. Therefore, paliperidone is not expected to inhibit clearance of drugs that are metabolized by these metabolic pathways in a clinically relevant manner. Paliperidone is also not expected to have enzyme inducing properties. Paliperidone is a weak inhibitor of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) at high concentrations. No in vivo data are available and the clinical relevance is unknown. Pharmacokinetic interaction between lithium and paliperidone is unlikely. In a drug interaction study, co-administration of paliperidone (12 mg once daily for 5 days) with divalproex sodium extended-release tablets (500 mg to 2000 mg once daily) did not affect the steady-state pharmacokinetics (AUC 24h and C max,ss ) of valproate in 13 patients stabilized on valproate. In a clinical study, subjects on stable doses of valproate had comparable valproate average plasma concentrations when paliperidone 3 to 15 mg/day was added to their existing valproate treatment. 7.2 Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Paliperidone Paliperidone is not a substrate of CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19, so that an interaction with inhibitors or inducers of these isozymes is unlikely. While in vitro studies indicate that CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 may be minimally involved in paliperidone metabolism, in vivo studies do not show decreased elimination by these isozymes and they contribute to only a small fraction of total body clearance. In vitro studies have shown that paliperidone is a P-gp substrate. Co-administration of paliperidone 6 mg once daily with carbamazepine, a strong inducer of both CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein (P-gp), at 200 mg twice daily caused a decrease of approximately 37% in the mean steady-state C max and AUC of paliperidone. This decrease is caused, to a substantial degree, by a 35% increase in renal clearance of paliperidone. A minor decrease in the amount of drug excreted unchanged in the urine suggests that there was little effect on the CYP metabolism or bioavailability of paliperidone during carbamazepine co-administration. On initiation of carbamazepine, the dose of paliperidone should be re-evaluated and increased if necessary. Conversely, on discontinuation of carbamazepine, the dose of paliperidone should be re-evaluated and decreased if necessary. Paliperidone is metabolized to a limited extent by CYP2D6 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In an interaction study in healthy subjects in which a single 3 mg dose of paliperidone was administered concomitantly with 20 mg per day of paroxetine (a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor), paliperidone exposures were on average 16% (90% CI: 4, 30) higher in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers. Higher doses of paroxetine have not been studied. The clinical relevance is unknown. Co-administration of a single dose of paliperidone 12 mg with divalproex sodium extended-release tablets (two 500 mg tablets once daily) resulted in an increase of approximately 50% in the C max and AUC of paliperidone. Dosage reduction for paliperidone should be considered when paliperidone is co-administered with valproate after clinical assessment. Pharmacokinetic interaction between lithium and paliperidone is unlikely.
🚫 Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Paliperidone extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to either paliperidone or risperidone, or to any of the excipients in the paliperidone extended-release tablet formulation. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactic reactions and angioedema, have been reported in patients treated with risperidone and in patients treated with paliperidone. Paliperidone is a metabolite of risperidone. Known hypersensitivity to paliperidone, risperidone, or to any excipients in paliperidone. (4)
📦 Storage & Handling
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Paliperidone extended-release tablets, 1.5 mg , are supplied as brown, round, biconvex tablets, debossed “AN” over “80” on one side and plain on the other side. They are available as follows: Bottles of 30: NDC 42291-915-30 Paliperidone extended-release tablets, 3 mg , are supplied as white, round, biconvex tablets, debossed “AN” over “81” on one side and plain on the other side. They are available as follows: Bottles of 30: NDC 42291-916-30 Paliperidone extended-release tablets, 6 mg , are supplied as light beige, round, biconvex tablets, debossed “AN” over “82” on one side and plain on the other side. They are available as follows: Bottles of 30: NDC 42291-917-30 Paliperidone extended-release tablets, 9 mg , are supplied as pink, round, biconvex tablets, debossed “AN” over “83” on one side and plain on the other side. They are available as follows: Bottles of 30: NDC 42291-918-30 Storage and Handling Store at 20° to 25ºC (68° to 77ºF); excursions permitted between 15° to 30ºC (59° to 86ºF) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture. Keep out of reach of children.