LAI Antipsychotics: What They Are, Who Uses Them, and What You Need to Know

When someone needs to take an antipsychotic but struggles with daily pills, LAI antipsychotics, long-acting injectable versions of antipsychotic drugs that release medication slowly over weeks. Also known as depot injections, they help people stay on track without remembering to take a pill every day. These aren’t new, but they’ve become a go-to for doctors managing schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and sometimes severe psychosis when adherence is a problem.

LAI antipsychotics work by trapping the drug in muscle tissue, then releasing it gradually into the bloodstream. That means one shot can last 2 weeks, 4 weeks, or even up to 3 months—depending on the type. Common ones include risperidone, a long-acting injectable used for schizophrenia and irritability in autism, paliperidone, the active metabolite of risperidone, often given monthly, and aripiprazole, a once-monthly option with fewer metabolic side effects. Unlike pills, which can be skipped or forgotten, these shots ensure steady drug levels. That’s why they’re often chosen for people who’ve been hospitalized multiple times or who’ve had relapses from missed doses.

They’re not for everyone. Some people hate needles. Others worry about side effects like weight gain, movement problems, or sedation—same risks as oral versions, just harder to stop quickly. And you can’t adjust the dose mid-month. But for many, the trade-off is worth it: fewer hospital visits, less stress about remembering meds, and more stability. It’s not a cure, but it’s a tool that changes how treatment works in real life.

You’ll find posts here that compare these injections to pills, explain how they’re given, and break down which ones work best for different people. There are also guides on managing side effects, how insurance covers them, and what to expect when switching from oral meds. If you or someone you know is considering LAI antipsychotics, this collection gives you the real-world details—not just the clinical jargon.