Long-acting risperidone: a review of its role in the treatment of bipolar disorder

Adv Ther. 2009 Jun;26(6):588-99. doi: 10.1007/s12325-009-0039-0. Epub 2009 Jun 26.

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a multidimensional illness typified by fluctuating periods of depression and mania, cognitive dysfunction, abnormal circadian rhythms, and multiple comorbid psychiatric and general medical conditions. Indefinite pharmacological treatment is often required, yet the modest effects of available treatments and frequent difficulties with tolerability and adherence present complex challenges to patients. Long-acting injectable medications offer a therapeutic alternative to oral mood stabilizers and may help facilitate long-term treatment adherence. This article will provide a succinct review of the latest data on the use of long-acting injectable risperidone (LAR) during the maintenance-phase treatment of bipolar disorder. The specific role of LAR in comparison to other atypical antipsychotics, and the limitations of available studies will be discussed from the perspectives of efficacy, tolerability, and sequential positioning in treatment guidelines.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antipsychotic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / pharmacokinetics*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Risperidone / administration & dosage*
  • Risperidone / pharmacokinetics
  • Risperidone / pharmacology

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Risperidone