Simplify Your Routine with Long-Acting Injectable Medications

What Are Long-Acting Injectables?

Long-acting injectables (LAIs) are medications designed to be administered by a healthcare provider every few weeks or months—instead of taking daily pills. They’re commonly used in the treatment of mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.

These injectables slowly release medication into the body, maintaining steady therapeutic levels over time. This approach helps improve medication consistency and reduces the chance of missed doses—a common challenge with daily pills.

Benefits of Long-Acting Injectables

Many patients prefer long-acting injectables because they simplify treatment and improve outcomes. Some of the main benefits include:

• Better consistency: Eliminates the need to remember daily medication.
• Reduced relapse risk: Keeps symptoms under control by maintaining steady medication levels.
• Improved adherence is especially helpful for those who have difficulty staying on a daily schedule.
• Lower side effect variability: Fewer peaks and drops in medication levels mean fewer side effects for many patients.
• Convenience: Some injections last up to 1–3 months, offering more flexibility in daily life.

Common Long-Acting Injectables

At My Wellness Psychiatry, our providers may recommend long-acting injectables such as:

• Abilify Maintena and Abilify Asimtufi
• Aristada (aripiprazole lauroxil)
• Risperdal Consta (risperidone)
• Invega Sustenna and Uzedy (paliperidone formulations)
• Vivitrol (naltrexone) – often used for alcohol or opioid dependence
• Sublocade and Brixadi (buprenorphine formulations) – for opioid use disorder

Each medication has different dosing schedules and indications, and your provider will work with you to determine which is best suited to your specific needs.

Who Might Benefit from LAIs?

Long-acting injectables can be an excellent option for individuals who:

• Have trouble remembering daily medication
• Prefer fewer medication routines
• Experience frequent relapse due to missed doses
• Have responded well to a medication in pill form and want a longer-lasting version

They’re especially beneficial for patients managing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or substance use disorders, where medication consistency is key to stability.

The My Wellness Psychiatry Approach

At My Wellness Psychiatry, we believe in personalized care. Our providers discuss all available treatment options—including long-acting injectables—so patients can make informed decisions about their health. If you’re interested in learning whether a long-acting injectable could be right for you, contact My Wellness Psychiatry today. Together, we’ll find the treatment approach that best supports your mental wellness and lifestyle.