Inpatient Setting | Scenario 2

LAI Considerations

• If diagnosed with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder (ie, schizophreniform disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia), consider a second-generation oral antipsychotic with existing LAI formulation
• First-episode patients are most at risk for nonadherence
  ^13,18
• Most first-episode patients will accept an LAI when this option is presented by emphasizing the value in relapse prevention as opposed to emphasizing the method of delivery (ie, “shot”)
  ¹²
• LAIs have been shown to reduce the rate of relapse in first-episode patients and would help clinicians assess whether a relapse occurs because of nonadherence or despite adequate medication
  ^14,19
• Repeated relapses may lead to treatment resistance, cognitive and functional impairment, and decreased quality of life
  ^20,21