Expanding the Role of Long-Acting Injectables in Optimizing Schizophrenia Management

This activity was originally presented as a part of Psychiatry Pharmacy Day of Education 2025.

Program Description

Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by disturbances in thought, cognition, and behavior, which can significantly decrease an individual’s quality of life. The cornerstone of treatment for schizophrenia is oral antipsychotics, which aim to reduce symptoms, improve function, and maximize quality of life. Nonadherence to oral antipsychotics is a major issue and is the most significant risk factor for relapse of psychosis and mania. Long-acting injectable (LAI) formulations of antipsychotics offer potential benefits in improving treatment adherence, preventing relapses, and achieving more stable plasma drug levels, which not only improves clinical outcomes but also reduces the burden on caregivers. Despite these benefits, LAIs are still underutilized by clinicians' perceptions, patients’ fears of needles, and access challenges. Pharmacists can play a vital role in educating patients and other health care providers by explaining the benefits of LAIs, dispelling any misconceptions, and developing strategies to overcome barriers to access. This activity will provide an overview of schizophrenia, the differences between the available LAIs, and the pharmacist’s role in increasing adoption of LAIs to improve patient outcomes. With a deeper understanding of these treatments, pharmacists will be better equipped to support their use, thus improving adherence and clinical outcomes for patients with schizophrenia.

Target audience: Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, Health System Pharmacist

Type of activity: Application
Release date: July 22, 2025
Expiration date: July 22, 2026

Time to complete activity: 1.5 hours

Learner level: Foundational, Intermediate
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Investigate the quality of life burden of schizophrenia and the unmet clinical need

2. Differentiate current and emerging long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics for the management of schizophrenia

3. Identify the role of the pharmacist in optimizing the appropriate use of LAI antipsychotics for patients living with schizophrenia