Systematic review of long-acting injectable antipsychotic medications approved from 2008 to october 2024 and agents in phase 3

Objective The purpose of this systematic review is to provide a detailed summary of the long-acting injectable antipsychotic medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2008 to October 2024. We aim to provide an overview of the mechanism of action, indications for both labeled and off-label uses, evidence for efficacy, dosing, and the adverse effects of each drug. Methods Studies published from 2008 to October 1, 2024, were identified from the PubMed database, using the keywords: ‘long-acting injectables’ OR ‘LAI*’AND ‘psychopharm*” OR ‘schizophrenia’ The authors conducted a focused analysis independently and reached a consensus on the recently approved long-acting injectable antipsychotic medications to be included in this systematic review. Key findings were derived from the full text in order to create the tables from selected studies. Results A total of 13 long-acting injectable antipsychotic medications for the treatment of schizophrenia were FDA-approved between 2008 and October 1, 2024. One long-acting injectable antipsychotic is currently being investigated in a Phase 3 clinical trial. The indications, evidence, practical implementation issues, and adverse effects of each drug are discussed in this review. Conclusion Improved understanding of newly approved long-acting injectables is critical in the management of patients with schizophrenia. The FDA approval of long-acting injectables in the past 15 years creates hopeful options for clinicians to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for their patients.