Invega, also known by its generic name of paliperidone, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat acute cases of schizophrenia. It is not your typical antipsychotic medication, and, according to the experts at Drugs.com, how it works is not known. Before taking this medication, familiarize yourself with its side effects and discuss them with your doctor to ensure it is the right course of treatment for you.
Common Side Effects
These occur in 6 to 20 percent of patients who take Invega, and are considered the most common side effects you may experience. These include tachycardia (a rapid heart rate), drowsiness, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, headaches, weight gain and dizziness. Extrapyramidal symptoms may also occur and include feelings of restlessness, uncontrolled speech and involuntary movements.
Less-Common Side Effects
While still considered common side effects, these only tend to occur in 2 to 5 percent of those taking this medication. They include muscle pain or tension, tremors (uncontrollable shaking), dry mouth, blurred vision, fatigue, back pain, sore throat, an increase or decrease in appetite, the development of a cough, increased saliva production, stomach pain, general weakness, fever, constipation, upper respiratory tract infection and insomnia.
Serious Side Effects
Report these immediately to your doctor if you experience any of the following: Internal restlessness or feeling jittery, severe muscle tension or contractions and uncontrolled body movements (all signs of extrapyramidal syndrome). Additional serious side effects include a large weight gain, high blood pressure, dizziness or fainting spells upon standing, an erection that does not go away, frequent infections, anxiety, severe cases of constipation, breast enlargement or discharge you cannot explain, bruising or bleeding easily and difficulty swallowing.
Signs of Diabetes
Invega may also cause diabetes, considered a serious side effect. Signs of this condition include increased thirst and/or hunger, high blood sugar levels and frequent urination.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is another serious side effect caused by Invega. Signs of this include high fever, confusion, tachycardia (increased heart rate), an arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm), stiff muscles, an irregular pulse or blood pressure and profuse sweating.
Signs of Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you believe you have overdosed on Invega. Signs of overdose include rapid heart rate, fainting, feeling light-headed and uncontrolled muscle movement in your jaw, neck, tongue or eyes.
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