I had my first psychotic episode in March

for about two weeks and then I went to the hospital for ten days, my symptoms went away after about a week. I have been on Invega injection since then. My doctor says I should stay on invega for at least 18 months but it takes all my energy and motivation away and for some strange reason I love to smoke cigarettes when I’m on this medication. I just got a new job but I’m afraid of losing it because I’m very unmotivated and slow. Did anyone have a similar reaction to this medication?

I just received another injection today.

First off,

Welcome.

If you find yourself in need of help, just tag a moderator. Type the @ symbol, then our names

@DearZombie , @Ninjastar , @Moonbeam, and @rogueone

Enjoy your stay with us!

Now, to answer your question- I was on Invega for about 2 years. I became slow, unmotivated, and apathetic. A lot of people experience that. Some do not. If you really cannot tolerate the side effects and can’t make yourself do anything, insist on a med change. You have every right to change meds.

I am currently on Aristada 440 mg injectoon every 4 weeks. I feel much better. My emotions came bacl and I can make myself do stuff. Aristada is very similar to Abilify, it’s tweaked for schizophrenia and schizoaffective.

Wishing you a lot of luck!

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Thanks for sharing your experience and your welcome message.

like @anon4362788 said, you can request a med change…I was on a med that made me have horrible side effects…now I’m on a med that really helps me…generic prolixin…(fluphenazine) good luck and welcome to the forum !!

Yeah AP’s have me fiendin for nicotine too. Also welcome!

Welcome! I tend to smoke after my psychosis and I do a while then quit when I’m straightening out. I think it’s anxiety for me causing me to smoke.