Masterclass: LAIs in Practice: Selecting, Starting, and Sustaining Treatment in Schizophrenia

Incomplete adherence to daily oral antipsychotics remains a leading driver of relapse, rehospitalization, and functional decline in schizophrenia, yet long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics remain substantially underutilized despite growing evidence supporting their earlier use. This session will examine the evidence for LAIs versus oral therapy across relapse, rehospitalization, and mortality outcomes, and differentiate FDA-approved formulations by pharmacologic characteristics, dosing intervals, and initiation and administration requirements to guide individualized treatment selection. Faculty will also address clinician- and patient-related barriers to LAI use through practical, patient-centered communication strategies that support shared decision-making. Physician associates and allied clinicians will leave equipped to recognize appropriate LAI candidates and confidently integrate these therapies into schizophrenia care. Supported by independent educational grant from Teva Pharmaceuticals, USA, Inc.