Antipsychotics

Explains what antipsychotics are used for, how the medication works, possible side effects and information about withdrawal.

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What is a depot injection?

A depot injection is a slow-release form of antipsychotic medication. It's the same medication as the antipsychotic that comes in tablet or liquid form. But it is given as an injection in a liquid that releases it slowly, so it lasts a lot longer.

Why might I choose a depot injection?

A depot injection might be a good option for you if:

you find it difficult to swallow medication
you find it difficult remembering to take medication regularly
you prefer not to have to think about taking medication every day.

You may also be given a depot injection if the healthcare professionals involved in your care agree that you need the drug, but think you may struggle to take it regularly in a different form.

But you will usually only be offered a depot injection if:

you've already been on your medication for a while
you know it's working well for you, and
you expect to keep taking it for a long time.

Not all antipsychotics are available as depot injections. See our antipsychotics A-Z or our page on comparing antipsychotics for information about the different forms available for each drug.

How are depot injections given?

Injections are usually given every two, three or four weeks, depending on the drug. Certain antipsychotics may last for longer periods when given as a depot injection.
Your injection will usually be given by a healthcare professional in a community setting. For example, this may be in a clinic, medical centre or in your own home. You will not be given a depot injection to use at home on yourself.
The injection is made into a large muscle. This is usually either your buttock or the largest muscle of your shoulder. It's a good idea to alternate between different muscles and sides of your body. This is to help prevent any injection site problems.

Injection site problems

If you regularly have your injection in the same place in your body, you may start to experience problems with that part of your body. This may include:

abscess (a painful collection of pus)
bleeding
bruising
irritation
lumps
numbness
pain
redness
soreness
swelling.

If you have problems with your injection site, make sure you mention this to your doctor, nurse or whoever gives your injection.

Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

If you have depot injections, you may not pick up your own prescription for your medication. This may mean you are not given the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) which usually comes in the drug packet.

It's always a good idea to read the PIL carefully before taking any medication. So if you aren't given it you can ask for a copy from the person who gives the injection, or your doctor or pharmacist. Or you can see our antipsychotics A-Z for links to PILs for the different forms of antipsychotics, including depot injections.