Neuroleptics depot preparations

Ininiiniiscular and subcutaneous injections. Drugs in aqueous solution arc usually absorbed fairly rapidly, but absmption can be slowed by giving the drug in the form of an e.ster(e.g. neuroleptic depot preparations. Chapter 27). 

Knudsen P. Chemotherapy with neuroleptics. Clinical and pharmacokinetic aspects with a particular view to depot preparations. Acta Psychiatr Scand Supp11985 322(72) 51-75. 

Advantages are that the route is reliable, suitable for irritant dmgs, and depot preparations (neuroleptics, hormonal contraceptives) can be used at monthly or longer intervals. Absorption is more rapid than following subcutaneous injection (soluble preparations are absorbed within 10-30 min). 

Among the difficulties in pharmacological treatment is the frequent non-compliance. The biggest determinant of compliance is the quality of a patient s relationship with his doctor. But a further way to handle the issue has involved the development of long acting products (depot neuroleptics), even though their effectiveness in the absolute or compared to oral preparations has not been adequately explored. The most commonly used depot agents are fluphenazine and haloperidol decanoate (see David et al., 2004). 

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