Most Schizophrenia Patients Open to Bimonthly Injections
A survey across five countries found patients prefer a long-acting antipsychotic given once every two months over daily oral pills.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Autism
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A survey of 212 patients with schizophrenia in Canada, the United States, France, Germany and Italy found that a majority were willing to try a long-acting injectable antipsychotic administered once every two months. In a discrete choice experiment, 51.4% of respondents most preferred that option, compared with 29.2% who preferred daily oral tablets.
Why it matters
Poor adherence to oral antipsychotics is common in schizophrenia, and long-acting medications have been associated with better adherence and fewer relapses. The findings suggest patient preference may favor less frequent dosing, which could inform how such treatments are offered.
In a survey of 212 patients (mean age 41.9 years, 53.3% women), 51.4% of the 190 participants in the discrete choice experiment most preferred a once-every-2-months injection, compared with 29.2% who preferred daily oral tablets. Whether these stated preferences predict real-world treatment uptake remains unestablished by the study.
The details
Participants completed a 35-question online survey, and a subset completed a discrete choice experiment assessing treatment preferences. Treatment effectiveness and a reduction in hospital admissions were among the most important factors shaping preference, and participants showed a general preference for less frequent administration.
Timeline
Study published in 2026 in Patient Preferences and Adherence, volume 20.
Health Landscape
The findings extend the body of adherence research in schizophrenia, where long-acting injectable formulations have already been linked to improved adherence and reduced relapse rates. Preference data of this kind adds a patient-side perspective to that clinical evidence base.
Patients who struggle with daily oral medication may find that less frequent injections align better with their preferences, though availability and coverage will determine access. Clinicians discussing treatment options may use patient preference data to frame conversations about dosing schedules.
The takeaway
Patient preference is a meaningful factor in long-term schizophrenia treatment, and dosing frequency appears to matter to many people living with the condition. Treatment plans that account for how and how often medication is taken may support better adherence.
Further reading
For broader context on related neurodevelopmental and mental health research, explore our Autism coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Psychiatry Advisor.
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Would you be willing to take a treatment injected only once every two months?
