Effects of aripiprazole long-acting two-injection start in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia in Huelva (Spain)

INTRODUCTION: Improving outcomes in schizophrenia generally involves an improvement in drug adherence. Aripiprazole two-injection start (TIS) is the newest option of available on the market, with limited data on its effects. OBJECTIVES: It was our goal to evaluate whether TIS has an effect on hospitalization rates, persistence and adverse events in patients with schizophrenia. METHODS: This 12-months cross-sectional study included 32 patients suffering from schizophrenia (mean age 33.6 years; 22 males). We collected sociodemographic data on all individuals, hospitalization rates, persistence, use of neuroleptic drugs as well as adverse events. RESULTS: Before starting TIS, the mean in terms of number of hospitalizations was 5.6, emergency department visits 8.7 and hospitalization days 12. After TIS, hospitalization rates was 22%, persistence 81%, adverse events were present in 3% of the patients and only 9% needed concomitant treatment with neuroleptic drugs. CONCLUSIONS: The findings imply that TIS should be considered a first-line treatment choice for schizophrenic patients. It results in a decrease in the use of hospital services, which might ease the socioeconomic healthcare burden. DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST: None Declared