{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Taiwan Expert Consensus Recommendations for Switching to Aripiprazole Long-Acting Once-Monthly in Patients with Schizophrenia.
{Author}: Liang CS;Su TP;Hsieh MH;Lee CS;Kuo J;Chiu NY;Chen PS;Yen YC;Bai YM;
{Journal}: J Pers Med
{Volume}: 11
{Issue}: 11
{Year}: Nov 2021 13
{Factor}: 3.508
{DOI}: 10.3390/jpm11111198
{Abstract}: In the last decade, long-acting injectable antipsychotics has been widely used in schizophrenia. Aripiprazole long-acting once-monthly (AOM) is the only long-acting dopamine partial agonist antipsychotic approved for schizophrenia; however, a literature search revealed no guidance on safely switching from oral and long-acting injectable antipsychotics to AOM. This study aimed to develop recommendations of AOM use based on existing data and expert consensus. A committee of 30 experts in psychopharmacology from major hospitals across Taiwan was invited. A modified Delphi method was conducted, consisting of two rounds of questionnaires, literature review, three rounds of face-to-face discussion meeting, and two rounds of anonymous voting. The consensus recommendations were developed based on existing data, clinical experiences, and consensus opinions, with 80% agreement among panel members required for final adoption. The panel developed nine consensus statements of switching to AOM for both acute and stable schizophrenia patients receiving oral or long-acting injectable atypical antipsychotics. Recommendations regarding dose adjustment of oral medication and pregnancy/breastfeeding were also included. The nine consensus recommendations provide a guidance on safely switching to AOM. Substantial gaps in knowledge, and more research is necessary.