An alternative drug geared towards the maintenance treatment of schizophrenia has just been approved by the European Commission (EU).

Trevicta, a three-monthly injection penned by pharmaceutical company Janssen, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, is unique in its unusually long dosing intervals.

The drug works by allowing patients to manage an ‘optimal level’ of treatment in their blood with fewer, less frequent doses, in comparison with more traditional antipsychotic treatments.

Dr Andreas Schreiner, European Therapeutic Area Leader, Neuroscience and Pain at Janssen, said: “With fewer administrations per year compared to other approved treatments, Trevicta can give people with schizophrenia greater freedom to focus on other important aspects of their life and less on their treatment.

“This new option has the potential to reduce the likelihood of relapse and progression of the disease. It also helps healthcare professionals ensure the person with schizophrenia can benefit from continuous delivery of medication between administrations.”