Hi everyone,
I’m currently on Xeplion (Invega/Paliperidone) 50mg (monthly depot) and I’m having a terrible time. I’m an ADHD student and a chess player, but since I started this medication, I feel like my brain has been "turned off."
My main issues with Xeplion:
• Cognitive death: I can’t do mental math/ calculate chess variants anymore. My working memory is gone.
• Avolition: I’m not self-sufficient. Even basic tasks feel like climbing Everest.
• Physical side effects: I’ve gained 20kg (44lbs) and I’m experiencing frequent urination/urgency and constipation.
• Emotional blunting: I feel like a ghost.
My psychiatrist is hesitant because he says Xeplion keeps me "stable," but my quality of life is zero. He will decide next Friday whether to switch me to Abilify Maintena (Aripiprazole) 400mg.
I have a few questions for those who made this specific switch or similar:
- Cognitive recovery: Did your "brain fog" clear up? Were you able to study or perform complex tasks (like chess or math) again?
- Energy levels: Did the "zombie feeling" disappear? How long did it take to feel "awake" again?
- The "Switch" process: Since Xeplion stays in the system for so long, how was the transition period? Did you feel "double-medicated" or did the Abilify kick in immediately?
- Side effects: Did you lose the weight gained on Invega? Did you experience Akathisia with Abilify?
- Urination and constipation: For those who had urinary urgency or constipation on Invega, did it resolve with Abilify?
I’m terrified that I’ll never be "normal" again or that my intelligence is permanently damaged. Any success stories (or honest warnings) would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.