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Half Year, Uh

09/02/2021

The FDA just approved Janssen's new version of antipsychotic paliperidone, Invega Hafyera, whose trade name (phonetically speaking?) reminds us of its claimed duration of action of six months. I would love to have witnessed the discussions over whether to use such a silly product name, hearing all the arguments for and against.

There's nothing funny about schizophrenia. For this drug to last half a year will increase its value to many, maybe even saving lives. Even those who suffer from the disorder have a sense of humor. I hope they all get a big chuckle out of this name.

Good on Janssen for having the courage to use this name.

Berry Edwards, MD