Individuals with psychotic disorders could receive long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIAs) at pharmacies in the community, according to a survey of community pharmacists and psychiatric clinicians that was published in Psychiatric Services.Why It’s Relevant
LAIAs have been shown to improve adherence to treatment, a key predictor of long-term outcomes among individuals with serious mental illness. Use of LAIAs has been linked to reduced hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and suicide attempts . Yet LAIAs stubbornly remain underutilized in routine clinical practice.
By the Numbers
- The researchers surveyed 46 pharmacists, 11 pharmacy technicians, and 32 clinicians across Washington state on their perceptions on providing LAIAs at community pharmacies.
- Pharmacists’ average scores were 4.98 (out of 6) for acceptability, 4.34 (out of 6) for feasibility, and 3.91 (out of 5) for appropriateness; pharmacy technicians’ average scores were 5.43, 4.28, and 3.90.
- Clinicians’ scores were 4.20 (out of 5) for acceptability, 4.01 (out of 5) for appropriateness, and 3.92 (out of 5) for feasibility.
- There were differences in some feasibility scenarios: Clinicians were more likely to think that walk-in LAIA appointments were feasible, whereas pharmacy staff were more comfortable if all LAIAs were pre-filled.
The Other Side
The limited sample size and geography may have limited the generalizability of the findings. The scope of practice and expectations of pharmacist-provided services in Washington state may differ from those in other U.S. regions.
Takeaway Message
“Expanding LAIA access through community pharmacies may improve treatment continuity and reach underserved populations, but thoughtful planning and implementation are essential to ensure successful integration into patient care,” the researchers wrote. “Future studies should include a larger and more generalizable sample and incorporate implementation research to help identify which strategies can most successfully scale up and sustain LAIA services in the community pharmacy setting.”
Related Information
Source
Clayton English, et. al. Acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of administering long-acting injectable antipsychotics in community pharmacies. Psychiatric Services. Published February 4. 2026. doi: doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.2025026
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