Patients' experiences of long-acting injectable antipsychotics: a qualitative study

Background: In this study, we applied a qualitative approach to explore patients' subjective experiences of long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs). Methods: Patients undergoing psychiatric treatment from the chronic ward or outpatient department of a medical center in northern Taiwan who had experience with LAI treatment were enrolled. Information was obtained through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded and then translated verbatim, and the data were collected and analyzed concurrently to develop major themes and categories. Result: In total, 14 participants (8 female) were interviewed. In a bio-psycho-social model, the participants used LAIs as a method to become "normal," in order to achieve a balance between the "effects" and "side effects" that may influence their daily lives. Their past experiences constructed their concepts about and expectations regarding LAIs, and their relationships with their family members and co-workers also modeled their experiences. Conclusion: In our study, we sought to understand the experience of LAI in the daily life context of the patients. We attempted to use a bio-psycho-social model to evaluate the subjective experience of the patients; an improved understanding can help mental health specialists gain a closer insight into patient experience.