Emirates Health Services Launches Six-Month Schizophrenia Drug in UAE

Emirates Health Services (EHS) announced that BYANNLI, a long‑acting injectable for schizophrenia developed by Johnson & Johnson, is now available at Al Amal Psychiatric Hospital, making the facility the first government hospital in the United Arab Emirates to offer a six‑monthly therapy.

EHS officials said the drug, administered once every six months, is intended to improve treatment continuity, reduce relapse risk and support more sustainable patient care, aligning with UAE goals to advance mental‑health services and efficient use of health resources. Dr. Essam Al Zarooni called the step “a significant leap forward in the advancement of mental healthcare,” and Dr. Noor Almheiri highlighted that BYANNLI “makes a valuable addition to the mental health ecosystem.”