Risperdal (Risperidone)

What is Risperdal?

Risperdal (risperidone) is an antipsychotic medicine that belongs to the chemical class of benzisoxazole derivatives.

What is Risperdal used for?

Risperdal is indicated for the treatment of symptoms of psychotic conditions like bipolar disorder (manic depression), schizophrenia and irritability associated with autistic disorder.

How does Risperdal work?

Risperdal works by restoring the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

How to use Risperdal

Risperdal should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The medicine can be taken with or without food. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. If you are taking the medicine in liquid form, do not measure the dose with a regular tablespoon or teaspoon. Measure the dose with a special dose-measuring device only.

Before using the orally disintegrating tablets or Risperdal M-Tabs, wash and dry your hands. Place the tablet on the tongue and it will soon begin to dissolve. Do not chew the tablet. Allow it to dissolve in the mouth. You may drink liquid after the tablet dissolves completely.

Risperdal warnings and precautions

Do not take Risperdal in dementia-related psychotic conditions or if you are allergic to risperidone. 

Prior to taking Risperdal, tell your doctor if you have phenylketonuria  or PKU (in case you are taking orally disintegrating tablets), high blood pressure, heart disease, heart rhythm disorder, kidney or liver disease, epilepsy, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, swallowing trouble; or a history of low WBC (white blood cell) counts, breast cancer, suicidal thoughts, stroke or heart attack.  

While using Risperdal avoid drinking alcohol or performing activities that require alertness. Avoid becoming dehydrated or overheated. Also avoid getting too cold.

Pregnant and lactating women should not use this drug without consulting their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Risperdal dose?

If you have missed your Risperdal dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next (scheduled) dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Risperdal overdose?

If you have taken a Risperdal overdose you should seek medical attention.

Risperdal interactions

Before taking Risperdal, consult your doctor if you take phenobarbital (Solfoton, Luminal); carbamazepine (Tegretol, Carbatrol); paroxetine (Paxil), fluoxetine (Prozac); phenytoin (Dilantin); rifampin (Rimactane, Rifadin, Rifater); clozapine (Clozaril); or medicines indicated for the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease such as bromocriptine (Parlodel), levodopa (Sinemet, Larodopa, Dopar, Atamet), pramipexole (Mirapex), pergolide (Permax), or ropinirole (Requip).

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use, especially those that make you sleepy (for example, some cold and cough medications). Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Risperdal side effects

Risperdal side effects include hives, fever, chills, uneven heart rate, stiff muscles, confusion, increased sweating, tremors, swallowing trouble, body ache, sores in mouth or on lips, breathing trouble, restless muscle movements in eyes, neck, tongue or jaw; swelling of face, hands, feet, tongue, lips or throat and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Risperdal, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor.

Dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, mild restlessness, weight gain, constipation, blurred vision, urination problems, headache, increased sleepiness, dry mouth, impotence, decreased sex drive, or difficulty having an orgasm are some less serious side effects of Risperdal.