Is used to treat several mental health conditions by helping to balance the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which stabilizes mood and behavior. It is commonly prescribed for schizophrenia, where it reduces symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. It is also effective in treating bipolar disorder, particularly for managing manic or mixed episodes, and is sometimes used to help maintain mood stability over time. In children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, risperidone is approved to manage severe irritability, including aggression, self-injury, and intense mood swings. Additionally, it may be prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as severe anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or Tourette syndrome, especially when other treatments have not been effective. These uses make risperidone a versatile medication in managing various psychiatric and behavioral conditions.
can cause a variety of side effects, ranging from mild to serious. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, weight gain, increased appetite, dry mouth, and restlessness or agitation (akathisia). Some individuals may also experience nausea, constipation, or mild muscle stiffness.
Serious side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), which are involuntary muscle movements, tremors, or rigidity, and tardive dyskinesia, which involves long-term, potentially irreversible involuntary movements, often of the face or tongue. Risperidone can also cause elevated prolactin levels, leading to symptoms like breast enlargement, milk production (even in individuals who are not breastfeeding), and menstrual irregularities. Metabolic changes, such as increased blood sugar, cholesterol, or triglycerides, may occur, increasing the risk of diabetes or cardiovascular issues. Rare but severe side effects include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a life-threatening condition with symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and irregular heartbeat.
If you experience any serious or unusual side effects, such as severe muscle stiffness, uncontrollable movements, or signs of a severe allergic reaction like swelling or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Always inform your healthcare provider of any side effects for proper management.
Comes with several important warnings and precautions. It should be used cautiously in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, as it can increase the risk of stroke and death. This medication is not approved for this use due to these safety concerns. Metabolic changes, such as weight gain, increased blood sugar, and elevated cholesterol or triglycerides, can occur, raising the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular problems, so regular monitoring is recommended, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. Risperidone may also cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), including tremors and muscle rigidity, and in rare cases, can lead to tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible condition causing involuntary movements.
Caution is advised when using risperidone in individuals with heart conditions, as it can cause low blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, or even sudden cardiac death in rare cases. It can also increase the risk of seizures in individuals with a history of epilepsy. Prolactin levels should be monitored, as elevated prolactin can lead to breast enlargement, lactation, or menstrual irregularities. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but serious condition, can occur, characterized by high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and irregular heartbeat, and requires immediate medical attention.
As risperidone can affect alertness and cause drowsiness, it is important to avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you know how the medication affects you. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting or discontinuing risperidone, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Can be serious and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe drowsiness, sedation, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure (hypotension), and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, an overdose may lead to uncontrollable muscle movements, seizures, or even coma. Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) such as tremors, muscle rigidity, and dystonia (muscle spasms) may also occur.
If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical help right away. Treatment may involve supportive care, including intravenous fluids and medications to stabilize heart rate and blood pressure, as well as monitoring for any complications. There is no specific antidote for a risperidone overdose, so medical professionals will focus on treating symptoms and preventing further harm