| Brand Name: |
Risperdal |
| Generic Name: |
Risperidone |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Janssen-Cilag |
*Please note: The product is manufactured in Turkey and is only available with Turkish language packaging.
What is Risperdal?
Risperdal works by correcting the imbalance of chemical substances which act on the nervous system in the brain. The active ingredient risperidone is considered an atypical antipsychotics type of medication. It is used to treat certain mental or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in adults over 18 years of age. It can also be used to treat aggression and irritability in autistic children between 5 and 16 years of age. Some people may use the medication in combination with other drugs to treat depression and Alzheimer’s dementia.
How is Risperdal used?
Risperdal should be taken as directed by a doctor, usually once or twice daily. The tablets can be taken with or without food but should be taken with some fluids. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage as it will depend on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication. The doctor may start the patient with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage to reduce the risk of side effects. Do not discontinue the medication without contacting a doctor as abruptly stopping the treatment can cause the symptoms to return and make the illness harder to treat.
Adverse effects
Risperdal may cause unwanted side effects such as:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:
- Painful erection that lasts for hours
- Irregular heartbeat
- Confusion
- Signs of infection
- Seizures
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Warnings
The medication may cause a slightly increased risk of side effects when used by older adults with dementia.
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Risperdal is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
