| Brand Name: |
Risperdal |
| Generic Name: |
Risperidone |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Janssen-Cilag |
What is Risperdal?
Risperdal works by correcting the imbalance of chemical substances that act on the nervous system in the brain. The active ingredient risperidone is considered an atypical antipsychotic type of medication. Adults over 18 years of age may use it to treat certain mental or mood disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorders or mania. Children diagnosed with autism between the ages of 5 and 16 may also use the medication to treat irritability and aggression. Some people may also use the tablets in combination with other drugs to treat Alzheimer’s dementia and depression.
How is Risperdal used?
Risperdal should only be used as directed by a doctor, usually 1 to 2 times daily. The medication can be taken with or without food but should be taken with a glass of water. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the patient’s condition and their response to the therapy. Your health care provider may start you on a low dose and gradually increase the dosage to minimize the risk of side effects. Continue with the medication until the doctor instructs you to stop as abruptly stopping the treatment may cause symptoms to return and make the illness harder to treat.
Adverse effects
Patients using Risperdal may encounter 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 over 4 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. |
