risperidone

What is Risperdal?

Risperdal is a psychotropic medication. Risperdal is the first and only prescription medication approved for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder in children and adolescents (ages 5-16 years). When medication is appropriate, Risperdal has been shown to reduce behavioral problems, such as aggression, self-injury, tantrums, and quickly changing moods.

In adults, Risperdal is used for the short-term (3-week) treatment of Bipolar Mania in acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Additionally, Risperdal is used for the treatment of schizophrenia.

Side effects

The following side effects occurred most frequently in clinical trials using Risperdal and are less serious:

• mild restlessness, drowsiness, or tremor;
• sleepiness, dreaming more than usual;
• blurred vision;
• dizziness or headache;
• weight gain;
• problems with urination;
• nausea, dry mouth, constipation; or
• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Risperdal and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;
• restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;
• tremor (uncontrolled shaking);
• trouble swallowing; or
• feeling light-headed, fainting.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

Precautions

Before taking this medicine, notify your doctor if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies to medications.

Before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you have a history of: liver disease, kidney disease, low blood pressure, seizures, difficulty swallowing (especially in patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease), stroke, dehydration, breast cancer, diabetes.

Inform your doctor of all the medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), including vitamins and herbs.

Many cough-and-cold products contain ingredients that may add a drowsiness effect. Before you use cough-and-cold medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of those products.

Alcoholic beverages can increase the effects of this medicine and should be avoided.

Be cautious when driving or performing other hazardous activities. This medicine can impair judgment.

This medication contains aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition where you must restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalamine), consult with your doctor before taking this medicine.

There may be a slightly increased risk of serious side effects (e.g., stroke, heart failure) when this medicaion is used in elderly patients with dementia. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

Pregnancy and Nursing

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Since this medicine is excreted in human breast milk, you should NOT breastfeed while taking this medicine.

Proper storage

Risperdal should be stored at a controlled room temperature (59°F-77°F/55°C-15°C), out of reach of children, and away from light and moisture. Risperdal Oral Solution should also be protected from freezing temperatures.