Risperdal is used for treating schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It is used to treat irritability caused by autistic disorder. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
How to use
Use Risperdal as directed by your doctor.
Take Risperdal by mouth with or without food.
Taking Risperdal at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
Continue to take Risperdal even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Risperdal. Drug Class and Mechanism
Risperdal is an atypical antipsychotic. It works by affecting certain substances in the brain.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Risperdal , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Store Risperdal at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Risperdal out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Warnings/Precautions
Do not use Risperdal if:
you are allergic to any ingredient in Risperdal.
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Some medical conditions may interact with Risperdal . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
if you have a history of seizures, heart problems (eg, heart failure, slow or irregular heartbeat), abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), heart attack, stroke, blood vessel problems, or high or low blood pressure
if you have a history of kidney or liver problems, stomach or bowel problems (eg, narrowing, blockage), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), suicidal thoughts or attempts, or alcohol abuse or dependence
if you have diabetes or are very overweight, or if a family member has had diabetes
if you have Alzheimer disease, dementia, Parkinson disease, or esophagus problems (eg, trouble swallowing)
if you have had high blood prolactin levels or a history of certain types of cancer (eg, breast, pancreas, pituitary, brain), or if you are at risk for breast cancer
if you are dehydrated, drink alcohol, or will be exposed to very high or very low temperatures
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Risperdal . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Alpha-blockers (eg, doxazosin) or medicine for high blood pressure because the risk of low blood pressure and fainting may be increased
Anticholinergics (eg, scopolamine) because the risk of overheating may be increased
Clozapine or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (eg, fluoxetine, paroxetine) because it may increase the risk of Risperdal 's side effects
Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, or rifampin because they may decrease Risperdal 's effectiveness
Dopamine receptor agonists (eg, pramipexole) or levodopa because their effectiveness may be decreased by Risperdal
Possible Side Effects
Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:
Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:
severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; trouble breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody or black, tarry stools; change in the amount of urine produced; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; depression; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; mental or mood changes; numbness of an arm or leg; one-sided weakness; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; ringing in the ears; seizures; severe headache or dizziness; severe or persistent stomach pain or nausea; severe vomiting; shortness of breath; sudden or unexplained weight gain; swelling of hands, legs, or feet; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual joint or muscle pain; unusual tiredness or weakness; vision or speech changes; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; yellowing of the skin or eyes.
More Information
Risperdal is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
