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Risperdal
  • Treatments
  • Schizophrenia

Risperdal

Generic name:risperidone (oral) [ ris-PER-i-done ]
Drug class:Atypical antipsychotics

Medically reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD. Last updated on Feb 21, 2022.

What is Risperdal?

Risperdal is an antipsychotic medicine that works by changing the effects of chemicals in the brain.

Risperdal is used to treat schizophrenia in adults and children who are at least 13 years old.

Risperdal is also used to treat symptoms of bipolar disorder (manic depression) in adults and children who are at least 10 years old.

Risperdal is also used to treat symptoms of irritability in autistic children who are 5 to 16 years old.

Warnings

Risperdal is not approved for use in older adults with dementia-related psychosis.

Do not give Risperdal to a child without a doctor's advice.

While you are taking this medicine, you may be more sensitive to temperature extremes such as very hot or cold conditions. Avoid getting too cold, or becoming overheated or dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather and during exercise. It is easier to become dangerously overheated and dehydrated while you are taking this medication.

Risperidone may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of risperidone.

Stop using Risperdal and call your doctor at once if you have fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, restless muscle movements in your face or neck, tremor (uncontrolled shaking), trouble swallowing, feeling light-headed, or fainting.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Risperdal if you are allergic to risperidone.

Risperidone may increase the risk...