Risperdal  -  Generic Name: risperidone

Brand Names: Risperdal, Risperdal M-Tab

What is Risperdal?

Risperdal is in the "atypical antipsychotic" family of antipsyochotic medication. It works by changing the effects of chemicals in the brain and is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder symptoms. It can also used in autistic children to treat irritability symptoms.

Risperdal is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Risperidone may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions.

Serious Risperdal side effects:

• tremor (uncontrolled shaking);

• fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;

• restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;

• trouble swallowing;

• feeling light-headed, fainting.

Less serious Risperdal side effects may include:

• weight gain;

• mild restlessness, drowsiness, or tremor;

• sleepiness, dreaming more than usual;

• blurred vision;

• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

• dizziness or headache;

• problems with urination;

• nausea, dry mouth, constipation;

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.  This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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

While you are taking Risperdal, 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. Risperdal can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of Risperdal. Stop using this medication 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.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect this medication. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.