Risperdal

Risperdal (Risperidone) can be used to treat a variety of conditions. It is widely used as a treatment for schizophrenia, and may also be prescribed to patients with bipolar disorder (manic depressive disorder), as a treatment for abnormal excitement (mania) or mixed episodes. In addition to this, certain patients with autism may be prescribed this drug, as a treatment for aggression, mood changes and other behavioral problems. This medicine belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics, and its method of action involves altering the activity of natural substances that occur in the brain.

The required dosage for Risperdal (Risperidone) depends on the condition that is being treated. Adults treating schizophrenia are often instructed to commence treatment with 1mg, taken twice per day. The prescribing physician may decide to increase the dosage, and if so, this will be done in increments consisting of 1mg, twice per day, with the adjustments taking place on days 2 and 3 of treatment. Generally, the maximum dose prescribed is 16mg per day. Other conditions may require different dosage regimens. Always follow the instructions of your physician.

Possible side effects which may be experienced by patients taking Risperdal (Risperidone) include:

• Anxiety
• Urination problems
• Unwanted breast milk production
• An increase in the amount of saliva
• Discoloration or dryness of the skin

If you experience fever, stiff muscles, a prolonged penis erection, tremors, seizures or any other symptoms indicative of a severe reaction, you should immediately seek medical attention.

This medicine is not used to treat older adults with dementia, as it may cause serious side effects if used by patients in this category.

Patients who have a history of a low white blood cell count, dementia, Parkinson`s disease, liver disease, kidney disease or seizures must tell their physician before taking this medicine.