Risperidone

Risperidone (Risperidone) belongs to a group of medicines known as atypical antipsychotics. It is used to treat social withdrawal, emotional problems, a lack of interest in life, hallucinations, hostile behaviour and other symptoms of schizophrenia. Other uses include treating episodes of mania in patients with bipolar disorder, and treating irritability and aggression in certain people with autism.

Risperidone (Risperidone) operates by blocking certain receptors in the brain, which in turn prevents excessive dopamine activity, and this may lead to an improvement in symptoms in patients affected by the conditions listed above.

Always use Risperidone (Risperidone) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated. Adult patients undergoing treatment for schizophrenia are often told to start treatment with a dose of 1mg, taken twice per day. The dosage may be increased by the prescribing doctor on the second day of treatment, and after that, adjustments may take place (at the discretion of your doctor) every week. Never take more than the amount your doctor prescribes to you.

Risperidone (Risperidone) may cause:

• Skin discolouration
• Breast milk production
• A reduced sexual ability
• Feeling anxious or restless
• Weight gain

If you experience any side effects, it may be necessary to tell your doctor. In rare cases, severe and potentially dangerous reactions may occur, which will require immediate medical care. Examples of this include a painful erection lasting for a prolonged period of time, difficulties walking properly, stiff muscles, fever, tremors and other serious reactions that have not been mentioned here.

If older adults who suffer from dementia take this drug, there may be a slight increase in the risk of severe side effects. Therefore, it is generally not used to treat patients in this category.

You should inform your doctor (prior to commencing treatment) if you have a history of any diseases affecting the liver or kidneys, seizures, problems swallowing, a low white blood cell count or Parkinson`s disease.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.