MedDataToolRisperidone is a medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. It works by helping to balance certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and behavior. The medication is usually taken as a tablet, starting at a dose of 2 mg per day for adults, which can be increased to a maximum of 16 mg per day, depending on how well it is tolerated. It's important to know that risperidone is not recommended for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to an increased risk of serious side effects. Additionally, if you are taking medications that speed up the breakdown of risperidone, like carbamazepine, your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
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Uses
- Schizophrenia.
- Acute manic or mixed episodes in Bipolar I Disorder.
- Irritability associated with autistic disorder.
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Dosage
Adults with schizophrenia: start at 2 mg, target 4–8 mg daily.
Adolescents with schizophrenia: start at 0.5 mg, target 3 mg daily.
Adults with bipolar mania: start at 2–3 mg, target 1–6 mg daily.
Children with bipolar mania: start at 0.5 mg, target 1–2.5 mg daily.
Children with irritability from autism: start at 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg, target 0.5–3 mg daily.
For severe kidney or liver issues: start at 0.5 mg twice daily.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
dizzinesssedationnauseavomitingincreased appetiteweight gainincreased mortality in elderly with dementia
Serious
stroke risktardive dyskinesia
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
- Not approved for dementia-related psychosis.
- May cause metabolic changes like weight gain and diabetes.
- Risk of seizures and cognitive impairment.
- Monitor for orthostatic hypotension and falls.
- Use caution with alcohol and other CNS depressants.
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Drug interactions
- Carbamazepinemay decrease risperidone levelsCaution
- Fluoxetinemay increase risperidone levelsCaution
- Paroxetinemay increase risperidone levelsCaution
- Methylphenidatemay increase risk of extrapyramidal symptomsCaution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).