About risperidone
Second-generation antipsychotic
Used for
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar mania
- Irritability associated with autism
Usual adult dose
Schizophrenia: usually 2 mg daily initially, adjusted to 2–6 mg daily. Bipolar mania: usually 2–3 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
For schizophrenia from age 13: usually 0.5 mg daily initially, adjusted to 1–3 mg daily. For autism-related irritability ages 5–16: weight-based dosing, usually 0.5–3 mg daily.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, or restlessness
- Weight gain and increased appetite
- Movement problems, including tremor or stiffness
- Raised blood sugar or prolactin
Important warnings
- Can cause drowsiness and impair alertness.
- May increase stroke and death risk in older adults with dementia-related psychosis.
- Seek urgent care for high fever, severe stiffness, confusion, or fainting.
- May cause involuntary movements, especially after long-term use.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when clearly needed; exposure near delivery may cause newborn movement or withdrawal symptoms.
Breastfeeding
Risperidone passes into breast milk and may affect the infant; discuss risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- Other sedatives can increase drowsiness.
- Medicines that lower blood pressure may increase dizziness or fainting.
- Fluoxetine and paroxetine can raise risperidone levels.
- Carbamazepine can lower risperidone levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.