Why is Risperdal prescribed?

Risperdal is used to treat psychotic disorders and symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and hostility.

Risperidone is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should Risperdal be used?

Risperdal comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken twice a day (every 12 hours). Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Risperidone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Continue to take Risperidone even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Risperdal without talking to your doctor, especially if you have taken large doses for a long time. Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually. Risperidone must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking Risperdal,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Risperdal or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially carbamazepine (Tegretol), clozapine (Clorazil), levodopa (Dopar, Sinemet), medications for high blood pressure, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney, or liver disease; angina, irregular heartbeat, or problems with your blood pressure; stroke; seizures; blood disorders; depression; or a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Risperdal, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Risperdal.
• you should know that Risperidone may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Risperidone.
• plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Risperdal may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Risperdal cause?

Side effects from Risperdal are common. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• drowsiness
• lightheadedness
• dizziness
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• constipation
• restlessness
• headache
• weight gain
• insomnia
• runny nose

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• tremor
• fine worm-like tongue movements
• unusual face, mouth, or jaw movements
• slow or difficult speech
• difficulty swallowing
• shuffling walk
• seizures or convulsions
• blurred vision
• fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
• fever
• skin rash
• yellowing of the skin or eyes

What storage conditions are needed for Risperdal?

Keep Risperidone in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to Risperdal. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.