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Risperdal (Risperidone) Drug Information
People with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or autism may benefit from the prescription medication Risperdal® (risperidone). Information about the drug and its specific effects, dosing guidelines, and safety should be discussed with your healthcare provider before treatment begins.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking Risperdal if you have epilepsy, diabetes, heart disease, or Alzheimer's disease (as the medicine may cause problems in people with these conditions). In order to help prevent Risperdal drug interactions, you should also tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are currently taking.
Although Risperdal is not a cure for schizophrenia, autism, or bipolar disorder, it can help treat symptoms of the conditions. Clinical studies have shown this medication to be effective for improving symptoms and preventing relapses. Children with autism taking Risperdal experienced fewer behavior problems, including aggression, self-harm, temper tantrums, and quickly changing moods.
Risperdal comes in tablet form and is usually taken by mouth once or twice a day. The medication also comes in a liquid form and in orally disintegrating tablets that dissolve rapidly in the mouth (Risperdal M-Tabs®). These products are helpful for people who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
(Click Risperdal for more information, including details on how the medication works, what side effects may occur, and what else you should discuss with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD