Risperdal Side Effects

Although most people tolerate Risperdal well, there are potential side effects that can occur. Some of the most common Risperdal side effects can include drowsiness, an increased appetite, and upper respiratory tract infections. In most cases, the side effects of Risperdal are minor and can easily be treated. However, be sure to notify your healthcare provider right away if you develop more serious side effects, such as rapid weight gain, a fast heart rate, or thoughts of suicide.

 

An Introduction to Risperdal Side Effects

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Risperdal® (risperidone). However, not everyone who takes Risperdal will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Risperdal. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Risperdal side effects with you.)
 

Common Risperdal Side Effects

Risperdal has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to the side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common Risperdal side effects included:
 
  • Drowsiness -- in up to 67 percent of people
  • An increased appetite -- up to 49 percent
  • Upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold -- up to 34 percent

  • Fatigue -- in up to 30 percent

  • Insomnia -- up to 26 percent (see Risperdal and Insomnia)
  • Agitation -- up to 26 percent
  • Increased salivation -- up to 22 percent
  • Anxiety -- up to 20 percent

  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- up to 18 percent

  • Heartburn or indigestion -- up to 16 percent

  • Nausea -- up to 16 percent

  • Dizziness -- up to 16 percent

  • Headaches -- up to 14 percent.

 
Some of the other common Risperdal side effects (occurring in 1 to 13 percent of people) included:
 
 
(Risperdal Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;