Risperdal

Risperdal works by affecting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals are involved in regulating mood, behavior, and cognition. By modulating their activity, Risperidone helps to reduce symptoms associated with certain mental health disorders.

Risperdal is commonly prescribed for the following conditions:

1. Schizophrenia: Medicine is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, including hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and emotional withdrawal.
2. Bipolar disorder: Risperdal may be used as part of a treatment plan for bipolar disorder, particularly for managing manic or mixed episodes.
3. Irritability associated with autism: Risperdal is sometimes prescribed to help manage irritability, aggression, and self-injurious behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders.
4. Major depressive disorder: Risperidone may be prescribed in combination with an antidepressant for the treatment of major depressive disorder when other treatments have not been effective.

How to use

Here are general guidelines on how to use Risperdal:

1. Oral tablets: Medicine is available in oral tablet form. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
2. Oral solution: If you are prescribed Risperdal oral solution, carefully measure the prescribed dose using the measuring device provided. Shake the bottle well before each use. You can take the solution directly from the measuring device or mix it with a small amount of water, coffee, orange juice, or low-fat milk. Do not mix it with cola or tea.
3. Stick to the schedule: Take Risperdal at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. This will help maximize its effectiveness.
4. Be patient: Risperidone may take time to exert its full effects. It may be several weeks before you start experiencing the full benefits of the medication. Continue taking it as prescribed, even if you start feeling better.
5. Do not abruptly stop: Stopping the medication abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a recurrence of symptoms.

Dosage

The dosage of Risperdal can vary depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, individual response to the medication, and other factors. The information below provides general dosage guidelines, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Schizophrenia:

• Adults: The recommended starting dose is usually 1 to 2 milligrams (mg) per day, taken once daily or divided into two doses.
• Adolescents (13-17 years): The initial dose is typically lower, starting at 0.5 mg per day. The dose may be increased gradually based on individual response, usually up to 6 mg per day.
• Children (10-17 years): The starting dose is usually 0.5 mg per day, with the potential for gradual dose adjustments up to 3 mg per day.

Bipolar disorder:

• Adults: The starting dose is typically 2 to 3 mg per day, taken once daily.
• Adolescents (10-17 years): The starting dose is usually 0.5 mg per day, with possible dose adjustments up to 3 mg per day.

Irritability associated with autism:

• Children and adolescents (5-16 years): The initial dose is typically 0.25 mg per day. The dose may be gradually increased by 0.25 mg every few days, up to a target dose of 0.5 to 2.5 mg per day.

Side effects

The following are some common side effects associated with Risperdal:

1. Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS): These are movement-related side effects that can include muscle stiffness, tremors, restlessness, and involuntary muscle movements.
2. Sedation: Risperdal can cause drowsiness or sedation, which may affect your ability to concentrate or operate machinery. Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
3. Weight gain: Medicine can sometimes lead to weight gain. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to help manage weight.
4. Increased prolactin levels: Risperdal may elevate levels of prolactin, a hormone that regulates lactation. This can lead to side effects such as breast enlargement or tenderness, menstrual changes, and decreased libido.
5. Dry mouth: Risperdal can cause a dry sensation in the mouth. Sip water or use sugarless gum or candy to alleviate discomfort. Good oral hygiene is important to prevent dental issues.
6. Constipation: Risperidone may contribute to constipation. Ensure you maintain a balanced diet with sufficient fiber and fluid intake. Regular exercise can also help prevent constipation.
7. Dizziness or low blood pressure: Some individuals may experience dizziness or low blood pressure upon standing up quickly. To minimize these effects, rise slowly from a seated or lying position.
8. Metabolic changes: Risperdal may impact lipid levels and blood sugar control in some individuals. Regular monitoring of these parameters may be necessary, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol.

Storage

Risperdal should be stored in accordance with the following guidelines:

1. Temperature: Store medicine at room temperature, ideally between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C).
2. Protect from moisture: Keep the medication in its original packaging or container to protect it from moisture. Avoid storing it in areas with high humidity, such as the bathroom.
3. Light sensitivity: Risperidone should be stored away from direct light exposure. Keep it in a dry, dark place.
4. Keep out of reach of children: Ensure that Risperdal is stored in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
5. Do not store in extreme conditions: Avoid storing Risperdal in areas with excessively high or low temperatures, such as in a refrigerator or near a heater. Also, do not freeze the medication.
6. Proper disposal: If you have any expired or unused Risperdal, it is important to dispose of it properly. Follow your local guidelines or consult a pharmacist for guidance on safe medication disposal.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose or have taken more Risperdal than prescribed, take the following steps:

1. Contact emergency services: Call your local emergency number or seek immediate medical assistance. Inform them that you have taken an overdose of Risperdal.
2. Do not induce vomiting: Do not try to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by medical professionals. Vomiting may not effectively remove the medication from your system and can potentially lead to complications.
3. Provide information: When medical help arrives, provide them with detailed information about the medication, including the name and the amount you have taken. If possible, have the medication packaging available for reference.
4. Treatment in the hospital: In cases of Risperdal overdose, treatment may involve gastric lavage (stomach pumping) to remove the remaining medication from the stomach. Activated charcoal may be administered to help absorb the medication. Supportive care and close monitoring of vital signs will be provided.

It is important to note that an overdose of Risperidone can lead to severe complications, including cardiac abnormalities, changes in blood pressure, and central nervous system effects. The specific treatment and management will depend on the severity of the overdose and the symptoms presented.

If you or someone you know has taken an overdose of Risperdal, do not delay seeking medical help. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Risperdal, follow these general guidelines:

1. Take it as soon as you remember: If you realize you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
2. Stay consistent: To maintain consistent blood levels of Risperdal, it is important to take it as prescribed and adhere to the recommended dosing schedule. Try to take the medication at the same time(s) each day to minimize the likelihood of missing a dose.