DRUG TITLE

Risperdal (Risperidone)

APPLICATION

Risperdal is an atypical antipsychotic that is used in the treatment of schizophrenia or bipolar mania. Doctors may also prescribe it for other conditions if found appropriate.

MODE OF APPLICATION

Use Risperdal as directed by your doctor.

• Take Risperdal during food or after
• Acceptance of Risperdal should be regular
• Continue to take Risperdal even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

THE MECHANISM OF ACTION

Risperdal is an atypical antipsychotic agent. It works by affecting certain substances in the brain.

MISSED DOSE

If you miss a dose of Risperdal, you should take it as soon as possible. If this occurred while taking your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

STORAGE

Risperdal is stored at a temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees C). No long-term storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 ° and 30 ° C) is not allowed. Keep away from heat, moisture and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Risperdal out of the children and away from pets.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES

Do not use Risperdal if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Risperdal.

Contact your doctor immediately if any of these items apply to you.
Some medicines may interact with Risperdal. Tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following applies to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or nourish
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplements
• if you have allergy to medicines, foods or other substances
• if you have seizures, heart problems (e.g., heart failure, slow or irregular heartbeat), violation of an electrocardiogram (ECG), heart attack, stroke, blood vessel problems, or high or low blood pressure
• if you have a medical report of kidney or liver problems, stomach or intestines (such as narrowing, blockage), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), suicidal thoughts or attempts, or alcohol abuse or dependence
• if you have diabetes or are overweight, or if a family member had diabetes
• if you have Alzheimer's disease, dementia, Parkinson's disease, or esophagus problems (e.g., problems with swallowing)
• if you have had high blood prolactin levels or a history of certain cancers (eg, breast, pancreas, pituitary, brain), or if you are at risk of developing breast cancer
• if you have dehydration, you drink alcohol, or will be exposed to very high or very low temperatures

Some medicines may interact with Risperdal. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

• Alpha-blockers (e.g., doxazosin) or medicine for high blood pressure because the risk of low blood pressure and fainting may be increased
• Anticholinergics (e.g., scopolamine) because the risk of overheating may be increased
• Clozapine or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (eg, fluoxetine, paroxetine), as this may increase the risk of side effects of Risperdal
• Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, or because they may decrease the effectiveness of Risperdal
• Dopamine receptor agonists (e.g., pramipexole) or levodopa because their effectiveness may be reduced by taking Risperdal

SIDE EFFECTS

Consult your doctor if any of these most common side effects become frequent:

• constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, gas, headache, heartburn, nausea, upset stomach, trouble sleeping.

Contact your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, shortness of breath, chest tightness, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), bloody or black, tarry stools; change in the amount of urine, chest pain, confusion, dark urine; depression, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, or persistent sore throat, mood changes, numbness of hands or feet, one-sided weakness; red skin, blisters, or peeling skin; ringing in the ears, seizures, severe headache or dizziness, severe or persistent stomach pain and nausea, severe vomiting, shortness of breath, sudden or unexplained weight gain, swelling of hands, feet or legs, unusual bruising or bleeding, unusual joint or muscle pain, unusual tiredness or weakness; vision or speech changes ; thick vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Risperdal should be used only patient for whom it is prescribed.
If symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.