RISPERDAL (risperidone) is a medication that treats the symptoms of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia symptoms are thought to be caused by imbalances of two chemicals in the brain. These are called dopamine and serotonin. Exactly how RISPERDAL (risperidone) works is unknown. However, RISPERDAL (risperidone) seems to readjust the balance of dopamine and serotonin. This helps relieve your symptoms. While it's not a cure, RISPERDAL (risperidone) helps control your symptoms so you can start getting on with your life.
RISPERDAL (risperidone) comes in 6 tablet strengths and a liquid form. RISPERDAL (risperidone) is compatible with water, orange juice, coffee, and low fat milk. RISPERDAL (risperidone) Oral Solution should not be taken with tea or cola. These fluids were tested during clinical trials. RISPERDAL (risperidone) can be prescribed at different doses, so please ask you doctor about dosing that's right for you. If you have any additional questions about RISPERDAL (risperidone), please talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.
Symptoms commonly associated with schizophrenia include:
1. Positive Symptoms- Delusions (belief in ideas that are obviously false), Hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that do not exist), Disorganized thinking (unclear or confused thoughts), Agitation (nervousness) and
2. Negative Symptoms- Lack of drive or initiative (daily activities cannot be accomplished (e.g., bathing), Social withdrawal (isolate oneself from friends, family, and the public), Apathy (lack of feeling or emotion), Emotional unresponsiveness (has no feeling towards anything, the person would not cry if sad, show anger if mad, or smile/laugh when happy), Anhedonia (diminished ability to experience pleasure).
Risperdal side effects, that may go away during treatment, include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, weight gain, constipation, nervousness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty sleeping. If Risperdal side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience Risperdal side effects like tremors, unusual muscle movements, behavior or mood changes, or rash. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience Risperdal side effects like numbness in the face, arms, or legs; one-sided weakness; sudden vision changes; slurred speech or confusion. FOR MEN: in the unlikely event you have Risperdal side effects like a painful, prolonged erection, stop using this medicine and seek immediate medical attention or permanent problems could occur. If you notice other Risperdal side effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.