How to Take Risperdal
Risperdal (risperidone) treats schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability from autism in certain age groups. Follow your doctor's instructions exactly—dosing varies by condition, age, weight, and response. Usual adult starting dose for schizophrenia is 2 mg per day, split into 1-2 doses, increasing gradually to 4-8 mg daily. Take orally as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets (dissolve on tongue), or oral solution. Swallow tablets whole with water; can take with or without food.[1][2]
Available Forms and Dosing by Condition
- Tablets/oral solution: 0.25 mg to 6 mg daily for adults; lower for kids/teens.
- Orally disintegrating tablets: Same strengths; no water needed.
- Long-acting injection (Risperdal Consta): Every 2 weeks (25-50 mg); for adults stable on oral form.
- Other injection (Risperdal M-Tab or Perseris): Monthly subcutaneous implant.
Schizophrenia/bipolar: 4-8 mg/day max. Autism irritability (5-16 years): Up to 3 mg/day. Adjust slowly over weeks to minimize side effects. Elderly or kidney/liver issues start at 0.5 mg/day.[2][3]
Step-by-Step Usage Instructions
- Measure liquid form with provided syringe; mix with water, coffee, or juice if needed—shake well first.
- For disintegrating tabs, peel open, place on tongue, let dissolve (no chewing/swallowing whole).
- Take at same times daily. If switching forms or stopping, taper under doctor guidance to avoid withdrawal.
- Missed dose: Take soon as remembered unless near next dose—skip and resume schedule; don't double up.[1][2]
Common Side Effects and Precautions
Weight gain, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or movement issues like tremors. Serious risks include high blood sugar, high cholesterol, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia (permanent), or increased death risk in elderly dementia patients (not approved for that). Avoid alcohol, driving until effects known. Report suicidal thoughts, fever, stiff muscles, or uncontrolled movements immediately. Not for use in pregnancy unless essential—may harm fetus.[2][3]
Interactions and Storage
Avoid with drugs raising prolactin (e.g., other antipsychotics), blood pressure meds, or carbamazepine (needs dose adjustment). Inform doctor of all meds/supplements. Store at room temperature, away from moisture/light; discard after expiration.[1]
Critical: This is general info—not personalized advice. Always read the label/prescribing info and consult your doctor/pharmacist before starting or changing use. For full details, see FDA label or Drugs.com.
[1]: FDA Risperdal Prescribing Information
[2]: Drugs.com Risperidone
[3]: MedlinePlus Risperidone