Risperdal (Risperidone)

Use Risperdal as directed by your doctor.

• Take Risperdal by mouth with or without food.
• Taking Risperdal at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
• Continue to take Risperdal even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Risperdal. Drug Class and Mechanism

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

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Risperdal , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Risperdal at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Risperdal out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Do not use Risperdal if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Risperdal.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Some medical conditions may interact with Risperdal . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have a history of seizures, heart problems (eg, heart failure, slow or irregular heartbeat), abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), heart attack, stroke, blood vessel problems, or high or low blood pressure
• if you have a history of kidney or liver problems, stomach or bowel problems (eg, narrowing, blockage), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), suicidal thoughts or attempts, or alcohol abuse or dependence
• if you have diabetes or are very overweight, or if a family member has had diabetes
• if you have Alzheimer disease, dementia, Parkinson disease, or esophagus problems (eg, trouble swallowing)
• if you have had high blood prolactin levels or a history of certain types of cancer (eg, breast, pancreas, pituitary, brain), or if you are at risk for breast cancer
• if you are dehydrated, drink alcohol, or will be exposed to very high or very low temperatures

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Risperdal . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

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