Risperidone

Risperidone is a atypical antipsychotic medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions — and all brands with their current prices.

• Schizophrenia.
• Acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
• Irritability associated with autistic disorder in children and adolescents, where approved and prescribed by a specialist.

The dose of Risperidone must be individualized by the prescribing doctor according to the condition being treated, age, response, other medicines and kidney or liver function. Adults are usually started on a low dose and adjusted gradually; it may be taken once or twice daily depending on the prescription and dosage form. Do not change the dose, stop suddenly, or switch between tablet, ODT, MD tablet or syrup without medical advice.

• Common: sleepiness, dizziness, headache, tiredness, insomnia, anxiety, nausea, constipation, dry mouth and increased appetite or weight gain.
• Movement-related effects: tremor, stiffness, restlessness, slow movements or abnormal muscle movements.
• Hormonal effects: increased prolactin, which may cause menstrual changes, breast milk production, breast enlargement or sexual dysfunction.
• Serious: severe allergic reaction, neuroleptic malignant syndrome with high fever and muscle stiffness, tardive dyskinesia, seizures, high blood sugar or worsening diabetes, significant low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm, low white blood cells, and increased risk of stroke or death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.

Use Risperidone carefully in people with heart disease, stroke risk, low blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, swallowing problems, dehydration, low white blood cell history, liver or kidney impairment, or a personal/family history of QT prolongation. It may impair alertness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until its effects are known. This medicine should be used under the guidance of a registered doctor or pharmacist.

• Alcohol and sedatives such as sleeping tablets, opioids, benzodiazepines or some antihistamines may increase drowsiness and breathing or coordination problems.
• Blood pressure medicines may increase the risk of dizziness or fainting from low blood pressure.
• Levodopa and dopamine agonists may have reduced effect when used with Risperidone.
• Fluoxetine, paroxetine and some other CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase risperidone levels and side effects.
• Carbamazepine, rifampicin and some enzyme-inducing medicines may reduce risperidone levels and effectiveness.
• Medicines that prolong the QT interval or disturb electrolytes may increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythm.

• Known hypersensitivity or serious allergic reaction to risperidone, paliperidone, or any ingredient of the product.
• It should not be used for an unapproved purpose or in a person for whom a doctor has advised avoidance because of serious previous adverse reaction.

During pregnancy, Risperidone should be used only if the expected benefit justifies the potential risk, as antipsychotic exposure near delivery may cause temporary withdrawal or movement symptoms in the newborn. Risperidone can pass into breast milk; breastfeeding mothers should discuss risks and benefits with a doctor and monitor the infant for sleepiness, poor feeding or unusual movements.

Store at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the medicine in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Follow the label instructions for syrup after opening and do not use after the expiry date.