Risperdal

Other Names: Risperidone.

Commonly Prescribed For: Risperdal is generally prescribed for treating the symptoms associated with schizophrenia in adults and in teenagers. This medication can also be used for treating episodes of mania or mixed episodes in adults and teenagers with bipolar disorder. It is commonly used with other medications.

How to Take it: Risperdal is available in the form of a tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet, and a solution to be taken via mouth. This medication is normally taken once every day or two times a day, either with food or without food. Take this medication as prescribed, around the same time daily.

How it Works: Risperdal belongs to a group of drugs known as atypical antipsychotic. This medication works to change the activity of some natural substances present in the brain.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include difficulty urinating, drowsiness, dry or discolored skin, dizziness, muscle or joint pain, nausea, vision problems, vomiting, breast milk production, diarrhea, decreased sexual interest, constipation, difficulty falling asleep, heartburn, dreaming more than usual, dry mouth, restlessness, increased saliva, agitation, increased appetite, and stomach pain. Some serious side effects include fever, painful erection of penis, difficulty breathing or swallowing, muscle stiffness, itching, hives, confusion, rash, fast or irregular pulse, shuffling walk, sweating, seizures and faintness.