Risperdal is a prescription anti-psychotic medication that is also known by the generic name risperidone. Risperdal is commonly used to treat schizophrenia in adults and adolescents. Bipolar mania and irritability associated with autism may also be treated with Risperdal. There are many potential side effects of Risperdal. A physician should explain the possible complications of Risperdal before starting treatment.
Tardive Dyskinesia
MayoClinic.com explains that Risperdal can cause a potentially serious movement disorder known as tardive dyskinesia. This disorder can persist even after discontinuing use of Risperdal. Symptoms of tardive dyskinesia include uncontrolled movements of the tongue, cheeks and jaw as well as the arms and legs. Patients experiencing such uncontrollable movements should contact their physician immediately.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Risperdal use can cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome in some patients. MayoClinic.com lists the symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome as fever, severe tiredness, muscle stiffness, fast heartbeat, increased sweating, loss of bladder control and seizures. Patient safety information provided by Risperdal.com explains that individuals with a history of seizures should talk to their doctor about the potential convulsive side effects of Risperdal.
Psychiatric Complications
A number of psychiatric complications related to depression and anxiety have been reported with Risperdal use. Drugs.com lists a number of these potential psychiatric complications, including agitation, increased aggressive behaviors, depression, decreased sex drive, mania, euphoria and apathy.
Headache and Dizziness
Drugs.com reports that headache and dizziness are common side effects of Risperdal, affecting 14 and 11 percent of Risperdal users, respectively. Vertigo, confusion and amnesia are also reported by people taking Risperdal. These side effects are typically mild and occur as the body and brain adjust to Risperdal use. If such side effects become persistent or troublesome, Risperdal users should consult their health care professional.
Upset Stomach
Gastrointestinal complaints are common in people taking Risperdal. These side effects typically include upset stomach, stomach pain, heart burn, constipation, diarrhea and nausea. Stomach-related side effects of Risperdal are usually harmless but should be reported to a doctor if they persist.
Skin Rash
Dermatologic side effects are frequently experienced while taking Risperdal. Drugs.com explains that Risperdal users commonly report skin rashes, dry skin, acne, light sensitivity, changes in skin color and increased sweating.
Member Comments
crazytierney January 14
I was prescribed risperdal after about five minutes of calmly talking to my first psychiatrist when I was eighteen and took exactly one red pill the next evening. I woke up barely able to breath because my throat was so swollen and unable to talk because of tough swollen. I don't quite remember all of it but I also had horrible intestinal pain and was very delirious from not breathing enough. So I thought I was expieriencing the pain of someone else who was in surgury but I had no anethstesia...? I then spent about three days wondering around because I was completely unable to sit still. I also ate about one pickle and some applesauce the whole time because I was so nasious no matter how hard I tried I could not fit it down my swollen mouth and throat. Eventually I convinced my dad to come and get me from college, and I made it to an acupuncturist . While also not being able to sit because of back pain. Oh yeah, and I got P.S.A.S. too, aka living .