Risperdal, the brand name product of risperidone, is an antipsychotic agent used for the treatment of schizophrenia and acute or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. The medication is also used for the treatment of aggressiveness or irritability associated with autism. The symptoms of these disorders are caused by imbalances of chemicals in the brain. Risperdal improves symptoms by balancing two chemicals, serotonin and dopamine. Many side effects may occur with the use of this drug. The patient can discuss his concerns with a physician before starting medication therapy.
Insomnia and Fatigue
Insomnia, or difficulty sleeping, is a side effect of Risperdal that is seen in adults. About 25 percent of adults may experience this side effect. On the other hand, children experience fatigue when using Risperdal. According the “Drug Information Handbook,” up to 42 percent of children may experience fatigue, while only 4 percent of adults present with this adverse effect. Drowsiness may also occur in both children and adults; about 67 percent of children and 28 percent of adults may report this side effect. Dizziness and headaches may also be seen in about 10 percent of users. The patient or parent should inform a physician right away if these side effects worsen.
Extrapyramidal Symptoms
Extrapyramidal symptoms include symptoms such as repetitive involuntary muscle movement, extreme restlessness and shaking or tremor. Dystonia, or severe muscle spasms, may occur in about 15 percent of patients. The patient should inform a physician so that he may receive treatment. Parkinsonism, which includes tremor or involuntary shaking, slowness and muscle rigidity, is seen about 10 percent of children and 20 percent of adults. The inability to sit still, called akathisia, is seen in about 10 percent of children. These side effects should be reported a physician, as the patient may require a switch to another medication.
Effects on the Reproductive Organs
Risperdal may cause many side effects on the reproductive organs. Women on Risperdal may experience menstrual irregularities and lack of a menstrual period. Unexplained secretion of milk from the breast may also occur, reports “Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach.” Enlargement of breasts and breast milk secretion are also reported in men. Men may also experience impotence, or inability to produce an erection. These side effects do not appear to diminish with continued use of the medication and require a reduction in dose or the administration of a different medication.
Nausea, Vomiting and Constipation
Nausea is seen in about 10 percent of patients on Risperdal. Vomiting and abdominal pain are seen in about 15 percent of children. Patients may take the medication with food to help with these side effects. Constipation is more common in children, as well, and is seen in about 21 percent. Adequate intake of fiber is essential to avoid constipation. However, if constipation becomes severe or persists for more than three days, the patient must receive medical care immediately.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
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