Risperdal, or risperidone, is used for short-term treatment of schizophrenia and to delay relapse into schizophrenia. Other uses of Risperdal include conjunctive use with other psychotropic medications in short-term treatment of acute mania or episodes of bipolar disorder. Risperdal can also be an effective treatment for autistic patients. As with other psychotropic medications, Risperdal carries numerous side effects throughout many body systems.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Persons taking Risperdal have reported tachycardia (fast heart rate), chest pain, orthostatic hypotension (blood pressure drops when standing), peripheral edema (swelling of hands, feet and lower legs), syncope (fainting) and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Central Nervous System
The PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook and Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference both report that one of the most serious and potentially fatal side effects of Risperdal is neuroleptic malignant syndrome. A patient experiencing hyperthermia, catatonic rigidity, profuse sweating or seizures should seek immediate medical attention as this condition has the potential for serious complications. Risperdal may also increase suicidal ideation in patients prone to anxiety, depression, mania and hallucinations, all of which are also side effects of Risperdal. Family members of patients on Risperdal should monitor any acute changes in the patient's behavior including detachment from family members, possessions and lack of interest in typical pleasurable pursuits. Headaches, drowsiness, tremors and extreme fatigue are also side effects of this medication.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Gastrointestinal side effects are relatively mild and most may be managed through over-the-counter medications unless side effects become severe. The most common GI side effects of Risperdal are constipation, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, dry mouth, increased saliva and diarrhea. Any vomiting and diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours may result in a serious imbalance in electrolytes and should be reported to a physician.
Metabolic and Muscular
Metabolic side effects include weight gain, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and also weight loss. Joint, back, leg and muscle pain have also been reported in patients taking Risperdal. Patients may manage these side effects with over-the-counter pain medications or contact their physician with any concerns.
Genitourinary
Patients taking Risperdal have reported experiencing incontinence, increased urination and abnormal orgasms. Women have also reported vaginal dryness.
Upper Respiratory
Nasal congestion, sinus infections, sore throat and visual disturbances have been noted by patients taking Risperdal. Coughing, dyspnea (shortness of breath) and an increase in upper respiratory infections may be possible side effects while on Risperdal.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010"; Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference"; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
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