What is Risperidone used for?

Mental illness with confused thinking or hearing voices (schizophrenia), sudden mood swings and extreme excitement (bipolar disorder/mania), severe irritability and aggression in people with autism

What are the side effects of Risperidone?

Feeling sleepy or drowsy, weight gain and increased appetite, dizziness especially when standing up quickly, headache, restlessness or difficulty staying still

Who should not take Risperidone?

People who are allergic to risperidone or any of its ingredients, elderly people with dementia (memory loss and confusion from old age) as it increases the risk of stroke, people with severe liver or kidney problems unless closely monitored by a doctor, and people with Parkinson's disease.

Risperidone — Dosage, Uses & Brands (Afrab Risperidone 2 Caplets, Afrab Risperidone 4 Caplets, Altadon-1 Tablet)

How to take this drug

For adults, the doctor usually starts you on 1 mg twice daily and may gradually increase to 2-4 mg twice daily depending on how you respond. You can take it with or without food. Swallow the tablet with water. If using the mouth-dissolving type (like Andro), place it on your tongue and let it dissolve — no water needed. Always follow your doctor's exact instructions. Common brands in Nigeria include Risperdal, Altadon, Amidrex, Masrone, and Bafnacure.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the one you missed.

What to watch out for

This is a prescription-only medicine — do not buy it from roadside vendors or take it because someone recommended it; always get a doctor's prescription. Do not stop taking risperidone suddenly on your own as this can cause your symptoms to come back worse — your doctor will reduce the dose gradually. Be careful when driving or operating machines because this medicine can make you very drowsy.

Common Side Effects

Feeling sleepy or drowsy
weight gain and increased appetite
dizziness especially when standing up quickly
headache
restlessness or difficulty staying still

Serious Side Effects

Uncontrollable movements of the face
tongue or body (like lip smacking or stiffness) — see a doctor immediately. High fever with muscle stiffness and confusion (this is a rare but dangerous reaction). Swelling of the face
throat or difficulty breathing (signs of a serious allergic reaction) — go to the hospital right away.

Drug Interactions

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking risperidone as it can make you extremely drowsy and affect your thinking. Blood pressure medicines taken together with risperidone can cause your blood pressure to drop too low, making you feel faint. Carbamazepine (a medicine for seizures/convulsions) can reduce how well risperidone works, so tell your doctor if you are taking it.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Risperidone is not considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it can affect the baby — do not take it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically says you should.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to risperidone or any of its ingredients
elderly people with dementia (memory loss and confusion from old age) as it increases the risk of stroke
people with severe liver or kidney problems unless closely monitored by a doctor
and people with Parkinson's disease.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in a car or near a window. Keep the medicine tightly sealed and far from the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Brand Names

Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies

Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check

Counterfeit Drug Warning

Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.

Risperidone

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