From the Guidelines
Risperidone is primarily used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism, by balancing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. It is an atypical antipsychotic medication, which means it has a lower risk of extrapyramidal symptoms compared to traditional neuroleptics 1. The medication works by affecting multiple neurotransmitter systems, including both antidopaminergic and antiserotonergic activity, which helps control symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, aggression, and mood swings. Some key points to consider when using risperidone include:
- Typical dosing ranges from 0.5 to 6 mg daily, often starting at a lower dose and gradually increasing as needed 1.
- For schizophrenia, treatment is usually long-term, while for acute mania in bipolar disorder, it may be used for shorter periods.
- Common side effects include drowsiness, weight gain, increased appetite, and movement disorders.
- Risperidone can also raise prolactin levels, potentially causing sexual dysfunction or breast enlargement.
- Patients should take this medication consistently, avoid abrupt discontinuation, and have regular check-ups to monitor for side effects. It's essential to note that risperidone requires a prescription and should only be taken under medical supervision, as individual responses and appropriate dosing can vary significantly 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
RISPERIDONE (risperidone) is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia. RISPERIDONE is indicated for the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. RISPERIDONE adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate is indicated for the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. RISPERIDONE is indicated for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder, including symptoms of aggression towards others, deliberate self-injuriousness, temper tantrums, and quickly changing moods
Risperidone is used for the treatment of:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar Mania: acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder, as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate
- Irritability Associated with Autistic Disorder: including symptoms of aggression, self-injuriousness, temper tantrums, and mood changes in children and adolescents 2
From the Research
Uses of Risperidone
Risperidone is used for various psychiatric conditions, including:
- Schizophrenia in adults and adolescents aged 13-17 years 3, 4, 5
- Bipolar I disorder, specifically for the short-term treatment of acute manic and mixed episodes in children and adolescents aged 10-17 years 3, 4, 5
- Irritability associated with autistic disorder in children and adolescents aged 5-16 years 3, 4, 6, 5
Mechanism of Action
Risperidone acts via dopamine D(2) and serotonin (5-HT)(2A) receptor antagonism 3, 4, 5
Efficacy and Safety
Studies have shown that risperidone is effective in reducing irritability and other behavioral symptoms associated with autistic disorder in children and adolescents 3, 4 The drug has a clinically manageable tolerability profile, with most adverse events being of mild to moderate intensity 3, 4 However, there are some aspects of treatment that require monitoring, such as weight gain, somnolence, and hyperglycemia 3, 4, 6