Brand Names:
Risperdal, Risperdal M-TAB, Risperdal Consta
What is it?
Although it is not exacly known how it works, Risperidone is known to block the effects of dopamine in the brain and also the effects of serotonin at a receptor known as 5HT-2. It helps with symptoms of schizophrenia. Doctors are also prescribing it for Bipolar 1 and irritabililty in autism and violence in nursing home residence.
What’s In It For Me?
Risperidone decreases symptoms of schizophrenia. It can help decrease hallucinations including those seen and heard, as well as paranoia and delusions (positive symptoms).
The Good
Risperidone helps relieve schizophrenia symptoms without some of the bad side effects of the earlier drugs. However, risperidone doesn’t help as well with nonsocial behaviors, not being aware of surroundings, and not being able to carry a conversation.
The Bad
Even though different than the older drugs that were first used for schizophrenia, Risperidone still has a number of side effects. It can cause breast swelling or milk production in women, and even in men. Risperidone can lead to weight gain in up to 18% percent of people and also cause an increase in blood sugar levels. It can cause tremors that look like Parkinson’s disease in around 15% of people who take it and also a feeling of having to move your legs constantly.
The Controversial
Kids, should they be prescribed a medication that works on their brain? The FDA has approved Risperidone’s use in teenages 13-17 for schizophrenia and to children as young as 5 with irritability autism, but we are not so sure that is a good idea. Side effects occur much more frequently in children.
Another big issue is that use in elderly for behavioral problems is associated with a higher incidence of death.
The Cost
If you are a veteran, this medication is very inexpensive. For anyone else it is expensive, but not as expensive as some of the newer medications.
Risperidone is powerful drug that acts in the brain. It has significant side effects, but if the mental problems are bad enough it is probably worth the risks. All other measures should be tried first for behavioral problems in the elderly.
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