Atypical Antipsychotic Medications: Risperidone

Who can be prescribed risperidone?
Risperidone (brand name, Risperdal) may be prescribed for people with schizophrenia and related psychoses.

How long before it starts to work?
People being treated with risperidone may see some benefits within six weeks of starting to take it. If it is not helping, then the doctor may consider adjusting the dose or replacing it with a different antipsychotic medication.

What are the possible side-effects?
Some people taking risperidone may experience upset stomach, dizziness, sexual dysfunction, disappearance of periods in women, and fast heartbeat. Some weight gain is possible.

What can be done about these side-effects?
Some of these side-effects may decrease over time, while others may be helped by the doctor reducing the dose prescribed. Any problems with weight gain can be helped by a careful diet and regular exercise.

How do I find out more?
It is important that you discuss any concerns you have with your doctor or case manager. The SANE Guide to Treatments also contains more detailed information on medications and other forms of treatment for people seriously affected by mental illness. For further information or for details of support organisations, email the SANE Helpline .

SANE Australia . . . Meeting the challenge of mental illness
New Antispsychotic Medications

©SANE Factsheet 10, Side 2
This Factsheet may be freely downloaded, copied and distributed on condition no change is made to the contents. SANE Australia is not responsible for any actions taken as a result of information or opinions contained in the Factsheet. SANE Australia is a business name of Schizophrenia Australia Foundation.
[Version English, 2000]