What Is Risperidone?

Precautions To Remember

Before risperidone is prescribed, patients should let their doctor know about any allergies they have, including allergies to paliperidone. Doctors will also need to know if the patient has a history of seizures, liver or kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, dementia, swallowing difficulties, or a low white blood cell count. Any family or personal history of heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, cataracts, or glaucoma should be mentioned to the physician as well. Patients who have a personal or family history of these conditions may need to take a different medication. Alcohol and marijuana consumption could increase the risk of experiencing dizziness or drowsiness while on this medicine, and patients are advised not to use these while taking risperidone. To reduce the likelihood of falls or fainting, patients should try to get out of bed slowly and rest their feet on the floor for several minutes before moving to a standing position. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss the risks and benefits of risperidone with their physician. When used during the last trimester of pregnancy, the medication could lead to constant crying, muscle stiffness, and breathing or feeding difficulties in the newborn; parents should report these to the child's physician immediately.

Learn more about potential medication interactions next.