How Effective Is Risperidone for Schizophrenia?

Risperidone for schizophrenia is considered to be quite effective at relieving anti-psychotic symptoms in some patients. For other patients, however, the side effects of risperidone often cause doctors to prescribe other medications, either to take in place of risperidone or to counteract its negative side effects. In addition to concerns about side effects, doctors avoid prescribing this drug to people taking certain drugs to treat other conditions. Many people who successfully take risperidone for schizophrenia report that it doesn’t work immediately, but begins to relieve symptoms only after it has been taken for an extended period of time.

While psychologists commonly prescribe risperidone for schizophrenia, it is also used to treat other disorders. Among other treatment uses of risperidone, it is sometimes prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and aggression, particularly among teenagers. Some doctors also prescribe risperidone for treating autism in children.

Risperidone is made available in several different forms, including pills and liquid injections. Some patients willingly seek psychological help and are then prescribed risperidone for schizophrenia. In instances where patients must be hospitalized or otherwise detained for their own safety, as well as the safety of others, risperidone is sometimes given against a patient’s will.

A few of the side effects of risperidone include dry mouth, constipation and headache. Some people also experience seizures, dizziness, muscle stiffness and drowsiness. Doctors sometimes avoid prescribing this drug to elderly individuals stricken with dementia, as one of the risks of risperidone is that it increases the likelihood of death in these populations.

Risperidone may also not be prescribed to individuals taking medications for certain other illnesses and conditions. Concerns about risperidone drug interactions encourage patients to notify their doctor about the use of herbs and other medications, such as antidepressants and seizure medications. People who are taking blood pressure medications or who use sedatives are also advised to speak to a doctor about using risperidone for schizophrenia.

There are often mixed reviews among people who take risperidone for schizophrenia. For some people, severe side effects include confusion that prevents confidence in making decisions. Some have also reported feelings of depression and believe that the drug has even led them to experience suicidal thoughts. Medical literature warns those using risperidone for schizophrenia to contact a physician immediately if severe side effects such as these are experienced.