Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Risperidone Injection (RISPERIDONE - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • bipolar disorder
  • schizophrenia

Brand Name(s): Risperdal

Generic Name: Risperidone

Instructions

This medicine will be given to you at the doctor's office.

This medicine is given as an injection into a muscle.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

This medicine may cause higher blood sugar levels or diabetes. Please follow your doctor's instructions and check your blood sugar level regularly while on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Avoid becoming overheated during exercise or other activities. Try to stay cool in hot weather.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

After being on this medication, speak with your doctor about any new, unusual or strong thoughts or feelings.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. This medicine can pass through breast milk to the baby.

If you have a painful erection or an erection for more than 4 hours, seek medical care right away.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • constipation
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • drooling
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • low blood pressure
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • weight gain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • breathing interruption during sleep
  • confusion
  • depression or feeling sad
  • face appearing mask-like
  • fainting
  • fever
  • swelling in the neck or throat
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • high blood sugar
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • uncontrollable movement of face, tongue, arms or legs
  • muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
  • seizures
  • shakiness
  • suicidal thoughts
  • difficulty swallowing
  • excessive thirst
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • increased urinary frequency
  • dark urine

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.