Risperidone
Risperdal (risperidone) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder. It helps reduce symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, mood instability, and aggressive behavior.
Risperdal is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism-related irritability.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 152318
- Generic
- Risperdal
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Risperdal is FDA-approved for treating schizophrenia in adults and adolescents, bipolar mania or mixed episodes in adults and children, and irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents (ages 5-16). Off-label uses may include anxiety disorders and severe behavioral symptoms in other conditions.
Risperidone works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. This action helps regulate neurotransmitter activity associated with psychotic symptoms, mood regulation, and behavioral control.
Common side effects include weight gain, drowsiness, dizziness, and increased prolactin levels. May increase risk of metabolic changes, diabetes, and cardiovascular effects. Requires regular monitoring. Should not be stopped abruptly. Patients should avoid overheating and dehydration. Not approved for use in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis due to increased mortality risk.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy