Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia in adults and children aged 13 and older, bipolar disorder (particularly acute manic or mixed episodes) in adults and children aged 10 and older, and irritability associated with autism in children aged 5 and older[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].
It works by balancing key brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, which affect thoughts, mood, and behavior[2][5][6][7].
- Schizophrenia: Used in adults and adolescents for managing symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and thought disturbances[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].
- Bipolar Disorder: Treats acute manic or mixed episodes, either alone or as an adjunct to other medications like lithium or valproate; also used in maintenance therapy with long-acting injectable forms[1][2][3][4][5][7].
- Autism-Associated Irritability: Prescribed to reduce aggression, temper outbursts, and self-injurious behavior in children with autism[1][2][3][4][5][7].
In certain cases, risperidone is also used off-label for other mental health conditions, such as severe dementia, conduct disorder, Tourette syndrome, adjunct therapy in treatment-resistant depression, and to manage agitation or aggression in various psychiatric or neurological disorders[1][3].
References
- [1] Risperidone – StatPearls
- [2] Risperidone (Risperdal, Risperdal Consta) – Uses, Side Effects
- [3] Risperidone: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action
- [4] Risperidone: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects
- [5] Risperidone – Wikipedia
- [6] Risperidone (Risperdal) – NAMI
- [7] Risperidone (Risperdal): Uses, Interactions & Side Effects