Risperdal

The information on this product's packaging is Turkish language only.

Uses
Risperdal (Risperidone) is an atypical antipsychotic medicine used to treat schizophrenia symptoms. It is widely believed that schizophrenia and other psychotic illnesses occur as a result of a disruption in the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. An overactivity of dopamine (a neurotransmitter) can cause hallucinations, delusions and other schizophrenia symptoms. By blocking the action of dopamine in the brain, this drug can help to relieve unusual thinking, hostile behaviour and emotional problems in patients suffering from schizophrenia. Other conditions which this drug has been used to treat include anxiety, depression, and irritability in patients with autism.

Dosage and Administration
Risperdal (Risperidone) tablets are taken orally. You will need to visit your doctor before starting treatment, so that the correct dosage can be prescribed. Adult patients who have been prescribed this medicine as a treatment for schizophrenia are sometimes told to start out with a dose of 2mg per day. This is usually taken as a single dose, or else as two divided doses. On the second day of treatment, the patient may be told to take 4mg per day. After this, the prescribing doctor may decide to increase the dosage, depending on the patient's response to treatment. Treatment of other conditions may require different dosage regimens.

Side effects
Patients taking Risperdal (Risperidone) tablets may sometimes experience side effects, such as:

• Weight gain
• Urination problems
• Hot or cold sensation
• Production of breastmilk
• Discolouration or dryness of the skin

You should tell your doctor if any side effects occur, especially if any symptoms are persistent or bothersome. In rare cases, patients may experience serious side effects which require immediate medical attention. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice a painful penis erection lasting for a prolonged period of time, stiff muscles, seizures, uncontrolled facial or bodily movements, fever or any other signs of a serious reaction.

Precautions
Older adults who suffer from dementia may be at an increased risk of serious and potentially fatal side effects if treated with this medication. Therefore, it is not used to treat patients in this category.

There is a risk of blood clots affecting the veins (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (known as pulmonary embolism). Also, a condition known as tardive dyskinesia, which causes uncontrolled body movements may occur in rare cases. Ask your doctor about all the risks of treatment before taking this medicine.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Risperdal (Risperidone) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.