Product Description

Risperidone 4 mg and Trihexyphenidyl 2 mg Tablets combine an atypical antipsychotic (risperidone) with an anticholinergic agent (trihexyphenidyl) to manage schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. Risperidone treats core symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and mood disturbances by modulating dopamine and serotonin neurotransmission. Trihexyphenidyl helps prevent and reduce extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) like muscle stiffness, tremors, and restlessness, which are common side effects of antipsychotic therapy. This combination improves patient compliance and quality of life by addressing both psychosis and motor side effects.

Uses

• Management of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders.

• Control of extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) induced by antipsychotic medications.

• It may be used in other psychotic or mood disorders as prescribed by a doctor.

How it works

• Risperidone (4 mg): An atypical antipsychotic that antagonizes dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, balancing neurotransmitter activity to reduce psychotic symptoms and stabilize mood.

• Trihexyphenidyl (2 mg): An anticholinergic agent that blocks muscarinic receptors in the central nervous system, reducing cholinergic overactivity responsible for EPS such as rigidity, tremors, and akathisia.

Together, they provide effective symptom control while minimizing motor side effects.

Benefits

• Rapid and effective control of positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia.

• Reduction of EPS symptoms, improving patient comfort, and adherence.

• Stabilization of mood and behavior, reducing impulsivity and aggression.

• Improved overall quality of life for patients with psychotic disorders.

How to use

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor based on your condition, age, and response.

• Usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food.

• Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water; do not crush, break, or chew.

• Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may increase sedation and dizziness.

• Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

• Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor to avoid relapse or withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness, sedation, dizziness

• Weight gain

• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation

• Increased prolactin levels (may cause breast swelling, milk production, menstrual irregularities)

• Orthostatic hypotension (lightheadedness or fainting on standing)

• Blurred vision

• Dry mouth (due to trihexyphenidyl)

• Urinary retention (due to anticholinergic effect)

• Constipation

Less common but serious side effects:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling of face/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing)

• Extrapyramidal symptoms (if trihexyphenidyl dose insufficient)

• Tachycardia or palpitations

• Confusion or memory problems (especially in the elderly)

• Increased risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)

• Priapism (prolonged painful erection requiring emergency care)

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), increasing choking risk

Safety Advice

1) Inform your doctor if you have:

• Heart problems (stroke, heart failure, arrhythmias)

• Diabetes or risk factors for blood sugar abnormalities

• Seizures or epilepsy (risperidone may lower seizure threshold)

• Parkinson’s disease or dementia with Lewy bodies (risperidone often not recommended)

• Kidney or liver disease

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (both drugs pass into breast milk; avoid breastfeeding)

2) Drink plenty of fluids and maintain a fiber-rich diet to manage dry mouth and constipation.

3) Regular monitoring of blood sugar, weight, and cardiovascular status is recommended.

4) Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants.

5) Use caution when driving or operating machinery due to sedation and dizziness.

Storage Conditions

• Store at a temperature below 30°C (86°F) in a cool, dry place.

FAQs

What happens if a dose is missed?

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if the next dose is soon, skip the missed one and continue the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

Can this medication be stopped abruptly?

No, this medication should not be stopped suddenly without consulting a doctor. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms or lead to a relapse.

Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking this medication?

This medication can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision. Driving, operating heavy machinery, or performing tasks requiring mental alertness should be avoided until the medication's effects are known.

Are there any dietary restrictions?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.

Staying hydrated and eating a fiber-rich diet can help with constipation.

What are the signs of an overdose?

An overdose of this medication can be serious and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include: