Product Description

Risperidone Tablets IP 2 mg is an atypical (second-generation) antipsychotic medication used to treat mental health conditions by rebalancing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin in the brain. It is indicated for schizophrenia (hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, social withdrawal), acute manic or mixed episodes in bipolar I disorder (elevated mood, irritability, hyperactivity), and irritability associated with autistic disorder (aggression, self-injury, tantrums).

It improves thinking, mood, and behavior, but does not cure these conditions. Available in oral tablets for once- or twice-daily dosing; long-acting injectable forms exist separately. For adults and children/adolescents (specific ages per indication); requires prescription and monitoring due to metabolic and neurological risks.

Avoid if you have hypersensitivity to risperidone or paliperidone. Baseline weight, glucose, lipids, prolactin, and ECG are recommended.

Uses

Risperidone 2 mg Tablets IP are indicated for:

• Treatment of schizophrenia in adults and adolescents (13–17 years) to manage acute episodes and maintenance (reduces relapse by 50–70%)

• Acute management of manic or mixed episodes in bipolar I disorder in adults and children ≥10 years (short-term, up to 3 weeks; may extend with a mood stabilizer)

• Treatment of irritability in autistic disorder in children and adolescents 5–16 years (reduces aggression and self-harm)

Not for dementia-related psychosis (increased mortality risk) or as monotherapy in severe depression. Combine with psychotherapy for best outcomes; reassess every 3–6 months per APA guidelines.

How it works

Risperidone 2 mg tablets act as a serotonin-dopamine antagonist with high affinity for 5-HT2A receptors (over D2), giving an atypical profile with lower extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) than typical antipsychotics. It transiently binds D2 receptors in mesolimbic pathways (reducing positive symptoms like hallucinations) while modulating D2 in nigrostriatal (motor control) and mesocortical (cognition) areas. Antagonism at 5-HT2A enhances dopamine release in the prefrontal cortex (improving negative symptoms like apathy) and reduces serotonin-mediated mood instability. Additional effects on α1/2-adrenergic and H1-histamine receptors contribute to sedation and orthostasis. Steady-state levels reached in 5 days (t½ 20 hours); active metabolite 9-hydroxyrisperidone extends duration.

Benefits

Risperidone 2 mg Tablets effectively control psychotic symptoms (e.g., 40–60% PANSS score reduction in schizophrenia trials), stabilize mood in bipolar mania (response in 50–70%), and reduce irritability in autism (ABC-I subscale improvement by 50–70%). The atypical mechanism minimizes EPS and tardive dyskinesia risk compared to older antipsychotics, supporting long-term use for relapse prevention and functional improvement (e.g., better social engagement). Once- or twice-daily dosing aids adherence, and it may improve sleep and anxiety as adjunct benefits.

How to use

Follow doctor's prescription: The dosage will be determined by your doctor based on your specific condition, age, and response to the medication. Never change or stop your dose without consulting your doctor.

Take the tablets at the same time every day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. It is often recommended to take it once or twice daily with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew them. Avoid consuming alcohol while on Risperidone, as it can increase the sedative effects and enhance other side effects. Driving and machinery: Causes drowsiness or dizziness. Be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Side Effects

Most side effects are dose-related and manageable with monitoring or dose adjustment. Common side effects (affecting 10–30% of patients) include:

• Drowsiness, sedation, or dizziness (especially initial weeks)

• Weight gain (average 2–4 kg; monitor BMI)

• Hyperglycemia or elevated lipids (metabolic syndrome risk)

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation

• Increased prolactin (hyperprolactinemia: galactorrhea, gynecomastia, amenorrhea, sexual dysfunction)

Less common but notable side effects:

• Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS: tremor, akathisia, Parkinsonism—5–10%; treat with anticholinergics)

• Orthostatic hypotension (rise slowly)

Safety Advice

• Alcohol: Avoid, as it potentiates CNS depression (drowsiness, dizziness) and increases fall risk.

• Pregnancy: Category C (crosses placenta; animal studies show no teratogenicity, but human data limited—neonatal EPS/withdrawal possible). Use only if benefits outweigh risks (e.g., severe psychosis); effective contraception advised. Registry monitoring recommended.

• Breastfeeding: Avoid, as risperidone passes into milk (up to 5% of dose); may cause infant sedation or EPS. Pump/discard or use alternatives like quetiapine.

• Driving/Operating Machinery: May impair alertness (sedation/EPS); avoid until effects are known, especially starting or dose changes.

Storage Conditions

• Store at a temperature below 30°C (86°F), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and excessive moisture.

FAQs

Is this a cure for mental illness?

No, Risperidone controls symptoms but does not cure the underlying condition.

How long does it take for Risperidone to work?

The full benefit of Risperidone may take several weeks or longer.

Is Risperidone safe for children?

Risperidone is prescribed for specific conditions in children and adolescents, such as autism-associated irritability and bipolar disorder in certain age groups, under medical supervision.

How should Risperidone be taken?

Follow your doctor's instructions exactly, usually once or twice daily, with or without food. Swallow tablets whole.

What if I miss a dose?

Take a missed dose when remembered. If it's near the next dose, skip the missed one; do not double the dose.

Can I stop taking Risperidone on my own?

Do not stop taking Risperidone suddenly without your doctor's advice to avoid withdrawal or relapse.

Why is it sometimes taken at night?

Taking Risperidone at night can help with potential drowsiness and may improve sleep.