Risperdal Consta
Generic Name: Risperidone
What is Risperdal Consta?
Risperdal Consta is a long-acting drug known as an "atypical antipsychotic." It is given by injection for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. It can also be used alone or as add-on therapy to lithium or valproate to treat bipolar disorder.What is the most important information I should know about Risperdal Consta?
Medicines like Risperdal Consta can raise the risk of stroke or death in elderly people who have memory loss (dementia). Risperdal Consta is not approved for treating psychosis in the elderly with dementia.Risperdal Consta may cause tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible condition that causes involuntary muscle spasms and twitches in the face and body. Elderly women appear to be at a higher risk for this condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you begin to have any involuntary muscle movements.
Risperdal Consta may cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially fatal condition marked by muscle stiffness or rigidity, fast heartbeat or irregular pulse, increased sweating, high fever, and blood pressure irregularities. Call your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Certain antipsychotic drugs, including Risperdal Consta, are associated with an increased risk of developing high blood sugar, which on rare occasions has led to coma or death. See your doctor right away if you develop signs of high blood sugar, including dry mouth, unusual thirst, increased urination, and fatigue.
Risperdal Consta may mask signs and symptoms of drug overdose and of conditions such as intestinal obstruction, brain tumor, and Reye's syndrome (a dangerous neurological condition that may follow viral infections, usually occurring in children). Risperdal may also cause difficulty when swallowing, which in turn can cause a type of pneumonia.
Risperdal Consta may affect the production of disease-fighting white blood cells. Call your doctor right away if you have any signs of a fever or infection.
In rare instances, Risperdal Consta has been shown to induce seizures. Caution should be used in patients with a history of seizures.
Risperdal Consta may rarely cause a prolonged, painful erection. This could happen even when you are not having sex. If this is not treated right away, it could lead to permanent sexual problems such as impotence. Contact your doctor right away if this happens.
Who should not take Risperdal Consta?
Risperdal Consta should not be used in elderly patients who have dementia due to an increased risk of stroke or death. Do not take Risperdal Consta if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.It is not known if Risperdal Consta is safe and effective in children younger than 18 years old.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Risperdal Consta?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Risperdal Consta. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have breast cancer; liver, kidney, or heart disease; high or low blood pressure; heart rhythm problems; a history of heart attack or stroke; seizures; alcohol or substance abuse or dependence; diabetes or elevated blood sugar; Alzheimer's disease or dementia; stomach or bowel problems; a history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome; a history of suicidal thoughts; Parkinson's disease; trouble swallowing; signs of an infections such as fever; or a low white blood cell count. In addition, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The recommended dose for treating schizophrenia or bipolar disorder is 25 milligrams (mg) given by intramuscular injection every 2 weeks. A lower starting dose may be needed if you have liver or kidney problems or are taking certain medications.
How should I take Risperdal Consta?
Risperdal Consta will be injected into your arm or buttock muscle by your healthcare provider. As directed by your doctor, Risperdal tablets that are taken by mouth will be given with the first injection of Risperdal Consta and continued for 3 weeks to make sure the blood levels of Risperdal Consta are adequate. Call your doctor if you do not think you are getting better or if you have any concerns about your condition while taking Risperdal Consta.What should I avoid while taking Risperdal Consta?
Risperdal may make you sleepy and could impair judgment or motor skills. Avoid driving, operating dangerous machinery, or doing any activities that require full alertness until you know how this medication affects you.Do not drink alcohol while taking Risperdal Consta; this could make you sleepier than usual. Also check with your doctor before taking medicines that may cause drowsiness (such as sleep aids or muscle relaxers).
Risperdal Consta may lower blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. When sitting or lying down, stand up slowly to avoid any feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.
Avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding during your treatment with Risperdal Consta and for at least 12 weeks after receiving your last injection.
Because Risperdal Consta may make you more sensitive to heat, avoid getting overheated or dehydrated. Do not over-exercise. In hot weather, stay inside in a cool place if possible. Stay out of the sun and drink plenty of water. Call your doctor right away if you become severely ill or develop symptoms of dehydration (e.g., dizziness, headache, or dark-colored urine).
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Risperdal Consta?
If Risperdal Consta is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Risperdal Consta with the following: alcohol, carbamazepine, cimetidine, clozapine, dopamine agonists, high blood pressure medicines or other medicines that lower your blood pressure, fluoxetine, levodopa, paroxetine, ranitidine, and valproate.What are the possible side effects of Risperdal Consta?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: cerebrovascular events (e.g., stroke), neuroleptic malignant syndrome (stiff muscles, altered mental state, irregular pulse, irregular blood pressure, increase in heart rate, irregular heartbeat), seizures, involuntary movements, high blood sugar and diabetes, low white blood cell count, dizziness upon standing, suicidal thoughts, impaired judgment, infections, upset stomach
Risperdal Consta may increase the amount of a certain hormone (prolactin) in your blood. Symptoms may include enlarged breasts, missed menstrual period, decreased sexual ability, or nipple discharge. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.
Can I receive Risperdal Consta if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Risperdal Consta during pregnancy are unknown. Avoid taking it if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not breastfeed while taking Risperdal Consta since it can pass into breast milk.What should I do if I miss a dose of Risperdal Consta?
Risperdal Consta should be given under special circumstances determined by your doctor. If you miss your scheduled dose, it is best to speak to your healthcare provider for advice. Keep all follow-up visits with your doctor.How should I store Risperdal Consta?
You healthcare provider will store Risperdal Consta.
