Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/31/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of risperidone can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of risperidone use include:

• Headache
  
• Dizziness
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Agitation
  
• Anxiety
  
• Tremors
  
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Upset stomach
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Excess saliva
  
• Weight gain
  
  

More severe side effects of risperidone use can include:

• Fever symptoms
  
• Cough or chills
  
• Muscle stiffness
  
• Confusion
  
• Tremors
  
• Uncontrolled muscle movements
  
• Feeling faint
  
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
  
• Breast swelling or tenderness (in men and women)
  
• Decreased sexual ability
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Increased thirst
  
• Increased urination
  
• Skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking risperidone, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with risperidone. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with risperidone.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Medication used to treat blood pressure
  
• Carbamazepine
  
• Clozapine
  
• Fluoxetine
  
• Paroxetine
  
• Levodopa
  
• Metoclopramide
  
• Amiodarone
  
• Antibiotics
  
• Opioid pain medications
  
• Medications for sleep
  
• Other medications to treat mood disorders
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• High blood pressure
  
• High cholesterol
  
• Heart conditions or heart disease
  
• Diabetes
  
• Dementia
  
• Low white blood cell count
  
• Seizures
  
• Osteoporosis
  
• Breast cancer
  
• Obesity
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Parkinson’s disease
  
• Liver or kidney disease
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using risperidone with your healthcare provider.

Take risperidone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or length of treatment.

Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how risperidone affects you.

Do not drink alcohol while using risperidone.

This medication can make you more sensitive to extreme temperatures. Talk to your provider if you plan to be in very hot or very cold temperatures. Drink plenty of water and other fluids while taking risperidone.

Risperidone can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and complete the full course of treatment to effectively manage your condition.

In case of a risperidone overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, rapid or unusual movements, dizziness, or fainting. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.