• Risperdal is in a class of medications called atypical antipsychotics. It is used to treat schizophrenia and symptoms of bipolar disorder.

How should you take this medication?

• Risperdal may be taken with or without food. Do not take more or less of risperdal than prescribed. Higher doses are more likely to cause unwanted side effects.
   
• Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
   
• If you miss a dose of Risperdal , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

General Precautions with Risperdal

• Before having any kind of surgery, dental treatment, or emergency treatment, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are using this medicine.
   
• This medicine may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert or able to see clearly.
   
• Elderly patients treated with atypical antipsychotics, such as risperdal, for dementia had a higher chance for death than patients who did not take the medicine.
   
• Do not drink alcohol, it can increase some of the side effects of Risperdal.
   
• You should use Risperdal cautiously if you have kidney, liver, or heart disease, seizures, breast cancer, thyroid disorders, or any other diseases that affect the metabolism .

What are the possible side effects of Risperdal?

• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
   
• Continue taking risperdal and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects: dizziness, sleepiness, blurred vision, headache, weight gain, problems with urination, nausea, dry mouth, constipation, or decreased sex drive.