Antipsychotic drug Risperdal under scrutiny for causing abnormal breast growth in boys

Medication for Treating Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder: Risperdal Exposed for Links to Gynecomastia in Boys and Men

Risperidone, commonly known as Risperdal, is an atypical antipsychotic medication. It is used to treat symptoms of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and irritability related to autistic disorder.

Before taking Risperdal, it is crucial to inform your doctor if you have an allergy to Risperdal or to paliperidone, or any other allergies. Additionally, it is essential to inform your doctor if you have ever had a decrease in white blood cells, Parkinson's Disease, high cholesterol levels, or high or low blood pressure.

It is also important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter. This is to ensure that Risperdal will not interact negatively with any other medications you are currently taking.

Risperdal can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Therefore, it is advisable not to use machinery, drive a motor vehicle, or perform any activities requiring alertness until you are confident you can perform them safely. Also, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while taking Risperdal.

Taking Risperdal may help with thinking clearly and participating in everyday life. However, it should be taken as directed, and it can be taken with or without food. It is usually taken once or twice a day.

Side effects of Risperdal may include sleepiness, constipation, nausea, dizziness, sore throat, drooling, weight gain, coughing, lightheadedness, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, anxiety, restlessness, difficulty swallowing, shuffling walk, twitching movements, fever, and heartburn.

If you experience any severe side effects such as fainting, a fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, fever, stiff muscles, sweating, tremors, or trouble swallowing, call your doctor immediately.

Risperdal is available in liquid, tablet, and orally disintegrating tablet forms. It is crucial to keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture.

It is important to note that this medication passes into breast milk and could have harmful effects on a nursing baby. Therefore, do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Moreover, Risperdal may also be used to treat depression in combination with other medications. However, it should not be administered to a child.

The manufacturer of the drug Risperidone is JANSSEN-CILAG GmbH. If any side effects become bothersome, contact your doctor. In case of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. If you have any questions or concerns about Risperdal, always consult with your healthcare provider.