Information last reviewed: May 2026 — for educational purposes only.
What Is Risperdal (Risperidone)?
Risperidone, branded as Risperdal, is a second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic of the benzisoxazole class. It works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic pathway (reducing positive psychotic symptoms) and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors (reducing EPS risk and improving negative symptoms and mood). Risperidone has a moderate EPS profile at higher doses — more EPS than olanzapine and quetiapine but less than haloperidol. At therapeutic doses, it effectively controls hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorganisation in schizophrenia while also providing mood-stabilising properties in bipolar disorder.
Prescription (Rx) Status
Risperidone is prescription-only. Generic risperidone tablets and solution are widely available. Risperdal Consta — a biweekly long-acting injectable formulation — is available for schizophrenia maintenance. An FDA black-box warning applies for elderly dementia-related psychosis (increased mortality). Risperidone is also approved for paediatric schizophrenia (ages 13+), bipolar mania in children (ages 10+), and autism-associated irritability (ages 5+).
Uses of Risperidone
FDA-approved: schizophrenia (adults and adolescents), acute bipolar mania (with and without mixed features, as monotherapy or with lithium/valproate), and irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Off-label: dementia-related agitation (with cautious use), bipolar maintenance, and schizoaffective disorder.
Tablet Strengths
Risperidone oral tablets: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg. Oral solution: 1 mg/mL. Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) also available. Starting dose for schizophrenia: 1–2 mg/day initially; target 4–8 mg/day. Bipolar mania: 2–3 mg/day initially. Maximum: 16 mg/day. Lower doses in elderly.
Price
Generic risperidone is moderately priced. A 30-day supply of 2 mg tablets typically costs $20–$60. Risperdal brand is considerably more expensive. Risperdal Consta depot injections are costly without insurance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does risperidone cause weight gain?
A: Yes — moderate weight gain (2–3 kg on average) is common with risperidone, less than olanzapine but more than aripiprazole. Metabolic monitoring (blood glucose, lipids, weight) is recommended.
Q: Does risperidone cause prolactin elevation?
A: Yes — risperidone elevates prolactin significantly due to its tuberoinfundibular dopamine blockade, potentially causing galactorrhoea, menstrual irregularities, and sexual dysfunction.
Q: Is there an injectable form of risperidone?
A: Yes — Risperdal Consta is a long-acting injectable given every 2 weeks, improving adherence in patients with chronic schizophrenia who struggle with daily oral dosing.
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Risperidone requires a valid prescription. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional. See our full disclaimer.