RISPERDAL
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE
FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR
OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO
INDICATE THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR
YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING RISPERDAL.
RISPERIDONE - ORAL (riss-PAIR-ih-doan)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Risperdal
USES:
RISPERDAL is used in the treatment of psychotic or mental
conditions.
HOW TO TAKE RISPERDAL:
Take RISPERDAL exactly as prescribed. During the first few days your
doctor may gradually increase your dose to allow your body to adjust
to the medication. Do not take this more often or increase your dose
without consulting your doctor. Your condition will not improve any
faster but the risk of serious side effects will be increased. Do
not stop taking RISPERDAL without your doctor's approval.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, increased dreaming, nervousness, loss
of appetite, dry mouth or fatigue may occur the first several days
as your body adjusts to the medication. Weight gain, vision changes,
decreased sexual desire and insomnia have also been reported. If any
of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify
your doctor if you develop:
rapid/pounding/irregular heartbeat, skin rash, itching, difficulty
moving, muscle stiffness, muscle spasms or twitching, sweating,
involuntary movements (especially about the face or tongue),
drooling, tremors, trouble swallowing, mental confusion, seizures.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, seizures, blood
disorders, breast cancer, swallowing difficulty, allergies
(especially drug allergies). Because RISPERDAL may cause drowsiness
or dizziness, use caution operating machinery or engaging in
activities requiring alertness such as driving. Dizziness on
standing may occur. To avoid dizziness or lightheadedness when
rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. RISPERDAL may
make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen when outdoors. Caution
is advised when using RISPERDAL in the elderly because they may be
more sensitive to the effects of the drug. RISPERDAL should be used
only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor. It is not known if RISPERDAL excreted
into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription
medication you may take, especially of:
sedatives, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), anti-anxiety
agents, antidepressants, muscle relaxers, medication for seizures.
It is recommended you avoid consuming alcohol while taking this
medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or
pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include
unusual drowsiness; rapid pulse; fainting; unusual muscle movement
or rigidity of the face, neck, or limbs; tremor; seizures; and loss
of consciousness.
NOTES:
Laboratory tests may be done periodically while taking RISPERDAL to
monitor the effects. See your doctor regularly.
MISSED DOSE:
Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose,
take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time
for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to
catch up.
STORAGE:
Store RISPERDAL at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F
(between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store
in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of
children.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For
information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In
Canada call 1-800-668-1507.
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