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Side Effects of Risperdal & Bipolar Disorder

Risperdal is an anti-psychotic often prescribed to patients who suffer from bipolar disorder to help control mania. There are many potential side effects of this medication, but they are mostly rarely occurring and manageable.

  1. Serious Side Effects

    • Some side effects of Risperdal are potentially very serious and should be reported immediately to your doctor, including: suicidal thoughts, diabetes-like symptoms such as increased urination and thirst, increased or uneven heart rate, hives, difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, dizziness, and serious weight loss or gain.

    Common Side Effects

    • The most common, less serious side effects of Risperdal for bipolar disorder treatment include increased appetite, drowsiness, light-headedness, insomnia and headache.

    Uncommon Side Effects

    • Uncommon, but still occasionally occurring, side effects include vertigo, nightmares, canker sores, hair loss, intestinal disturbance, asthma and excessive yawning.

    Pregnancy

    • It is unknown what effects, if any, Risperdal might have on an unborn baby, or if it can be passed along in breast milk, and therefore should be avoided by pregnant or nursing women.

    External Factors

    • Alcohol consumption and exposure to extreme temperatures can result in an increased likelihood of experiencing side effects from the medication.

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