Side Effects of Risperidone

Risperidone, the generic name of Risperdal, is used in the treatment for a variety of mental illnesses, including bipolar disorders and schizophrenia. While most of the side effects associated with risperidone are mild, there are reported cases of extreme side effects that should be considered prior to authorizing treatment with this drug.

Bowel Dysfunction

• Problems with the bowels, including diarrhea and constipation, have been noted by patients receiving risperidone.

Weight Gain or Loss

• A common side effect of risperidone treatment is an increase in weight. A less common side effect of treatment with risperidone is weight loss accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Sleeping Disorders

• Risperidone patients commonly complain of lethargy, feeling tired continuously and changes in their sleeping patterns. Patients suffering these side effects have also noticed an increase in the number of dream episodes they have while sleeping.

Skin Sensitivity to Light

• A significant number of risperidone patients have noticed an increased skin sensitivity to sunlight. This side effect also exhibits itself as a darkening of the skin's natural color.

Tardive Dyskinesia

• Tardive dyskinesia is a serious and fortunately rare side effect of risperidone treatment and results in involuntary movements of the body. In some cases, this side effect does not dissipate after the risperidone therapy is discontinued.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

• Another dangerous but rare side effect of risperidone treatment, neuroleptic malignant syndrome can cause seizure, changes in heart rate, difficulty in breathing and extreme muscular stiffness. These symptoms are often accompanied by fever, weakness and incontinence of the bladder.