Risperidone Oral

In Depth

(See also Side Effects section.) Also tell your doctor or pharmacist if either you or a family member has a history of the following:

diabetes
heart disease (e.g., heart attacks or ischemia, arrhythmias)
high blood cholesterol/triglyceride levels
high blood pressure
obesity

Risperidone may cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can infrequently result in serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that require immediate medical attention. The risk of QT prolongation may be increased if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other drugs that may affect the heart rhythm (see also Drug Interactions section). Before using risperidone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of the following conditions:

certain heart problems (heart failure, slow heartbeat, QT prolongation in the EKG)
family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death)

Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may increase if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/"water pills") or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Talk to your doctor about using risperidone safely.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.

This medication can reduce sweating. Heatstroke may occur if you become overheated during exercise or other physical activity or in hot weather. Drink plenty of liquids to avoid the risk of heatstroke.

Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially the lowering of blood pressure.

This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug is excreted into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

Risperidone Oral Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

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