A risperidone injection is a type of prescription medication that is injected into a muscle in order to treat mental disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. This injection is given by a health care professional and is usually injected into alternating buttocks once every two weeks. For the first two or three weeks of using the injectible form of this medication, the oral form may need to be taken as well. Possible side effects of the medication include irritation at the site of injection, dizziness, or constipation. Any specific questions or concerns about the use of the risperidone injection or potential side effects in an individual situation should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
The two medical conditions that are the most likely to be treated with the use of the risperidone injection are bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Bipolar disorder causes mood swings, erratic behavior, and alternating states of euphoria and depression. Schizophrenia may include symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, or a lack of emotion. In some cases, other mental or psychological issues may be treated with the use of a risperidone injection. The supervising physician will take a complete medical history before prescribing this drug, as those on certain medications or with some underlying medical conditions may not be candidates for this type of treatment.
Side effects associated with the risperidone injection are generally mild, although they may sometimes become severe enough to require discontinuation of the drug. This medication should not be abruptly discontinued except under close supervision by a doctor in order to avoid potentially serious complications. Mild skin irritation at the site of the injection is the most common side effect, and it tends to go away within minutes or hours following the injection. If the pain becomes severe or if swelling or red streaks appear, a doctor should be consulted for further medical evaluation. Any bothersome symptoms that develop after having a risperidone injection should be evaluated to make sure no serious complications are present.
Additional risperidone injection side effects may include dizziness, fatigue, or drowsiness. Extreme caution should be used when performing any activities that require extreme focus or concentration until the patient adjusts to the use of this medication. Some patients may experience constipation, indigestion, or changes in weight as a result of using this medication. Irregular heartbeat, seizures, or extreme mood changes should be reported to a doctor immediately. Symptoms of a rare but potentially life-threatening allergic reaction may include facial swelling, chest pain, or difficulty breathing and require emergency medical attention.