- Class
- Antipsychotics
- Body system
- Mental health
- Brand names
- Risperdal, Risperdal Consta, Perseris, Uzedy, Rykindo
What is Risperidone used for?
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar mania
- Irritability associated with autism
How Risperidone works
Second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic: blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors.
Common side effects
- Weight gain, high blood sugar and high lipids (metabolic syndrome)
- Hyperprolactinemia: breast enlargement, milk discharge, missed periods
- Extrapyramidal symptoms at higher doses
- Orthostatic hypotension and sedation
Report right away
- Signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- Abnormal movements
- Excess thirst and urination (high blood sugar)
- Fever or sore throat
Nursing considerations for Risperidone
- Monitor weight, BMI, waist, blood glucose or A1C and lipids at baseline and regularly.
- Watch for orthostatic hypotension and falls, especially in older adults.
Patient teaching
- Healthy diet and regular activity help limit weight gain.
- Rise slowly. Avoid alcohol.
- Long-acting injections must be given on schedule.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Antipsychotics practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Risperidone belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A patient on haloperidol has a temperature of 104°F (40°C), rigid muscles and confusion. What does the nurse suspect?
Show answer
Answer D: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome Hyperthermia, lead-pipe rigidity, altered mental status and autonomic instability are the hallmarks of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
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Which monitoring is most important for a patient starting olanzapine?
Show answer
Answer B: Weight, blood glucose and lipids Second-generation antipsychotics, especially olanzapine and clozapine, cause weight gain and metabolic syndrome.
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A patient on clozapine reports a sore throat and fever. What is the priority?
Show answer
Answer B: Notify the provider and check the absolute neutrophil count Clozapine can cause severe neutropenia; signs of infection require an urgent ANC.
Frequently asked questions
What is Risperidone used for?
Schizophrenia; Bipolar mania; Irritability associated with autism.
What drug class is Risperidone?
Risperidone belongs to the class antipsychotics. Second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic: blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors.
What are the nursing considerations for Risperidone?
Monitor weight, BMI, waist, blood glucose or A1C and lipids at baseline and regularly. Watch for orthostatic hypotension and falls, especially in older adults.
What should patients report while taking Risperidone?
signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome; abnormal movements; excess thirst and urination (high blood sugar); fever or sore throat.