Risperdal - How long did it take to see an improvement? Were there any side-effects?

1 Mar 2011

Sophie0814,
Risperdal is an antipsychotic that is mainly used to ttreat psychotic disorders and irritability/aggression in autistic patients. I'm quite sure his doctor is prescribing it for that element as it will do nothing for his ADHD that I know of. Risperdal works well BUT it takes about3-4 weeks before you'll notice any major changes. Also, you have to be watchful for EPS (extrapyramidal symptoms) with Risperdal because it can produce them in some patients (EPS symptoms look like bizarre jaw and tongue movements, body stiffness, and/or tremors). Don't let this frighten you because it does NOT affect ALL patients this way; just keep in mind that if you notice anything like this you should call his doctor and inform him/her right away--- it's usually treated with a shot of Benadryl or Cogentin. Hope this helps. Post again if you have any more questions.