risperidone (Risperdal)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antipsychotic medication like risperidone (Risperdal) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder

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What is an antipsychotic?

Antipsychotics are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, like hearing and seeing things that other people do not, feeling paranoid, or having delusions.

How does an antipsychotic work?

Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine in the brain, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of psychotic symptoms.

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find a provider who meets your needs

    Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).

  • 2

    Meet 1:1 to begin treatment

    Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Attend sessions and start feeling better

    Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.

FAQs

What is risperidone (Risperdal) used for?

Risperidone (Risperdal) is used to treat schizophrenia, acute manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder, and irritability related to autism in some children.

Is risperidone (Risperdal) a controlled substance?

No—risperidone is not a controlled substance, habit-forming, or known to cause addiction. If you have questions about how risperidone works, talk with your provider.

Why take risperidone (Risperdal) at night?

Your provider may suggest taking risperidone at night if your dosage frequency is once per day because the medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or tiredness. These are some common side effects of the medication. In certain cases, though, you may need to take risperidone in the daytime if your dosage is twice per day. Until you know how taking risperidone affects you, don't drive or operate machinery. If tiredness or sleepiness don't go away and interfere with your daily life, talk with your provider.

What should I do when experiencing risperidone (Risperdal) withdrawals?

Suddenly stopping risperidone after taking it for some time may cause withdrawal symptoms, such as a worsening of your condition, anxiety, trouble sleeping, agitation, headache, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, and restlessness. You may experience withdrawal symptoms for several weeks after you stop risperidone. Don't stop taking the medication on your own without talking with your provider. If you need to stop the medication, they will work with you to gradually lower your dose until you can stop risperidone, which will lower your risk of having withdrawal symptoms. If you have withdrawal symptoms after stopping risperidone, call your provider to discuss ways to ease your symptoms. However, if you're having serious side effects after stopping risperidone, including a serious worsening of your mental health, call 911 and get medical help right away.

Does risperidone (Risperdal) cause weight gain or loss?

Yes, risperidone may cause weight gain; it is a common side effect of the medication. Some people may also experience other side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea with risperidone. If this is serious, it may cause some temporary weight loss. If you're concerned about weight gain or weight loss with risperidone, talk with your provider.

How long does it take for risperidone (Risperdal) to work?

Risperidone starts to work soon after you begin treatment, and you may notice some improvement in your symptoms within 1-2 weeks of taking risperidone consistently. However, it may take several weeks to months of taking risperidone for it to fully work to treat your condition. Don't stop taking the medication if you feel it's not working for you. Instead, talk with your provider. They can discuss whether you need a dosage adjustment or offer other options for you to consider.

Does risperidone (Risperdal) make you sleepy?

Yes, sleepiness, tiredness, and dizziness are common side effects of the medication. These may go away as you continue taking risperidone. However, until you know how the medication makes you feel, don't perform tasks that require alertness. If these side effects don't go away or are bothersome, talk with your provider.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published December 10, 2024

We offer psychiatry in these select states

Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.

Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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