Risperdal/Risperdal Consta

Risperidone.

RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA contains risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic belonging to the chemical class of benzisoxazole derivatives. The chemical designation is 3-[2-[4-(6-fluoro-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl)-1-piperidinyl]ethyl]-6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-2-methyl-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one. Its molecular formula is C₂₃H₂₇FN₄O₂ and its molecular weight is 410.49.
Risperidone is a white to slightly beige powder. It is practically insoluble in water, freely soluble in methylene chloride, and soluble in methanol and 0.1 N HCl.
Risperdal: RISPERDAL Tablets are for oral administration and available in 1 mg (white), 2 mg (slightly orange), 3 mg (yellow), and 4 mg (green) strengths. RISPERDAL tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, and starch (corn). The 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg tablets also contain talc and titanium dioxide. The 2 mg tablets contain FD&C Yellow No. 6 Aluminum Lake; the 3 mg and 4 mg tablets contain D&C Yellow No. 10; the 4 mg tablets contain FD&C Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake.
RISPERDAL is also available as a 1 mg/mL oral solution. RISPERDAL Oral Solution contains the following inactive ingredients: tartaric acid, benzoic acid, sodium hydroxide, and purified water.
Risperdal Consta: RISPERDAL CONSTA (risperidone) Long-Acting Injection is a combination of extended‑release microspheres for injection and diluent for parenteral use.
The extended-release microspheres formulation is a white to off-white, free-flowing powder that is available in dosage strengths of 25 mg, 37.5 mg, or 50 mg risperidone per vial. Risperidone is micro-encapsulated in 7525 polylactide-co-glycolide (PLG) at a concentration of 381 mg risperidone per gram of microspheres.
The diluent for parenteral use is a clear, colorless solution. Composition of the diluent includes citric acid anhydrous, disodium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, polysorbate 20, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide, and water for injection. The microspheres are suspended in the diluent prior to injection.
RISPERDAL CONSTA is provided as a dose pack, consisting of a vial containing the microspheres, a pre-filled syringe containing the diluent, a vial adapter, and two Terumo SurGuard 3 Needles (a 21 G UTW 1-inch needle with needle protection device for deltoid administration and a 20 G TW 2-inch needle with needle protection device for gluteal administration).

Pharmacology: Mechanism of Action: The mechanism of action of risperidone in schizophrenia is unclear. The drug's therapeutic activity in schizophrenia could be mediated through a combination of dopamine Type 2 (D₂) and serotonin Type 2 (5HT₂) receptor antagonism. The clinical effect from risperidone results from the combined concentrations of risperidone and its major active metabolite, 9-hydroxyrisperidone (paliperidone) [see Pharmacokinetics as follows]. Antagonism at receptors other than D₂ and 5HT₂ may explain some of the other effects of risperidone [see Pharmacodynamics as follows].
Pharmacodynamics: Risperidone is a monoaminergic antagonist with high affinity (Ki of 0.12 to 7.3 nM) for the serotonin Type 2 (5HT₂), dopamine Type 2 (D₂), α1 and α2 adrenergic, and H₁ histaminergic receptors. Risperidone showed low to moderate affinity (Ki of 47 to 253 nM) for the serotonin 5HT_1C, 5HT_1D, and 5HT_1A receptors, weak affinity (Ki of 620 to 800 nM) for the dopamine D₁ and haloperidol-sensitive sigma site, and no affinity (when tested at concentrations >10^-5 M) for cholinergic muscarinic or β1 and β2 adrenergic receptors.
Clinical Studies: Risperdal: Schizophrenia: Adults: Short-Term Efficacy: The efficacy of RISPERDAL in the treatment of schizophrenia was established in four short-term (4- to 8-week) controlled trials of psychotic inpatients who met DSM‑III-R criteria for schizophrenia.
Several instruments were used for assessing psychiatric signs and symptoms in these studies, among them the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), a multi-item inventory of general psychopathology traditionally used to evaluate the effects of drug treatment in schizophrenia. The BPRS psychosis cluster (conceptual disorganization, hallucinatory behavior, suspiciousness, and unusual thought content) is considered a particularly useful subset for assessing actively psychotic schizophrenic patients. A second traditional assessment, the Clinical Global Impression (CGI), reflects the impression of a skilled observer, fully familiar with the manifestations of schizophrenia, about the overall clinical state of the patient. In addition, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Scale for Assessing Negative Symptoms (SANS) were employed.
The results of the trials follow: (1) In a 6-week, placebo-controlled trial (n=160) involving titration of RISPERDAL in doses up to 10 mg/day (twice-daily schedule), RISPERDAL was generally superior to placebo on the BPRS total score, on the BPRS psychosis cluster, and marginally superior to placebo on the SANS.
(2) In an 8-week, placebo-controlled trial (n=513) involving 4 fixed doses of RISPERDAL (2 mg/day, 6 mg/day, 10 mg/day, and 16 mg/day, on a twice-daily schedule), all 4 RISPERDAL groups were generally superior to placebo on the BPRS total score, BPRS psychosis cluster, and CGI severity score; the 3 highest RISPERDAL dose groups were generally superior to placebo on the PANSS negative subscale. The most consistently positive responses on all measures were seen for the 6 mg dose group, and there was no suggestion of increased benefit from larger doses.
(3) In an 8-week, dose comparison trial (n=1356) involving 5 fixed doses of RISPERDAL (1 mg/day, 4 mg/day, 8 mg/day, 12 mg/day, and 16 mg/day, on a twice-daily schedule), the four highest RISPERDAL dose groups were generally superior to the 1 mg RISPERDAL dose group on BPRS total score, BPRS psychosis cluster, and CGI severity score. None of the dose groups were superior to the 1 mg group on the PANSS negative subscale. The most consistently positive responses were seen for the 4 mg dose group.
(4) In a 4-week, placebo-controlled dose comparison trial (n=246) involving 2 fixed doses of RISPERDAL (4 and 8 mg/day on a once-daily schedule), both RISPERDAL dose groups were generally superior to placebo on several PANSS measures, including a response measure (>20% reduction in PANSS total score), PANSS total score, and the BPRS psychosis cluster (derived from PANSS). The results were generally stronger for the 8 mg than for the 4 mg dose group.
Long-Term Efficacy: In a longer-term trial, 365 adult outpatients predominantly meeting DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia and who had been clinically stable for at least 4 weeks on an antipsychotic medication were randomized to RISPERDAL (2-8 mg/day) or to an active comparator, for 1 to 2 years of observation for relapse. Patients receiving RISPERDAL experienced a significantly longer time to relapse over this time period compared to those receiving the active comparator.
Pediatrics: The efficacy of RISPERDAL in the treatment of schizophrenia in adolescents aged 13-17 years was demonstrated in two short-term (6 and 8 weeks), double-blind controlled trials. All patients met DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia and were experiencing an acute episode at time of enrollment. In the first trial (study #1), patients were randomized into one of three treatment groups: RISPERDAL 1-3 mg/day (n = 55, mean modal dose = 2.6 mg), RISPERDAL 4-6 mg/day (n = 51, mean modal dose = 5.3 mg), or placebo (n = 54). In the second trial (study #2), patients were randomized to either RISPERDAL 0.15‑0.6 mg/day (n = 132, mean modal dose = 0.5 mg) or RISPERDAL 1.5-6 mg/day (n = 125, mean modal dose = 4 mg). In all cases, study medication was initiated at 0.5 mg/day (with the exception of the 0.15-0.6 mg/day group in study #2, where the initial dose was 0.05 mg/day) and titrated to the target dosage range by approximately Day 7. Subsequently, dosage was increased to the maximum tolerated dose within the target dose range by Day 14. The primary efficacy variable in all studies was the mean change from baseline in total PANSS score.
Results of the studies demonstrated efficacy of RISPERDAL in all dose groups from 1‑6 mg/day compared to placebo, as measured by significant reduction of total PANSS score. The efficacy on the primary parameter in the 1-3 mg/day group was comparable to the 4‑6 mg/day group in study #1, and similar to the efficacy demonstrated in the 1.5-6 mg/day group in study #2. In study #2, the efficacy in the 1.5-6 mg/day group was statistically significantly greater than that in the 0.15-0.6 mg/day group. Doses higher than 3 mg/day did not reveal any trend towards greater efficacy.
Bipolar Mania - Monotherapy: Adults: The efficacy of RISPERDAL in the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes was established in two short-term (3-week) placebo-controlled trials in patients who met the DSM-IV criteria for Bipolar I Disorder with manic or mixed episodes. These trials included patients with or without psychotic features.
The primary rating instrument used for assessing manic symptoms in these trials was the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), an 11-item clinician-rated scale traditionally used to assess the degree of manic symptomatology (irritability, disruptive/aggressive behavior, sleep, elevated mood, speech, increased activity, sexual interest, language/thought disorder, thought content, appearance, and insight) in a range from 0 (no manic features) to 60 (maximum score). The primary outcome in these trials was change from baseline in the YMRS total score. The results of the trials follow: (1) In one 3-week placebo-controlled trial (n=246), limited to patients with manic episodes, which involved a dose range of RISPERDAL 1-6 mg/day, once daily, starting at 3 mg/day (mean modal dose was 4.1 mg/day), RISPERDAL was superior to placebo in the reduction of YMRS total score.
(2) In another 3-week placebo-controlled trial (n=286), which involved a dose range of 1‑6 mg/day, once daily, starting at 3 mg/day (mean modal dose was 5.6 mg/day), RISPERDAL was superior to placebo in the reduction of YMRS total score.
Pediatrics: The efficacy of RISPERDAL in the treatment of mania in children or adolescents with Bipolar I disorder was demonstrated in a 3-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial including patients ranging in ages from 10 to 17 years who were experiencing a manic or mixed episode of bipolar I disorder. Patients were randomized into one of three treatment groups: RISPERDAL 0.5-2.5 mg/day (n = 50, mean modal dose = 1.9 mg), RISPERDAL 3-6 mg/day (n = 61, mean modal dose = 4.7 mg), or placebo (n = 58). In all cases, study medication was initiated at 0.5 mg/day and titrated to the target dosage range by Day 7, with further increases in dosage to the maximum tolerated dose within the targeted dose range by Day 10. The primary rating instrument used for assessing efficacy in this study was the mean change from baseline in the total YMRS score.
Results of this study demonstrated efficacy of RISPERDAL in both dose groups compared with placebo, as measured by significant reduction of total YMRS score. The efficacy on the primary parameter in the 3-6 mg/day dose group was comparable to the 0.5-2.5 mg/day dose group. Doses higher than 2.5 mg/day did not reveal any trend towards greater efficacy.
Bipolar Mania - Adjunctive Therapy with Lithium or Valproate: The efficacy of RISPERDAL with concomitant lithium or valproate in the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes was established in one controlled trial in adult patients who met the DSM-IV criteria for Bipolar I Disorder. This trial included patients with or without psychotic features and with or without a rapid-cycling course.
(1) In this 3-week placebo-controlled combination trial, 148 in- or outpatients on lithium or valproate therapy with inadequately controlled manic or mixed symptoms were randomized to receive RISPERDAL, placebo, or an active comparator, in combination with their original therapy. RISPERDAL, in a dose range of 1-6 mg/day, once daily, starting at 2 mg/day (mean modal dose of 3.8 mg/day), combined with lithium or valproate (in a therapeutic range of 0.6 mEq/L to 1.4 mEq/L or 50 mcg/mL to 120 mcg/mL, respectively) was superior to lithium or valproate alone in the reduction of YMRS total score.
(2) In a second 3-week placebo-controlled combination trial, 142 in- or outpatients on lithium, valproate, or carbamazepine therapy with inadequately controlled manic or mixed symptoms were randomized to receive RISPERDAL or placebo, in combination with their original therapy. RISPERDAL, in a dose range of 1‑6 mg/day, once daily, starting at 2 mg/day (mean modal dose of 3.7 mg/day), combined with lithium, valproate, or carbamazepine (in therapeutic ranges of 0.6 mEq/L to 1.4 mEq/L for lithium, 50 mcg/mL to 125 mcg/mL for valproate, or 4-12 mcg/mL for carbamazepine, respectively) was not superior to lithium, valproate, or carbamazepine alone in the reduction of YMRS total score. A possible explanation for the failure of this trial was induction of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone clearance by carbamazepine, leading to subtherapeutic levels of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone.
Irritability Associated with Autistic Disorder: Short-Term Efficacy: The efficacy of RISPERDAL in the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder was established in two 8-week, placebo-controlled trials in children and adolescents (aged 5 to 16 years) who met the DSM-IV criteria for autistic disorder. Over 90% of these subjects were under 12 years of age and most weighed over 20 kg (16-104.3 kg).
Efficacy was evaluated using two assessment scales: the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) and the Clinical Global Impression - Change (CGI-C) scale. The primary outcome measure in both trials was the change from baseline to endpoint in the Irritability subscale of the ABC (ABC-I). The ABC-I subscale measured the emotional and behavioral symptoms of autism, including aggression towards others, deliberate self-injuriousness, temper tantrums, and quickly changing moods. The CGI-C rating at endpoint was a co-primary outcome measure in one of the studies.
The results of these trials are as follows: (1) In one of the 8-week, placebo-controlled trials, children and adolescents with autistic disorder (n=101), aged 5 to 16 years, received twice daily doses of placebo or RISPERDAL 0.5-3.5 mg/day on a weight‑adjusted basis. RISPERDAL, starting at 0.25 mg/day or 0.5 mg/day depending on baseline weight (< 20 kg and ≥ 20 kg, respectively) and titrated to clinical response (mean modal dose of 1.9 mg/day, equivalent to 0.06 mg/kg/day), significantly improved scores on the ABC-I subscale and on the CGI-C scale compared with placebo.
(2) In the other 8-week, placebo-controlled trial in children with autistic disorder (n=55), aged 5 to 12 years, RISPERDAL 0.02 to 0.06 mg/kg/day given once or twice daily, starting at 0.01 mg/kg/day and titrated to clinical response (mean modal dose of 0.05 mg/kg/day, equivalent to 1.4 mg/day), significantly improved scores on the ABC-I subscale compared with placebo.
A third trial was a 6-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a lower than recommended dose of risperidone in subjects (N=96) 5 to 17 years of age with autistic disorder (defined by DSM-IV criteria) and associated irritability and related behavioral symptoms. Approximately 77% of patients were younger than 12 years of age (mean age = 9), and 88% were male. Most patients (73%) weighed less than 45 kg (mean weight = 40 kg). Approximately 90% of patients were antipsychotic-naïve before entering the study.
There were two weight-based, fixed doses of risperidone (high-dose and low-dose). The high dose was 1.25 mg per day for patients weighing 20 to < 45 kg, and it was 1.75 mg per day for patients weighing > 45 kg. The low dose was 0.125 mg per day for patients weighing 20 to < 45 kg, and it was 0.175 mg per day for patients weighing > 45 kg. The dose was administered once daily in the morning, or in the evening if sedation occurred.
The primary efficacy endpoint was the mean change in the Aberrant Behavior Checklist - Irritability subscale (ABC-I) score from baseline to the end of Week 6. The study demonstrated the efficacy of high-dose risperidone, as measured by the mean change in ABC-I score. It did not demonstrate efficacy for low-dose risperidone. The mean baseline ABC-I scores were 29 in the placebo group (n = 35), 27 in the risperidone low-dose group (n = 30), and 28 in the risperidone high-dose group (n = 31). The mean changes in ABC-I scores were -3.5, -7.4, and -12.4 in the placebo, low-dose, and high-dose group respectively. The results in the high-dose group were statistically significant (p<0.001) but not in the low-dose group (p=0.164).
Long-Term Efficacy: Following completion of the first 8-week double-blind study, 63 patients entered an open-label study extension where they were treated with RISPERDAL for 4 or 6 months (depending on whether they received RISPERDAL or placebo in the double-blind study). During this open-label treatment period, patients were maintained on a mean modal dose of RISPERDAL of 1.8‑2.1 mg/day (equivalent to 0.05 - 0.07 mg/kg/day).
Patients who maintained their positive response to RISPERDAL (response was defined as ≥ 25% improvement on the ABC-I subscale and a CGI-C rating of 'much improved' or 'very much improved') during the 4-6 month open-label treatment phase for about 140 days, on average, were randomized to receive RISPERDAL or placebo during an 8‑week, double-blind withdrawal study (n=39 of the 63 patients). A pre-planned interim analysis of data from patients who completed the withdrawal study (n=32), undertaken by an independent Data Safety Monitoring Board, demonstrated a significantly lower relapse rate in the RISPERDAL group compared with the placebo group. Based on the interim analysis results, the study was terminated due to demonstration of a statistically significant effect on relapse prevention. Relapse was defined as ≥ 25% worsening on the most recent assessment of the ABC-I subscale (in relation to baseline of the randomized withdrawal phase).
Risperdal Consta: Schizophrenia: The effectiveness of RISPERDAL CONSTA in the treatment of schizophrenia was established, in part, on the basis of extrapolation from the established effectiveness of the oral formulation of risperidone. In addition, the effectiveness of RISPERDAL CONSTA in the treatment of schizophrenia was established in a 12-week, placebo-controlled trial in adult psychotic inpatients and outpatients who met the DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia.
Efficacy data were obtained from 400 patients with schizophrenia who were randomized to receive injections of 25 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA or placebo every 2 weeks. During a 1-week run-in period, patients were discontinued from other antipsychotics and were titrated to a dose of 4 mg oral RISPERDAL. Patients who received RISPERDAL CONSTA were given doses of oral RISPERDAL (2 mg for patients in the 25-mg group, 4 mg for patients in the 50-mg group, and 6 mg for patients in the 75-mg group) for the 3 weeks after the first injection to provide therapeutic plasma concentrations until the main release phase of risperidone from the injection site had begun. Patients who received placebo injections were given placebo tablets.
Efficacy was evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), a validated, multi-item inventory, composed of five subscales to evaluate positive symptoms, negative symptoms, disorganized thoughts, uncontrolled hostility/excitement, and anxiety/depression.
The primary efficacy variable in this trial was change from baseline to endpoint in the total PANSS score. The mean total PANSS score at baseline for schizophrenic patients in this study was 81.5.
Total PANSS scores showed significant improvement in the change from baseline to endpoint in schizophrenic patients treated with each dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA (25 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg) compared with patients treated with placebo. While there were no statistically significant differences between the treatment effects for the three dose groups, the effect size for the 75 mg dose group was actually numerically less than that observed for the 50 mg dose group.
Subgroup analyses did not indicate any differences in treatment outcome as a function of age, race, or gender.
Bipolar Disorder - Monotherapy: The effectiveness of RISPERDAL CONSTA for the maintenance treatment of Bipolar I Disorder was established in a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of adult patients who met DSM-IV criteria for Bipolar Disorder Type I, who were stable on medications or experiencing an acute manic or mixed episode.
A total of 501 patients were treated during a 26-week open-label period with RISPERDAL CONSTA (starting dose of 25 mg, and titrated, if deemed clinically desirable, to 37.5 mg or 50 mg; in patients not tolerating the 25 mg dose, the dose could be reduced to 12.5 mg). In the open-label phase, 303 (60%) patients were judged to be stable and were randomized to double-blind treatment with either the same dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA or placebo and monitored for relapse. The primary endpoint was time to relapse to any mood episode (depression, mania, hypomania, or mixed).
Time to relapse was delayed in patients receiving RISPERDAL CONSTA monotherapy as compared to placebo. The majority of relapses were due to manic rather than depressive symptoms. Based on their bipolar disorder history, subjects entering this study had had, on average, more manic episodes than depressive episodes.
Bipolar Disorder - Adjunctive Therapy: The effectiveness of RISPERDAL CONSTA as an adjunct to treatment with lithium or valproate for the maintenance treatment of Bipolar Disorder was established in a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of adult patients who met DSM-IV criteria for Bipolar Disorder Type I and who experienced at least 4 episodes of mood disorder requiring psychiatric/clinical intervention in the previous 12 months, including at least 2 episodes in the 6 months prior to the start of the study.
A total of 240 patients were treated during a 16-week open-label period with RISPERDAL CONSTA (starting dose of 25 mg, and titrated, if deemed clinically desirable, to 37.5 mg or 50 mg), as adjunctive therapy in addition to continuing their treatment as usual for their bipolar disorder, which consisted of mood stabilizers (primarily lithium and valproate), antidepressants, and/or anxiolytics. All oral antipsychotics were discontinued after the first three weeks of the initial RISPERDAL CONSTA injection. In the open-label phase, 124 (51.7%) were judged to be stable for at least the last 4 weeks and were randomized to double-blind treatment with either the same dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA or placebo in addition to continuing their treatment as usual and monitored for relapse during a 52-week period. The primary endpoint was time to relapse to any new mood episode (depression, mania, hypomania, or mixed).
Time to relapse was delayed in patients receiving adjunctive therapy with RISPERDAL CONSTA as compared to placebo. The relapse types were about half depressive and half manic or mixed episodes.
Pharmacokinetics: Absorption: Risperdal: Risperidone is well absorbed. The absolute oral bioavailability of risperidone is 70% (CV=25%). The relative oral bioavailability of risperidone from a tablet is 94% (CV=10%) when compared to a solution.
Pharmacokinetic studies showed that RISPERDAL Oral Solution is bioequivalent to RISPERDAL Tablets.
Plasma concentrations of risperidone, its major metabolite, 9-hydroxyrisperidone, and risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone are dose proportional over the dosing range of 1 to 16 mg daily (0.5 to 8 mg twice daily). Following oral administration of solution or tablet, mean peak plasma concentrations of risperidone occurred at about 1 hour. Peak concentrations of 9‑hydroxyrisperidone occurred at about 3 hours in extensive metabolizers, and 17 hours in poor metabolizers. Steady-state concentrations of risperidone are reached in 1 day in extensive metabolizers and would be expected to reach steady-state in about 5 days in poor metabolizers. Steady-state concentrations of 9-hydroxyrisperidone are reached in 5-6 days (measured in extensive metabolizers).
Food Effect: Food does not affect either the rate or extent of absorption of risperidone. Thus, RISPERDAL can be given with or without meals.
Risperdal Consta: After a single intramuscular (gluteal) injection of RISPERDAL CONSTA, there is a small initial release of the drug (< 1% of the dose), followed by a lag time of 3 weeks. The main release of the drug starts from 3 weeks onward, is maintained from 4 to 6 weeks, and subsides by 7 weeks following the intramuscular (IM) injection. Therefore, oral antipsychotic supplementation should be given during the first 3 weeks of treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA to maintain therapeutic levels until the main release of risperidone from the injection site has begun [see Dosage & Administration]. Following single doses of RISPERDAL CONSTA, the pharmacokinetics of risperidone, 9-hydroxyrisperidone (the major metabolite), and risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone were linear in the dosing range of 12.5 mg to 50 mg.
The combination of the release profile and the dosage regimen (IM injections every 2 weeks) of RISPERDAL CONSTA results in sustained therapeutic concentrations. Steady-state plasma concentrations are reached after 4 injections and are maintained for 4 to 6 weeks after the last injection. Following multiple doses of 25 mg and 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA, plasma concentrations of risperidone, 9-hydroxyrisperidone, and risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone were linear.
Deltoid and gluteal intramuscular injections at the same doses are bioequivalent and, therefore, interchangeable.
Distribution: Risperidone is rapidly distributed. The volume of distribution is 1-2 L/kg. In plasma, risperidone is bound to albumin and α1-acid glycoprotein. The plasma protein binding of risperidone is 90%, and that of its major metabolite, 9-hydroxyrisperidone, is 77%. Neither risperidone nor 9‑hydroxyrisperidone displaces each other from plasma binding sites. High therapeutic concentrations of sulfamethazine (100 mcg/mL), warfarin (10 mcg/mL), and carbamazepine (10 mcg/mL) caused only a slight increase in the free fraction of risperidone at 10 ng/mL and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone at 50 ng/mL, changes of unknown clinical significance.
Metabolism and Drug Interactions: Risperidone is extensively metabolized in the liver. The main metabolic pathway is through hydroxylation of risperidone to 9-hydroxyrisperidone by the enzyme, CYP 2D6. A minor metabolic pathway is through N-dealkylation. The main metabolite, 9-hydroxyrisperidone, has similar pharmacological activity as risperidone. Consequently, the clinical effect of the drug results from the combined concentrations of risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone.
CYP 2D6, also called debrisoquin hydroxylase, is the enzyme responsible for metabolism of many neuroleptics, antidepressants, antiarrhythmics, and other drugs. CYP 2D6 is subject to genetic polymorphism (about 6%-8% of Caucasians, and a very low percentage of Asians, have little or no activity and are "poor metabolizers") and to inhibition by a variety of substrates and some non-substrates, notably quinidine. Extensive CYP 2D6 metabolizers convert risperidone rapidly into 9‑hydroxyrisperidone, whereas poor CYP 2D6 metabolizers convert it much more slowly. Although extensive metabolizers have lower risperidone and higher 9‑hydroxyrisperidone concentrations than poor metabolizers, the pharmacokinetics of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone combined, after single and multiple doses, are similar in extensive and poor metabolizers.
Risperidone could be subject to two kinds of drug-drug interactions. First, inhibitors of CYP 2D6 interfere with conversion of risperidone to 9-hydroxyrisperidone [see Interactions]. This occurs with quinidine, giving essentially all recipients a risperidone pharmacokinetic profile typical of poor metabolizers. The therapeutic benefits and adverse effects of risperidone in patients receiving quinidine have not been evaluated, but observations in a modest number (n≅70) of poor metabolizers given oral RISPERDAL do not suggest important differences between poor and extensive metabolizers. Second, co-administration of known enzyme inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and phenobarbital) with oral RISPERDAL may cause a decrease in the combined plasma concentrations of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone [see Interactions]. It would also be possible for risperidone to interfere with metabolism of other drugs metabolized by CYP 2D6. Relatively weak binding of risperidone to the enzyme suggests this is unlikely [see Interactions].
Risperdal: In vitro studies indicate that risperidone is a relatively weak inhibitor of CYP 2D6. Therefore, RISPERDAL is not expected to substantially inhibit the clearance of drugs that are metabolized by this enzymatic pathway. In drug interaction studies, RISPERDAL did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of donepezil and galantamine, which are metabolized by CYP 2D6.
In vitro studies demonstrated that drugs metabolized by other CYP isozymes, including 1A1, 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4, are only weak inhibitors of risperidone metabolism.
Risperdal Consta: The interactions of RISPERDAL CONSTA with coadministration of other drugs have not been systematically evaluated in human subjects. Drug interactions are based primarily on experience with oral RISPERDAL.
Excretion: Risperidone and its metabolites are eliminated via the urine and, to a much lesser extent, via the feces. As illustrated by a mass balance study of a single 1 mg oral dose of ¹⁴C-risperidone administered as solution to three healthy male volunteers, total recovery of radioactivity at 1 week was 84%, including 70% in the urine and 14% in the feces.
Risperdal: The apparent half-life of risperidone was 3 hours (CV=30%) in extensive metabolizers and 20 hours (CV=40%) in poor metabolizers. The apparent half-life of 9-hydroxyrisperidone was about 21 hours (CV=20%) in extensive metabolizers and 30 hours (CV=25%) in poor metabolizers. The pharmacokinetics of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone combined, after single and multiple doses, were similar in extensive and poor metabolizers, with an overall mean elimination half-life of about 20 hours.
Risperdal Consta: The apparent half-life of risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone following RISPERDAL CONSTA administration is 3 to 6 days, and is associated with a monoexponential decline in plasma concentrations. This half-life of 3-6 days is related to the erosion of the microspheres and subsequent absorption of risperidone. The clearance of risperidone and risperidone plus 9‑hydroxyrisperidone was 13.7 L/h and 5.0 L/h in extensive CYP 2D6 metabolizers, and 3.3 L/h and 3.2 L/h in poor CYP 2D6 metabolizers, respectively. No accumulation of risperidone was observed during long-term use (up to 12 months) in patients treated every 2 weeks with 25 mg or 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA. The elimination phase is complete approximately 7 to 8 weeks after the last injection.
Specific Populations: Race and Gender Effects: No specific pharmacokinetic study was conducted to investigate race and gender effects, but a population pharmacokinetic analysis did not identify important differences in the disposition of risperidone due to gender (whether or not corrected for body weight) or race.
Risperdal: Renal and Hepatic Impairment: See Precautions.
Elderly: In healthy elderly subjects, renal clearance of both risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone was decreased, and elimination half-lives were prolonged compared to young healthy subjects. Dosing should be modified accordingly in the elderly patients [see Precautions].
Pediatric: The pharmacokinetics of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone in children were similar to those in adults after correcting for the difference in body weight.
Risperdal Consta: Renal Impairment: In patients with moderate to severe renal disease treated with oral RISPERDAL, clearance of the sum of risperidone and its active metabolite decreased by 60% compared with young healthy subjects. Although patients with renal impairment were not studied with RISPERDAL CONSTA, it is recommended that patients with renal impairment be carefully titrated on oral RISPERDAL before treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA is initiated at a dose of 25 mg. A lower initial dose of 12.5 mg may be appropriate when clinical factors warrant dose adjustment, such as in patients with renal impairment [see Dosage & Administration].
Hepatic Impairment: While the pharmacokinetics of oral RISPERDAL in subjects with liver disease were comparable to those in young healthy subjects, the mean free fraction of risperidone in plasma was increased by about 35% because of the diminished concentration of both albumin and α1-acid glycoprotein. Although patients with hepatic impairment were not studied with RISPERDAL CONSTA, it is recommended that patients with hepatic impairment be carefully titrated on oral RISPERDAL before treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA is initiated at a dose of 25 mg. A lower initial dose of 12.5 mg may be appropriate when clinical factors warrant dose adjustment, such as in patients with hepatic impairment [see Dosage & Administration].
Elderly: In an open-label trial, steady-state concentrations of risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone in otherwise healthy elderly patients (≥ 65 years old) treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA for up to 12 months fell within the range of values observed in otherwise healthy nonelderly patients. Dosing recommendations are the same for otherwise healthy elderly patients and nonelderly patients [see Dosage & Administration].
Toxicology: Nonclinical Toxicology: Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: Carcinogenesis: Oral: Risperidone was administered in the diet at doses of 0.63, 2.5, and 10 mg/kg for 18 months to mice and for 25 months to rats. These doses are equivalent to approximately 0.2, 0.75, and 3 times (mice) and 0.4, 1.5, and 6 times (rats) the MRHD of 16 mg/day, based on mg/m² body surface area. A maximum tolerated dose was not achieved in male mice. There were statistically significant increases in pituitary gland adenomas, endocrine pancreatic adenomas, and mammary gland adenocarcinomas. The following table summarizes the multiples of the human dose on a mg/m² (mg/kg) basis at which these tumors occurred. (See Table 1.)

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Antipsychotic drugs have been shown to chronically elevate prolactin levels in rodents. Serum prolactin levels were not measured during the risperidone carcinogenicity studies; however, measurements during subchronic toxicity studies showed that risperidone elevated serum prolactin levels 5-6 fold in mice and rats at the same doses used in the carcinogenicity studies. An increase in mammary, pituitary, and endocrine pancreas neoplasms has been found in rodents after chronic administration of other antipsychotic drugs and is considered to be prolactin‑mediated. The relevance for human risk of the findings of prolactin‑mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is unclear [see Precautions].
Risperdal Consta: Intramuscular: Risperidone was evaluated in a 24-month carcinogenicity study in which SPF Wistar rats were treated every 2 weeks with intramuscular (IM) injections of either 5 mg/kg or 40 mg/kg of risperidone. These doses are 1 and 8 times the MRHD (50 mg) on a mg/m² basis. A control group received injections of 0.9% NaCl, and a vehicle control group was injected with placebo microspheres. There was a significant increase in pituitary gland adenomas, endocrine pancreas adenomas, and adrenomedullary pheochromocytomas at 8 times the IM MRHD on a mg/m² basis. The incidence of mammary gland adenocarcinomas was significantly increased in female rats at both doses (1 and 8 times the IM MRHD on a mg/m² basis). A significant increase in renal tubular tumors (adenoma, adenocarcinomas) was observed in male rats at 8 times the IM MRHD on a mg/m² basis. Plasma exposures (AUC) in rats were 0.3 and 2 times (at 5 and 40 mg/kg, respectively) the expected plasma exposure (AUC) at the IM MRHD.
Dopamine D₂ receptor antagonists have been shown to chronically elevate prolactin levels in rodents. Serum prolactin levels were not measured during the carcinogenicity studies of oral risperidone; however, measurements taken during subchronic toxicity studies showed that oral risperidone elevated serum prolactin levels 5- to 6-fold in mice and rats at the same doses used in the oral carcinogenicity studies. Serum prolactin levels increased in a dose-dependent manner up to 6- and 1.5-fold in male and female rats, respectively, at the end of the 24-month treatment with risperidone every 2 weeks IM. Increases in the incidence of pituitary gland, endocrine pancreas, and mammary gland neoplasms have been found in rodents after chronic administration of other antipsychotic drugs and may be prolactin-mediated.
The relevance for human risk of the findings of prolactin-mediated endocrine tumors in rodents is unknown [see Precautions].
Mutagenesis: No evidence of mutagenic or clastogenic potential for risperidone was found in the in vitro tests of Ames gene mutation, the mouse lymphoma assay, rat hepatocyte DNA-repair assay, the chromosomal aberration test in human lymphocytes, Chinese hamster ovary cells, or in the in vivo oral micronucleus test in mice and the sex-linked recessive lethal test in Drosophila.
Risperdal Consta: In addition, no evidence of mutagenic potential was found in the in vitro Ames reverse mutation test for RISPERDAL CONSTA.
Impairment of Fertility: Oral risperidone (0.16 to 5 mg/kg) impaired mating, but not fertility, in rat reproductive studies at doses 0.1 to 3 times the MRHD of 16 mg/day based on mg/m² body surface area. The effect appeared to be in females, since impaired mating behavior was not noted in the male fertility study. In a subchronic study in Beagle dogs in which oral risperidone was administered orally at doses of 0.31 to 5 mg/kg, sperm motility and concentration were decreased at doses 0.6 to 10 times the MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area. Dose-related decreases were also noted in serum testosterone at the same doses. Serum testosterone and sperm parameters partially recovered, but remained decreased after treatment was discontinued. A no‑effect dose could not be determined in either rat or dog.

Risperdal: Schizophrenia: RISPERDAL (risperidone) is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia. Efficacy was established in 4 short-term trials in adults, 2 short-term trials in adolescents (ages 13 to 17 years), and one long-term maintenance trial in adults [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Bipolar Mania: Monotherapy: RISPERDAL is indicated for the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Efficacy was established in 2 short-term trials in adults and one short-term trial in children and adolescents (ages 10 to 17 years) [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Adjunctive Therapy: RISPERDAL adjunctive therapy with lithium or valproate is indicated for the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Efficacy was established in one short-term trial in adults [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Irritability Associated with Autistic Disorder: RISPERDAL is indicated for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder, including symptoms of aggression towards others, deliberate self-injuriousness, temper tantrums, and quickly changing moods. Efficacy was established in 3 short-term trials in children and adolescents (ages 5 to 17 years) [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Risperdal Consta: Schizophrenia: RISPERDAL CONSTA (risperidone) is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Bipolar Disorder: RISPERDAL CONSTA is indicated as monotherapy or as adjunctive therapy to lithium or valproate for the maintenance treatment of Bipolar I Disorder [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].

Risperdal: See Table 2.

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Severe Renal and Hepatic Impairment in Adults: Use a lower starting dose of 0.5 mg twice daily. May increase to dosages above 1.5 mg twice daily at intervals of one week or longer.
Schizophrenia: Adults: Usual Initial Dose: RISPERDAL can be administered once or twice daily. Initial dosing is 2 mg per day. May increase the dose at intervals of 24 hours or greater, in increments of 1 to 2 mg per day, as tolerated, to a recommended dose of 4 to 8 mg per day. In some patients, slower titration may be appropriate. Efficacy has been demonstrated in a range of 4 mg to 16 mg per day. However, doses above 6 mg per day for twice daily dosing were not demonstrated to be more efficacious than lower doses, were associated with more extrapyramidal symptoms and other adverse effects, and are generally not recommended. In a single study supporting once-daily dosing, the efficacy results were generally stronger for 8 mg than for 4 mg. The safety of doses above 16 mg per day has not been evaluated in clinical trials [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Adolescents: The initial dose is 0.5 mg once daily, administered as a single-daily dose in the morning or evening. The dose may be adjusted at intervals of 24 hours or greater, in increments of 0.5 mg or 1 mg per day, as tolerated, to a recommended dose of 3 mg per day. Although efficacy has been demonstrated in studies of adolescent patients with schizophrenia at doses between 1 mg to 6 mg per day, no additional benefit was observed above 3 mg per day, and higher doses were associated with more adverse events. Doses higher than 6 mg per day have not been studied.
Patients experiencing persistent somnolence may benefit from administering half the daily dose twice daily.
Maintenance Therapy: While it is unknown how long a patient with schizophrenia should remain on RISPERDAL, the effectiveness of RISPERDAL 2 mg per day to 8 mg per day at delaying relapse was demonstrated in a controlled trial in adult patients who had been clinically stable for at least 4 weeks and were then followed for a period of 1 to 2 years [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions]. Both adult and adolescent patients who respond acutely should generally be maintained on their effective dose beyond the acute episode. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.
Reinitiation of Treatment in Patients Previously Discontinued: Although there are no data to specifically address reinitiation of treatment, it is recommended that after an interval off RISPERDAL, the initial titration schedule should be followed.
Switching From Other Antipsychotics: There are no systematically collected data to specifically address switching schizophrenic patients from other antipsychotics to RISPERDAL, or treating patients with concomitant antipsychotics.
Bipolar Mania: Usual Dose: Adults: The initial dose range is 2 mg to 3 mg per day. The dose may be adjusted at intervals of 24 hours or greater, in increments of 1 mg per day. The effective dose range is 1 mg to 6 mg per day, as studied in the short-term, placebo-controlled trials. In these trials, short-term (3 week) anti-manic efficacy was demonstrated in a flexible dosage range of 1 mg to 6 mg per day [see Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions]. RISPERDAL doses higher than 6 mg per day were not studied.
Pediatrics: The initial dose is 0.5 mg once daily, administered as a single-daily dose in the morning or evening. The dose may be adjusted at intervals of 24 hours or greater, in increments of 0.5 mg or 1 mg per day, as tolerated, to the recommended target dose of 1 mg to 2.5 mg per day. Although efficacy has been demonstrated in studies of pediatric patients with bipolar mania at doses between 0.5 mg and 6 mg per day, no additional benefit was observed above 2.5 mg per day, and higher doses were associated with more adverse events. Doses higher than 6 mg per day have not been studied.
Patients experiencing persistent somnolence may benefit from administering half the daily dose twice daily.
Maintenance Therapy: There is no body of evidence available from controlled trials to guide a clinician in the longer-term management of a patient who improves during treatment of an acute manic episode with RISPERDAL. While it is generally agreed that pharmacological treatment beyond an acute response in mania is desirable, both for maintenance of the initial response and for prevention of new manic episodes, there are no systematically obtained data to support the use of RISPERDAL in such longer-term treatment (i.e., beyond 3 weeks). The physician who elects to use RISPERDAL for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term risks and benefits of the drug for the individual patient.
Irritability Associated with Autistic Disorder - Pediatrics (Children and Adolescents): The dosage of RISPERDAL should be individualized according to the response and tolerability of the patient. The total daily dose of RISPERDAL can be administered once daily, or half the total daily dose can be administered twice daily.
For patients with body weight less than 20 kg, initiate dosing at 0.25 mg per day. For patients with body weight greater than or equal to 20 kg, initiate dosing at 0.5 mg per day. After a minimum of four days, the dose may be increased to the recommended dose of 0.5 mg per day for patients less than 20 kg and 1.0 mg per day for patients greater than or equal to 20 kg. Maintain this dose for a minimum of 14 days. In patients not achieving sufficient clinical response, the dose may be increased at intervals of 2 weeks or greater, in increments of 0.25 mg per day for patients less than 20 kg, or increments of 0.5 mg per day for patients greater than or equal to 20 kg. The effective dose range is 0.5 mg to 3 mg per day. No dosing data are available for children who weigh less than 15 kg.
Once sufficient clinical response has been achieved and maintained, consider gradually lowering the dose to achieve the optimal balance of efficacy and safety. The physician who elects to use RISPERDAL for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term risks and benefits of the drug for the individual patient.
Patients experiencing persistent somnolence may benefit from a once‑daily dose administered at bedtime or administering half the daily dose twice daily, or a reduction of the dose.
Dosing in Patients with Severe Renal or Hepatic Impairment: For patients with severe renal impairment (CLcr < 30 mL/min) or hepatic impairment (10-15 points on Child Pugh System), the initial starting dose is 0.5 mg twice daily. The dose may be increased in increments of 0.5 mg or less, administered twice daily. For doses above 1.5 mg twice daily, increase in intervals of one week or greater [see Precautions].
Dose Adjustments for Specific Drug Interactions: When RISPERDAL is co-administered with enzyme inducers (e.g., carbamazepine), the dose of RISPERDAL should be increased up to double the patient's usual dose. It may be necessary to decrease the RISPERDAL dose when enzyme inducers such as carbamazepine are discontinued [see Interactions]. Similar effect may be expected with co-administration of RISPERDAL with other enzyme inducers (e.g., phenytoin, rifampin, and phenobarbital).
When fluoxetine or paroxetine is co-administered with RISPERDAL, the dose of RISPERDAL should be reduced. The RISPERDAL dose should not exceed 8 mg per day in adults when co-administered with these drugs. When initiating therapy, RISPERDAL should be titrated slowly. It may be necessary to increase the RISPERDAL dose when enzyme inhibitors such as fluoxetine or paroxetine are discontinued [see Interactions].
Administration of RISPERDAL Oral Solution: RISPERDAL Oral Solution can be administered directly from the calibrated pipette, or can be mixed with a beverage prior to administration. RISPERDAL Oral Solution is compatible in the following beverages: water, coffee, orange juice, and low-fat milk; it is NOT compatible with either cola or tea.
Risperdal Consta: For patients who have never taken oral RISPERDAL, it is recommended to establish tolerability with oral RISPERDAL prior to initiating treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA.
RISPERDAL CONSTA should be administered every 2 weeks by deep intramuscular (IM) deltoid or gluteal injection. Each injection should be administered by a health care professional using the appropriate enclosed safety needle [see Instructions for Use under Cautions for Usage]. For deltoid administration, use the 1-inch needle alternating injections between the two arms. For gluteal administration, use the 2-inch needle alternating injections between the two buttocks. Do not administer intravenously.
Schizophrenia: The recommended dose for the treatment of schizophrenia is 25 mg IM every 2 weeks. Although dose response for effectiveness has not been established for RISPERDAL CONSTA, some patients not responding to 25 mg may benefit from a higher dose of 37.5 mg or 50 mg. The maximum dose should not exceed 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA every 2 weeks. No additional benefit was observed with dosages greater than 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA; however, a higher incidence of adverse effects was observed.
The efficacy of RISPERDAL CONSTA in the treatment of schizophrenia has not been evaluated in controlled clinical trials for longer than 12 weeks. Although controlled studies have not been conducted to answer the question of how long patients with schizophrenia should be treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA, oral risperidone has been shown to be effective in delaying time to relapse in longer-term use. It is recommended that responding patients be continued on treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA at the lowest dose needed. The physician who elects to use RISPERDAL CONSTA for extended periods should periodically re‑evaluate the long-term risks and benefits of the drug for the individual patient.
Bipolar Disorder: The recommended dose for monotherapy or adjunctive therapy to lithium or valproate for the maintenance treatment of Bipolar I Disorder is 25 mg IM every 2 weeks. Some patients may benefit from a higher dose of 37.5 mg or 50 mg. Dosages above 50 mg have not been studied in this population. The physician who elects to use RISPERDAL CONSTA for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term risks and benefits of the drug for the individual patient.
General Dosing Information: A lower initial dose of 12.5 mg may be appropriate when clinical factors warrant dose adjustment, such as in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, for certain drug interactions that increase risperidone plasma concentrations [see Interactions] or in patients who have a history of poor tolerability to psychotropic medications. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials.
Oral RISPERDAL (or another antipsychotic medication) should be given with the first injection of RISPERDAL CONSTA and continued for 3 weeks (and then discontinued) to ensure that adequate therapeutic plasma concentrations are maintained prior to the main release phase of risperidone from the injection site [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions].
Upward dose adjustment should not be made more frequently than every 4 weeks. The clinical effects of this dose adjustment should not be anticipated earlier than 3 weeks after the first injection with the higher dose.
In patients with clinical factors such as hepatic or renal impairment or certain drug interactions that increase risperidone plasma concentrations [see Interactions], dose reduction as low as 12.5 mg may be appropriate. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials.
Do not combine two different dose strengths of RISPERDAL CONSTA in a single administration.
Dosage in Special Populations: Elderly: For elderly patients treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA, the recommended dosage is 25 mg IM every 2 weeks. Oral RISPERDAL (or another antipsychotic medication) should be given with the first injection of RISPERDAL CONSTA and should be continued for 3 weeks to ensure that adequate therapeutic plasma concentrations are maintained prior to the main release phase of risperidone from the injection site [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions].
Renal or Hepatic Impairment: Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should be treated with titrated doses of oral RISPERDAL prior to initiating treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA. The recommended starting dose is 0.5 mg oral RISPERDAL twice daily during the first week, which can be increased to 1 mg twice daily or 2 mg once daily during the second week. If a total daily dose of at least 2 mg oral RISPERDAL is well tolerated, an injection of 25 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA can be administered every 2 weeks. Oral supplementation should be continued for 3 weeks after the first injection until the main release of risperidone from the injection site has begun. In some patients, slower titration may be medically appropriate. Alternatively, a starting dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA of 12.5 mg may be appropriate. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials.
Patients with renal impairment may have less ability to eliminate risperidone than normal adults. Patients with impaired hepatic function may have an increase in the free fraction of the risperidone, possibly resulting in an enhanced effect [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions]. Elderly patients and patients with a predisposition to hypotensive reactions or for whom such reactions would pose a particular risk should be instructed in nonpharmacologic interventions that help to reduce the occurrence of orthostatic hypotension (e.g., sitting on the edge of the bed for several minutes before attempting to stand in the morning and slowly rising from a seated position). These patients should avoid sodium depletion or dehydration, and circumstances that accentuate hypotension (alcohol intake, high ambient temperature, etc.). Monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered [see Precautions].
Reinitiation of Treatment in Patients Previously Discontinued: There are no data to specifically address reinitiation of treatment. When restarting patients who have had an interval off treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA, supplementation with oral RISPERDAL (or another antipsychotic medication) should be administered.
Switching from Other Antipsychotics: There are no systematically collected data to specifically address switching patients from other antipsychotics to RISPERDAL CONSTA, or concerning concomitant administration with other antipsychotics. Previous antipsychotics should be continued for 3 weeks after the first injection of RISPERDAL CONSTA to ensure that therapeutic concentrations are maintained until the main release phase of risperidone from the injection site has begun [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions]. For patients who have never taken oral RISPERDAL, it is recommended to establish tolerability with oral RISPERDAL prior to initiating treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA. As recommended with other antipsychotic medications, the need for continuing existing EPS medication should be re-evaluated periodically.
Co-Administration of RISPERDAL CONSTA with Certain Other Medications: Co-administration of carbamazepine and other CYP 3A4 enzyme inducers (e.g., phenytoin, rifampin, phenobarbital) with risperidone would be expected to cause decreases in the plasma concentrations of the sum of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone combined, which could lead to decreased efficacy of RISPERDAL CONSTA treatment. The dose of risperidone needs to be titrated accordingly for patients receiving these enzyme inducers, especially during initiation or discontinuation of therapy with these inducers [see Interactions]. At the initiation of therapy with carbamazepine or other known CYP 3A4 hepatic enzyme inducers, patients should be closely monitored during the first 4-8 weeks, since the dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA may need to be adjusted. A dose increase, or additional oral RISPERDAL, may need to be considered. On discontinuation of carbamazepine or other CYP 3A4 hepatic enzyme inducers, the dosage of RISPERDAL CONSTA should be re-evaluated and, if necessary, decreased. Patients may be placed on a lower dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA between 2 to 4 weeks before the planned discontinuation of carbamazepine or other CYP 3A4 inducers to adjust for the expected increase in plasma concentrations of risperidone plus 9‑hydroxyrisperidone. For patients treated with the recommended dose of 25 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA and discontinuing from carbamazepine or other CYP 3A4 enzyme inducers, it is recommended to continue treatment with the 25-mg dose unless clinical judgment necessitates lowering the RISPERDAL CONSTA dose to 12.5 mg or necessitates interruption of RISPERDAL CONSTA treatment. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials.
Fluoxetine and paroxetine, CYP 2D6 inhibitors, have been shown to increase the plasma concentration of risperidone 2.5-2.8 fold and 3-9 fold respectively. Fluoxetine did not affect the plasma concentration of 9-hydroxyrisperidone. Paroxetine lowered the concentration of 9‑hydroxyrisperidone by about 10%. The dose of risperidone needs to be titrated accordingly when fluoxetine or paroxetine is co-administered. When either concomitant fluoxetine or paroxetine is initiated or discontinued, the physician should re-evaluate the dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA. When initiation of fluoxetine or paroxetine is considered, patients may be placed on a lower dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA between 2 to 4 weeks before the planned start of fluoxetine or paroxetine therapy to adjust for the expected increase in plasma concentrations of risperidone. When fluoxetine or paroxetine is initiated in patients receiving the recommended dose of 25 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA, it is recommended to continue treatment with the 25 mg dose unless clinical judgment necessitates lowering the RISPERDAL CONSTA dose to 12.5 mg or necessitates interruption of RISPERDAL CONSTA treatment. When RISPERDAL CONSTA is initiated in patients already receiving fluoxetine or paroxetine, a starting dose of 12.5 mg can be considered. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials. The effects of discontinuation of concomitant fluoxetine or paroxetine therapy on the pharmacokinetics of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidonehave not been studied. [See Interactions.]

Human Experience: In premarketing experience with oral RISPERDAL, there were eight reports of acute RISPERDAL overdosage, with estimated doses ranging from 20 to 300 mg and no fatalities. In general, reported signs and symptoms were those resulting from an exaggeration of the drug's known pharmacological effects, i.e., drowsiness and sedation, tachycardia and hypotension, and extrapyramidal symptoms. One case, involving an estimated overdose of 240 mg, was associated with hyponatremia, hypokalemia, prolonged QT, and widened QRS. Another case, involving an estimated overdose of 36 mg, was associated with a seizure.
Postmarketing experience with oral RISPERDAL includes reports of acute overdose, with estimated doses of up to 360 mg. In general, the most frequently reported signs and symptoms are those resulting from an exaggeration of the drug's known pharmacological effects, i.e., drowsiness, sedation, tachycardia, hypotension, and extrapyramidal symptoms. Other adverse reactions reported since market introduction related to oral RISPERDAL overdose include prolonged QT interval and convulsions. Torsade de pointes has been reported in association with combined overdose of oral RISPERDAL and paroxetine.
Risperdal Consta: No cases of overdose were reported in premarketing studies with RISPERDAL CONSTA. Because RISPERDAL CONSTA is to be administered by health care professionals, the potential for overdosage by patients is low.
Management of Overdosage: Risperdal: For the most up to date information on the management of RISPERDAL overdosage, contact the physician. Provide supportive care including close medical supervision and monitoring. Treatment should consist of general measures employed in the management of overdosage with any drug. Consider the possibility of multiple drug overdosage. Ensure an adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation. Monitor cardiac rhythm and vital signs. Use supportive and symptomatic measures. There is no specific antidote to RISPERDAL.
Risperdal Consta: In case of acute overdosage, establish and maintain an airway and ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Cardiovascular monitoring should commence immediately and should include continuous electrocardiographic monitoring to detect possible arrhythmias. If antiarrhythmic therapy is administered, disopyramide, procainamide, and quinidine carry a theoretical hazard of QT prolonging effects that might be additive to those of risperidone. Similarly, it is reasonable to expect that the alpha-blocking properties of bretylium might be additive to those of risperidone, resulting in problematic hypotension.
There is no specific antidote to risperidone. Therefore, appropriate supportive measures should be instituted. The possibility of multiple drug involvement should be considered. Hypotension and circulatory collapse should be treated with appropriate measures, such as intravenous fluids and/or sympathomimetic agents (epinephrine and dopamine should not be used, since beta stimulation may worsen hypotension in the setting of risperidone-induced alpha blockade). In cases of severe extrapyramidal symptoms, anticholinergic medication should be administered. Close medical supervision and monitoring should continue until the patient recovers.

RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to either risperidone or paliperidone, or to any of the excipients in the RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA formulation. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactic reactions and angioedema, have been reported in patients treated with risperidone and in patients treated with paliperidone. Paliperidone is a metabolite of risperidone.

Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis. [See Precautions.]

Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks), largely in patients taking atypical antipsychotic drugs, revealed a risk of death in drug-treated patients of between 1.6 to 1.7 times the risk of death in placebo-treated patients. Over the course of a typical 10‑week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated patients was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group. Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. Observational studies suggest that, similar to atypical antipsychotic drugs, treatment with conventional antipsychotic drugs may increase mortality. The extent to which the findings of increased mortality in observational studies may be attributed to the antipsychotic drug as opposed to some characteristic(s) of the patients is not clear.
RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA (risperidone) is not approved for the treatment of dementia‑related psychosis [see Warnings].
Risperdal: In two of four placebo-controlled trials in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, a higher incidence of mortality was observed in patients treated with furosemide plus RISPERDAL when compared to patients treated with RISPERDAL alone or with placebo plus furosemide. No pathological mechanism has been identified to explain this finding, and no consistent pattern for cause of death was observed.
Cerebrovascular Adverse Events, Including Stroke, in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: Cerebrovascular adverse events (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack), including fatalities, were reported in patients (mean age 85 years; range 73-97) in trials of oral risperidone in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. In placebo‑controlled trials, there was a significantly higher incidence of cerebrovascular adverse events in patients treated with risperidone compared to patients treated with placebo. RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis. [See Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis as previously mentioned and Warnings.]
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Antipsychotic drugs can cause a potentially fatal symptom complex referred to as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). Clinical manifestations of NMS include hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase (CPK), myoglobinuria, rhabdomyolysis, and acute renal failure.
The diagnostic evaluation of patients with this syndrome is complicated. In arriving at a diagnosis, it is important to identify cases in which the clinical presentation includes both serious medical illness (e.g., pneumonia, systemic infection, etc.) and untreated or inadequately treated extrapyramidal signs and symptoms (EPS). Other important considerations in the differential diagnosis include central anticholinergic toxicity, heat stroke, drug fever, and primary central nervous system pathology.
The management of NMS should include: (1) immediate discontinuation of antipsychotic drugs and other drugs not essential to concurrent therapy; (2) intensive symptomatic treatment and medical monitoring; and (3) treatment of any concomitant serious medical problems for which specific treatments are available. There is no general agreement about specific pharmacological treatment regimens for uncomplicated NMS.
If a patient requires antipsychotic drug treatment after recovery from NMS, the potential reintroduction of drug therapy should be carefully considered. The patient should be carefully monitored, since recurrences of NMS have been reported.
Tardive Dyskinesia: A syndrome of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs.
The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible are believed to increase as the duration of treatment and the total cumulative dose of antipsychotic drugs administered to the patient increase. However, the syndrome can develop, although much less commonly, after relatively brief treatment periods at low doses.
The syndrome may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is withdrawn. Antipsychotic treatment, itself, however, may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome and thereby may possibly mask the underlying process. The effect that symptomatic suppression has upon the long-term course of the syndrome is unknown.
Given these considerations, RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA should be prescribed in a manner that is most likely to minimize the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia. Chronic antipsychotic treatment should generally be reserved for patients who suffer from a chronic illness that: (1) is known to respond to antipsychotic drugs, and (2) for whom alternative, equally effective, but potentially less harmful treatments are not available or appropriate. In patients who do require chronic treatment, the smallest dose and the shortest duration of treatment producing a satisfactory clinical response should be sought. The need for continued treatment should be reassessed periodically.
If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient treated with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA, drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA despite the presence of the syndrome.
Risperdal Consta: Although the prevalence of the syndrome appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, it is impossible to rely upon prevalence estimates to predict, at the inception of antipsychotic treatment, which patients are likely to develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drug products differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown.
Metabolic Changes: Atypical antipsychotic drugs have been associated with metabolic changes that may increase cardiovascular/cerebrovascular risk. These metabolic changes include hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and body weight gain. While all of the drugs in the class have been shown to produce some metabolic changes, each drug has its own specific risk profile.
Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus: Hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, have been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics including RISPERDAL. Assessment of the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of an increased background risk of diabetes mellitus in patients with schizophrenia and the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus in the general population. Given these confounders, the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and hyperglycemia-related adverse events is not completely understood. However, epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of treatment-emergent hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with the atypical antipsychotics. Precise risk estimates for hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics are not available.
Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL, should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (e.g., obesity, family history of diabetes) who are starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL, should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient treated with atypical antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL, should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL, should undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when the atypical antipsychotic, including RISPERDAL, was discontinued; however, some patients required continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of RISPERDAL.
Pooled data from 3 double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in subjects with schizophrenia and 4 double-blind, placebo-controlled monotherapy studies in subjects with bipolar mania with oral risperidone are presented in Table 3. (See Table 3.)

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In longer-term, controlled and uncontrolled studies in adult subjects, RISPERDAL was associated with a mean change in glucose of +2.8 mg/dL at Week 24 (N=151) and +4.1 mg/dL at Week 48 (N=50).
Risperdal: Data from the placebo-controlled 3- to 6-week study in children and adolescents with schizophrenia (13-17 years of age), bipolar mania (10-17 years of age), or autistic disorder (5-17 years of age) are presented in Table 4. (See Table 4.)

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In longer-term, uncontrolled, open-label extension pediatric studies, RISPERDAL was associated with a mean change in fasting glucose of +5.2 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=119).
Dyslipidemia: Undesirable alterations in lipids have been observed in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics.
Pooled data from 7 placebo-controlled, 3- to 8-week, fixed- or flexible-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia or bipolar mania are presented in Table 5. (See Table 5.)

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In longer-term, controlled and uncontrolled studies, RISPERDAL was associated with a mean change in (a) non-fasting cholesterol of +4.4 mg/dL at Week 24 (N=231) and +5.5 mg/dL at Week 48 (N=86); and (b) non-fasting triglycerides of +19.9 mg/dL at Week 24 (N=52).
Risperdal: Pooled data from 3 placebo-controlled, 3- to 6-week, fixed-dose studies in children and adolescents with schizophrenia (13-17 years of age), bipolar mania (10-17 years of age), or autistic disorder (5-17 years of age) are presented in Table 6. (See Table 6.)

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In longer-term, uncontrolled, open-label extension pediatric studies, RISPERDAL was associated with a mean change in (a) fasting cholesterol of +2.1 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=114); (b) fasting LDL of -0.2 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=103); (c) fasting HDL of +0.4 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=103); and (d) fasting triglycerides of +6.8 mg/dL at Week 24 (n=120).
Weight Gain: Weight gain has been observed with atypical antipsychotic use. Clinical monitoring of weight is recommended.
Risperdal: Data on mean changes in body weight and the proportion of subjects meeting a weight gain criterion of 7% or greater of body weight from 7 placebo-controlled, 3- to 8-week, fixed- or flexible-dose studies in adult subjects with schizophrenia or bipolar mania are presented in Table 7. (See Table 7.)

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In longer-term, controlled and uncontrolled studies, RISPERDAL was associated with a mean change in weight of +4.3 kg at Week 24 (n=395) and +5.3 kg at Week 48 (n=203).
Data on mean changes in body weight and the proportion of subjects meeting the criterion of ≥7% gain in body weight from nine placebo-controlled, 3- to 8-week, fixed-dose studies in children and adolescents with schizophrenia (13-17 years of age), bipolar mania (10-17 years of age), autistic disorder (5-17 years of age), or other psychiatric disorders (5-17 years of age) are presented in Table 8. (See Table 8.)

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In longer-term, uncontrolled, open-label extension pediatric studies, RISPERDAL was associated with a mean change in weight of +5.5 kg at Week 24 (n=748) and +8.0 kg at Week 48 (n=242).
In a long-term, open-label extension study in adolescent patients with schizophrenia, weight increase was reported as a treatment-emergent adverse event in 14% of patients. In 103 adolescent patients with schizophrenia, a mean increase of 9.0 kg was observed after 8 months of RISPERDAL treatment. The majority of that increase was observed within the first 6 months. The average percentiles at baseline and 8 months, respectively, were 56 and 72 for weight, 55 and 58 for height, and 51 and 71 for body mass index.
In long-term, open-label trials (studies in patients with autistic disorder or other psychiatric disorders), a mean increase of 7.5 kg after 12 months of RISPERDAL treatment was observed, which was higher than the expected normal weight gain (approximately 3 to 3.5 kg per year adjusted for age, based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention normative data). The majority of that increase occurred within the first 6 months of exposure to RISPERDAL. The average percentiles at baseline and 12 months, respectively, were 49 and 60 for weight, 48 and 53 for height, and 50 and 62 for body mass index.
In one 3-week, placebo-controlled trial in children and adolescent patients with acute manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder, increases in body weight were higher in the RISPERDAL groups than the placebo group, but not dose related (1.90 kg in the RISPERDAL 0.5‑2.5 mg group, 1.44 kg in the RISPERDAL 3‑6 mg group, and 0.65 kg in the placebo group). A similar trend was observed in the mean change from baseline in body mass index.
When treating pediatric patients with RISPERDAL for any indication, weight gain should be assessed against that expected with normal growth.
Risperdal Consta: Data from a placebo-controlled, 12-week, fixed-dose study in adult subjects with schizophrenia are presented in Table 9. (See Table 9.)

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In an uncontrolled, longer-term, open-label study, RISPERDAL CONSTA was associated with a mean change in weight of +2.1 kg at Week 24 (N=268) and +2.8 kg at Week 50 (N=199).
Hyperprolactinemia: As with other drugs that antagonize dopamine D₂ receptors, risperidone elevates prolactin levels and the elevation persists during chronic administration. Risperidone is associated with higher levels of prolactin elevation than other antipsychotic agents.
Hyperprolactinemia may suppress hypothalamic GnRH, resulting in reduced pituitary gonadotropin secretion. This, in turn, may inhibit reproductive function by impairing gonadal steroidogenesis in both female and male patients. Galactorrhea, amenorrhea, gynecomastia, and impotence have been reported in patients receiving prolactin-elevating compounds. Long-standing hyperprolactinemia when associated with hypogonadism may lead to decreased bone density in both female and male subjects.
Tissue culture experiments indicate that approximately one-third of human breast cancers are prolactin dependent in vitro, a factor of potential importance if the prescription of these drugs is contemplated in a patient with previously detected breast cancer. An increase in pituitary gland, mammary gland, and pancreatic islet cell neoplasia (mammary adenocarcinomas, pituitary and pancreatic adenomas) was observed in the risperidone carcinogenicity studies conducted in mice and rats [see Pharmacology: Toxicology: Nonclinical Toxicology under Actions]. Neither clinical studies nor epidemiologic studies conducted to date have shown an association between chronic administration of this class of drugs and tumorigenesis in humans; the available evidence is considered too limited to be conclusive at this time.
Orthostatic Hypotension: RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA may induce orthostatic hypotension associated with dizziness, tachycardia, and in some patients, syncope, especially during the initial dose-titration period with oral risperidone, probably reflecting its alpha-adrenergic antagonistic properties.
Monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered in patients for whom this is of concern. A dose reduction should be considered if hypotension occurs.
Clinically significant hypotension has been observed with concomitant use of oral RISPERDAL and antihypertensive medication.
Risperdal: Syncope was reported in 0.2% (6/2607) of RISPERDAL-treated patients in Phase 2 and 3 studies in adults with schizophrenia. The risk of orthostatic hypotension and syncope may be minimized by limiting the initial dose to 2 mg total (either once daily or 1 mg twice daily) in normal adults and 0.5 mg twice daily in the elderly and patients with renal or hepatic impairment [see Dosage & Administration].
RISPERDAL should be used with particular caution in patients with known cardiovascular disease (history of myocardial infarction or ischemia, heart failure, or conduction abnormalities), cerebrovascular disease, and conditions which would predispose patients to hypotension, e.g., dehydration and hypovolemia.
Risperdal Consta: Syncope was reported in 0.8% (12/1499 patients) of patients treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA in multiple-dose studies. Patients should be instructed in nonpharmacologic interventions that help to reduce the occurrence of orthostatic hypotension (e.g., sitting on the edge of the bed for several minutes before attempting to stand in the morning and slowly rising from a seated position).
RISPERDAL CONSTA should be used with particular caution in (1) patients with known cardiovascular disease (history of myocardial infarction or ischemia, heart failure, or conduction abnormalities), cerebrovascular disease, and conditions which would predispose patients to hypotension, e.g., dehydration and hypovolemia, and (2) in the elderly and patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
Falls: Somnolence, postural hypotension, motor and sensory instability have been reported with the use of antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA, which may lead to falls and, consequently, fractures or other fall-related injuries. For patients, particularly the elderly, with diseases, conditions, or medications that could exacerbate these effects, assess the risk of falls when initiating antipsychotic treatment and recurrently for patients on long-term antipsychotic therapy.
Leukopenia, Neutropenia, and Agranulocytosis: Class Effect: In clinical trial and/or postmarketing experience, events of leukopenia/neutropenia have been reported temporally related to antipsychotic agents, including RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA. Agranulocytosis has also been reported.
Possible risk factors for leukopenia/neutropenia include pre-existing low white blood cell count (WBC) and history of drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia. Patients with a history of a clinically significant low WBC or a drug-induced leukopenia/neutropenia should have their complete blood count (CBC) monitored frequently during the first few months of therapy and discontinuation of RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA should be considered at the first sign of a clinically significant decline in WBC in the absence of other causative factors.
Patients with clinically significant neutropenia should be carefully monitored for fever or other symptoms or signs of infection and treated promptly if such symptoms or signs occur. Patients with severe neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count <1000/mm³) should discontinue RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA and have their WBC followed until recovery.
Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Since risperidone has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that treatment with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA does not affect them adversely.
Risperdal: Somnolence was a commonly reported adverse reaction associated with RISPERDAL treatment, especially when ascertained by direct questioning of patients. This adverse reaction is dose-related, and in a study utilizing a checklist to detect adverse events, 41% of the high-dose patients (RISPERDAL 16 mg/day) reported somnolence compared to 16% of placebo patients. Direct questioning is more sensitive for detecting adverse events than spontaneous reporting, by which 8% of RISPERDAL 16 mg/day patients and 1% of placebo patients reported somnolence as an adverse reaction.
Risperdal Consta: Somnolence was reported by 5% of patients treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA in multiple‑dose trials.
Seizures: RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA should be used cautiously in patients with a history of seizures.
Risperdal: During premarketing testing in adult patients with schizophrenia, seizures occurred in 0.3% (9/2607) of RISPERDAL‑treated patients, two in association with hyponatremia.
Risperdal Consta: During premarketing testing, seizures occurred in 0.3% (5/1499 patients) of patients treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA.
Dysphagia: Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use. Aspiration pneumonia is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with advanced Alzheimer's dementia. RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA and other antipsychotic drugs should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration pneumonia. [See Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis as previously mentioned and Warnings.]
Priapism: Priapism has been reported during postmarketing surveillance [see Adverse Reactions]. Severe priapism may require surgical intervention.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): Risperdal Consta: A single case of TTP was reported in a 28 year-old female patient receiving oral RISPERDAL in a large, open premarketing experience (approximately 1300 patients). She experienced jaundice, fever, and bruising, but eventually recovered after receiving plasmapheresis. The relationship to RISPERDAL therapy is unknown.
Body Temperature Regulation: Disruption of body temperature regulation has been attributed to antipsychotic agents. Both hyperthermia and hypothermia have been reported in association with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA use. Caution is advised when prescribing for patients who will be exposed to temperature extremes.
Administration: Risperdal Consta: RISPERDAL CONSTA should be injected into the deltoid or gluteal muscle, and care must be taken to avoid inadvertent injection into a blood vessel. [See Dosage & Administration and Adverse Reactions.]
Antiemetic Effect: Risperdal Consta: Risperidone has an antiemetic effect in animals; this effect may also occur in humans, and may mask signs and symptoms of overdosage with certain drugs or of conditions such as intestinal obstruction, Reye's syndrome, and brain tumor.
Use in Patients with Concomitant Illness: Risperdal Consta: Clinical experience with RISPERDAL CONSTA in patients with certain concomitant systemic illnesses is limited. Patients with Parkinson's Disease or Dementia with Lewy Bodies who receive antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL CONSTA, are reported to have an increased sensitivity to antipsychotic medications. Manifestations of this increased sensitivity have been reported to include confusion, obtundation, postural instability with frequent falls, extrapyramidal symptoms, and clinical features consistent with the neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Caution is advisable when using RISPERDAL CONSTA in patients with diseases or conditions that could affect metabolism or hemodynamic responses. RISPERDAL CONSTA has not been evaluated or used to any appreciable extent in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable heart disease. Patients with these diagnoses were excluded from clinical studies during the product's premarket testing.
Increased plasma concentrations of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone occur in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min/1.73 m²) treated with oral RISPERDAL; an increase in the free fraction of risperidone is also seen in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should be carefully titrated on oral RISPERDAL before treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA is initiated at a dose of 25 mg. A lower initial dose of 12.5 mg may be appropriate when clinical factors warrant dose adjustment, such as in patients with renal or hepatic impairment [see Dosage & Administration].
Osteodystrophy and Tumors in Animals: Risperdal Consta: RISPERDAL CONSTA produced osteodystrophy in male and female rats in a 1-year toxicity study and a 2-year carcinogenicity study at a dose of 40 mg/kg administered IM every 2 weeks.
RISPERDAL CONSTA produced renal tubular tumors (adenoma, adenocarcinoma) and adrenomedullary pheochromocytomas in male rats in the 2-year carcinogenicity study at 40 mg/kg administered IM every 2 weeks. In addition, RISPERDAL CONSTA produced an increase in a marker of cellular proliferation in renal tissue in males in the 1-year toxicity study and in renal tumor-bearing males in the 2-year carcinogenicity study at 40 mg/kg administered IM every 2 weeks. (Cellular proliferation was not measured at the low dose or in females in either study.)
The effect dose for osteodystrophy and the tumor findings is 8 times the IM maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) (50 mg) on a mg/m² basis and is associated with a plasma exposure (AUC) 2 times the expected plasma exposure (AUC) at the IM MRHD. The no-effect dose for these findings was 5 mg/kg (equal to the IM MRHD on a mg/m² basis). Plasma exposure (AUC) at the no-effect dose was one third the expected plasma exposure (AUC) at the IM MRHD.
Neither the renal or adrenal tumors, nor osteodystrophy, were seen in studies of orally administered risperidone. Osteodystrophy was not observed in dogs at doses up to 14 times (based on AUC) the IM MRHD in a 1-year toxicity study.
The renal tubular and adrenomedullary tumors in male rats and other tumor findings are described in more detail in Pharmacology: Toxicology: Nonclinical Toxicology: Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility under Actions.
The relevance of these findings to human risk is unknown.
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome: Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) has been observed during cataract surgery in patients treated with medicines with alpha1a-adrenergic antagonist effect, including RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA [see Adverse Reactions].
IFIS may increase the risk of eye complications during and after the operation. Current or past use of medicines with alpha1a-adrenergic antagonist effect should be made known to the ophthalmic surgeon in advance of surgery. The potential benefit of stopping alpha1 blocking therapy prior to cataract surgery has not been established and must be weighed against the risk of stopping the antipsychotic therapy.
Drug Abuse and Dependence: Controlled Substance: RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA (risperidone) is not a controlled substance.
Abuse: RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA has not been systematically studied in animals or humans for its potential for abuse.
Risperdal: While the clinical trials did not reveal any tendency for any drug-seeking behavior, these observations were not systematic and it is not possible to predict on the basis of this limited experience the extent to which a CNS-active drug will be misused, diverted, and/or abused once marketed. Consequently, patients should be evaluated carefully for a history of drug abuse, and such patients should be observed closely for signs of RISPERDAL misuse or abuse (e.g., development of tolerance, increases in dose, drug-seeking behavior).
Risperdal Consta: Because RISPERDAL CONSTA is to be administered by health care professionals, the potential for misuse or abuse by patients is low.
Dependence: RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA has not been systematically studied in animals or humans for its potential for tolerance or physical dependence.
Renal Impairment: Risperdal: In patients with moderate to severe (Clcr 59 to 15 mL/min) renal disease, clearance of the sum of risperidone and its active metabolite decreased by 60%, compared to young healthy subjects. RISPERDAL doses should be reduced in patients with renal disease [see Dosage & Administration].
Hepatic Impairment: Risperdal: While the pharmacokinetics of risperidone in subjects with liver disease were comparable to those in young healthy subjects, the mean free fraction of risperidone in plasma was increased by about 35% because of the diminished concentration of both albumin and α₁-acid glycoprotein. RISPERDAL doses should be reduced in patients with liver disease [see Dosage & Administration].
Patients with Parkinson's Disease or Lewy Body Dementia: Risperdal: Patients with Parkinson's Disease or Dementia with Lewy Bodies can experience increased sensitivity to RISPERDAL. Manifestations can include confusion, obtundation, postural instability with frequent falls, extrapyramidal symptoms, and clinical features consistent with neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Use in Children: Juvenile Animal Studies: Juvenile dogs were treated with oral risperidone from weeks 10 to 50 of age (equivalent to the period of childhood through adolescence in humans), at doses of 0.31, 1.25, or 5 mg/kg/day, which are 1.2, 3.4, and 13.5 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day for children, based on mg/m² body surface area. Bone length and density were decreased with a no-effect dose of 0.31 mg/kg/day; this dose produced plasma AUC of risperidone plus its active metabolite paliperidone (9-hydroxy-risperidone) that were similar to those in children and adolescents receiving the MRHD of 6 mg/day. In addition, sexual maturation was delayed at all doses in both males and females. The previously mentioned effects showed little or no reversibility in females after a 12 week drug-free recovery period.
Juvenile rats, treated with oral risperidone from days 12 to 50 of age (equivalent to the period of infancy through adolescence in humans) showed impaired learning and memory performance (reversible only in females), with a no-effect dose of 0.63 mg/kg/day which is 0.5 times the MRHD of 6 mg/day for children, based on mg/m² body surface area. This dose produced plasma AUC of risperidone plus paliperidone about half the exposure observed in humans at the MRHD. No other consistent effects on neurobehavioral or reproductive development were seen up to the highest tested dose of 1.25 mg/kg/day which is 1 time the MRHD and produced plasma AUC of risperidone plus paliperidone that were about two thirds of those observed in humans at the MRHD of 6 mg/day for children.
Risperdal: Approved Pediatric Indications: Schizophrenia: The efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL in the treatment of schizophrenia were demonstrated in 417 adolescents, aged 13 - 17 years, in two short-term (6 and 8 weeks, respectively) double-blind controlled trials [see Indications/Uses, Adverse Reactions, and Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions]. Additional safety and efficacy information was also assessed in one long-term (6-month) open-label extension study in 284 of these adolescent patients with schizophrenia.
Safety and effectiveness of RISPERDAL in children less than 13 years of age with schizophrenia have not been established.
Bipolar I Disorder: The efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL in the short-term treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder in 169 children and adolescent patients, aged 10 - 17 years, were demonstrated in one double-blind, placebo-controlled, 3-week trial [see Indications/Uses, Adverse Reactions, and Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions].
Safety and effectiveness of RISPERDAL in children less than 10 years of age with bipolar disorder have not been established.
Autistic Disorder: The efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL in the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder were established in two 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in 156 children and adolescent patients, aged 5 to 16 years [see Indications/Uses, Adverse Reactions, and Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics: Clinical Studies under Actions]. Additional safety information was also assessed in a long-term study in patients with autistic disorder, or in short- and long-term studies in more than 1200 pediatric patients with psychiatric disorders other than autistic disorder, schizophrenia, or bipolar mania who were of similar age and weight, and who received similar dosages of RISPERDAL as patients treated for irritability associated with autistic disorder.
A third study was a 6-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a lower than recommended dose of risperidone in subjects 5 to 17 years of age with autistic disorder and associated irritability, and related behavioral symptoms. There were two weight-based, fixed doses of risperidone (high-dose and low-dose). The high dose was 1.25 mg per day for patients weighing 20 to < 45 kg, and it was 1.75 mg per day for patients weighing > 45 kg. The low dose was 0.125 mg per day for patients for patients weighing 20 to < 45 kg, and it was 0.175 mg per day for patients weighing > 45 kg. The study demonstrated the efficacy of high-dose risperidone, but it did not demonstrate efficacy for low-dose risperidone.
Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients: Tardive Dyskinesia: In clinical trials in 1885 children and adolescents treated with RISPERDAL, 2 (0.1%) patients were reported to have tardive dyskinesia, which resolved on discontinuation of RISPERDAL treatment [see also Tardive Dyskinesia as previously mentioned].
Weight Gain: Weight gain has been observed in children and adolescents during treatment with RISPERDAL. Clinical monitoring of weight is recommended during treatment.
Data derive from short-term placebo-controlled trials and longer-term uncontrolled studies in pediatric patients (ages 5 to 17 years) with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autistic disorder, or other psychiatric disorders. In the short-term trials (3 to 8 weeks), the mean weight gain for RISPERDAL-treated patients was 2 kg, compared to 0.6 kg for placebo-treated patients. In these trials, approximately 33% of the RISPERDAL group had weight gain >7%, compared to 7% in the placebo group. In longer-term, uncontrolled, open-label pediatric studies, the mean weight gain was 5.5 kg at Week 24 and 8 kg at Week 48 [see Metabolic Changes as previously mentioned and Adverse Reactions].
Somnolence: Somnolence was frequently observed in placebo-controlled clinical trials of pediatric patients with autistic disorder. Most cases were mild or moderate in severity. These events were most often of early onset with peak incidence occurring during the first two weeks of treatment, and transient with a median duration of 16 days. Somnolence was the most commonly observed adverse reaction in the clinical trial of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents, as well as in the schizophrenia trials in adolescents. As was seen in the autistic disorder trials, these adverse reactions were most often of early onset and transient in duration [see Adverse Reactions]. Patients experiencing persistent somnolence may benefit from a change in dosing regimen [see Dosage & Administration].
Hyperprolactinemia: RISPERDAL has been shown to elevate prolactin levels in children and adolescents as well as in adults [see Hyperprolactinemia as previously mentioned]. In double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of up to 8 weeks duration in children and adolescents (aged 5 to 17 years) with autistic disorder or psychiatric disorders other than autistic disorder, schizophrenia, or bipolar mania, 49% of patients who received RISPERDAL had elevated prolactin levels compared to 2% of patients who received placebo. Similarly, in placebo-controlled trials in children and adolescents (aged 10 to 17 years) with bipolar disorder, or adolescents (aged 13 to 17 years) with schizophrenia, 82-87% of patients who received RISPERDAL had elevated levels of prolactin compared to 3‑7% of patients on placebo. Increases were dose-dependent and generally greater in females than in males across indications.
In clinical trials in 1885 children and adolescents, galactorrhea was reported in 0.8% of RISPERDAL-treated patients and gynecomastia was reported in 2.3% of RISPERDAL-treated patients.
Growth and Sexual Maturation: The long-term effects of RISPERDAL on growth and sexual maturation have not been fully evaluated in children and adolescents.
Risperdal Consta: Safety and effectiveness of RISPERDAL CONSTA in pediatric patients have not been established. However, juvenile animal toxicology studies have been conducted with oral risperidone.
Use in the Elderly: Risperdal: Clinical studies of RISPERDAL in the treatment of schizophrenia did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether or not they respond differently than younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between elderly and younger patients. In general, a lower starting dose is recommended for an elderly patient, reflecting a decreased pharmacokinetic clearance in the elderly, as well as a greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions and Dosage & Administration]. While elderly patients exhibit a greater tendency to orthostatic hypotension, its risk in the elderly may be minimized by limiting the initial dose to 0.5 mg twice daily followed by careful titration [see Orthostatic Hypotension as previously mentioned]. Monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered in patients for whom this is of concern.
This drug is substantially excreted by the kidneys, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function [see Dosage & Administration].
Risperdal Consta: In an open-label study, 57 clinically stable, elderly patients (≥ 65 years old) with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder received RISPERDAL CONSTA every 2 weeks for up to 12 months. In general, no differences in the tolerability of RISPERDAL CONSTA were observed between otherwise healthy elderly and nonelderly patients. Therefore, dosing recommendations for otherwise healthy elderly patients are the same as for nonelderly patients. Because elderly patients exhibit a greater tendency to orthostatic hypotension than nonelderly patients, elderly patients should be instructed in nonpharmacologic interventions that help to reduce the occurrence of orthostatic hypotension (e.g., sitting on the edge of the bed for several minutes before attempting to stand in the morning and slowly rising from a seated position). In addition, monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered in elderly patients for whom orthostatic hypotension is of concern [see Orthostatic Hypotension as previously mentioned].
Concomitant use with Furosemide in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: In two of four placebo-controlled trials in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, a higher incidence of mortality was observed in patients treated with furosemide plus oral risperidone when compared to patients treated with oral risperidone alone or with oral placebo plus furosemide. No pathological mechanism has been identified to explain this finding, and no consistent pattern for cause of death was observed. An increase of mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis was seen with the use of oral risperidone regardless of concomitant use with furosemide. RISPERDAL CONSTA is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis. [See Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis as previously mentioned and Warnings.]

Pregnancy: Risk Summary: Neonates exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery (see Clinical Considerations as follows). Overall, available data from published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to risperidone have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data as follows). There are risks to the mother associated with untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder and with exposure to antipsychotics, including RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations as follows).
Oral administration of risperidone to pregnant mice caused cleft palate at doses 3 to 4 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) with maternal toxicity observed at 4-times MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area. Risperidone was not teratogenic in rats or rabbits at doses up to 6-times the MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area. Increased stillbirths and decreased birth weight occurred after oral risperidone administration to pregnant rats at 1.5-times the MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area. Learning was impaired in offspring of rats when the dams were dosed at 0.6-times the MRHD and offspring mortality increased at doses 0.1 to 3 times the MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Risperdal Consta: Risperidone has been detected in plasma in adult subjects up to 8 weeks after a single-dose administration of RISPERDAL CONSTA [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions]. The clinical significance of RISPERDAL CONSTA administered before pregnancy or anytime during pregnancy is not known.
Clinical Considerations: Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk: There is a risk to the mother from untreated schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder, including increased risk of relapse, hospitalization, and suicide. Schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth. It is not known if this is a direct result of the illness or other comorbid factors.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions: Extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms, including agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder have been reported in neonates who were exposed to antipsychotic drugs, including RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA, during the third trimester of pregnancy. These symptoms have varied in severity. Monitor neonates for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms and manage symptoms appropriately. Some neonates recovered within hours or days without specific treatment; others required prolonged hospitalization.
Risperdal Consta: RISPERDAL CONSTA should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Data: Human Data: Published data from observational studies, birth registries, and case reports on the use of atypical antipsychotics during pregnancy do not report a clear association with antipsychotics and major birth defects. A prospective observational study including 6 women treated with risperidone demonstrated placental passage of risperidone. A retrospective cohort study from a Medicaid database of 9258 women exposed to antipsychotics during pregnancy did not indicate an overall increased risk for major birth defects. There was a small increase in the risk of major birth defects (RR=1.26, 95% CI 1.02-1.56) and of cardiac malformations (RR=1.26, 95% CI 0.88-1.81) in a subgroup of 1566 women exposed to risperidone during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, there is no mechanism of action to explain the difference in malformation rates.
Animal Data: Oral administration of risperidone to pregnant mice during organogenesis caused cleft palate at 10 mg/kg/day which is 3 times the MRHD of 16 mg/day based on mg/m² body surface area; maternal toxicity occurred at 4 times the MRHD. Risperidone was not teratogenic when administered orally to rats at 0.6 to 10 mg/kg/day and rabbits at 0.3 to 5 mg/kg/day, which are up to 6 times the MRHD of 16 mg/day risperidone based on mg/m² body surface area. Learning was impaired in offspring of rats dosed orally throughout pregnancy at 1 mg/kg/day which is 0.6 times the MRHD and neuronal cell death increased in fetal brains of offspring of rats dosed during pregnancy at 1 and 2 mg/kg/day which are 0.6 and 1.2 times the MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area; postnatal development and growth of the offspring were also delayed.
Rat offspring mortality increased during the first 4 days of lactation when pregnant rats were dosed throughout gestation at 0.16 to 5 mg/kg/day which are 0.1 to 3 times the MRHD of 16 mg/day based on mg/m² body surface area. It is not known whether these deaths were due to a direct effect on the fetuses or pups or to effects on the dams; a no-effect dose could not be determined. The rate of stillbirths was increased at 2.5 mg/kg or 1.5 times the MRHD based on mg/m² body surface area.
In a rat cross-fostering study the number of live offspring was decreased, the number of stillbirths increased, and the birth weight was decreased in offspring of drug-treated pregnant rats. In addition, the number of deaths increased by Day 1 among offspring of drug-treated pregnant rats, regardless of whether or not the offspring were cross‑fostered. Risperidone also appeared to impair maternal behavior in that offspring body weight gain and survival (from Day 1 to 4 of lactation) were reduced in offspring born to control but reared by drug-treated dams. All of these effects occurred at 5 mg/kg which is 3 times the MRHD based on mg/m² and the only dose tested in the study.
Lactation: Risk Summary: Limited data from published literature reports the presence of risperidone and its metabolite, 9‑hydroxyrisperidone, in human breast milk at relative infant dose ranging between 2.3% and 4.7% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage. There are reports of sedation, failure to thrive, jitteriness, and extrapyramidal symptoms (tremors and abnormal muscle movements) in breastfed infants exposed to risperidone (see Clinical Considerations as follows).
There is no information on the effects of risperidone on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA or from the mother's underlying condition.
Risperdal Consta: Risperidone has been detected in plasma in adult subjects up to 8 weeks after a single-dose administration of RISPERDAL CONSTA [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions], and the clinical significance on the breastfed infant is not known.
Clinical Considerations: Infants exposed to RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA through breastmilk should be monitored for excess sedation, failure to thrive, jitteriness, and extrapyramidal symptoms (tremors and abnormal muscle movements).
Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Infertility: Females: Based on the pharmacologic action of risperidone (D₂ receptor antagonism), treatment with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA may result in an increase in serum prolactin levels, which may lead to a reversible reduction in fertility in females of reproductive potential [see Precautions].

Risperdal: The following are discussed in more detail in Precautions: Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see also Warnings]; Cerebrovascular adverse events, including stroke, in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis; Neuroleptic malignant syndrome; Tardive dyskinesia; Metabolic Changes (Hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, Dyslipidemia, and Weight Gain); Hyperprolactinemia; Orthostatic hypotension; Falls; Leukopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis; Potential for cognitive and motor impairment; Seizures; Dysphagia; Priapism; Disruption of body temperature regulation; Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS).
The most common adverse reactions in clinical trials (>5% and twice placebo) were parkinsonism, akathisia, dystonia, tremor, sedation, dizziness, anxiety, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, stomach discomfort, dyspepsia, diarrhea, salivary hypersecretion, constipation, dry mouth, increased appetite, increased weight, fatigue, rash, nasal congestion, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, and pharyngolaryngeal pain.
The most common adverse reactions that were associated with discontinuation from clinical trials (causing discontinuation in >1% of adults and/or >2% of pediatrics) were nausea, somnolence, sedation, vomiting, dizziness, and akathisia [see Clinical Trials Experience: Discontinuations Due to Adverse Reactions as follows].
The data described in this section are derived from a clinical trial database consisting of 9803 adult and pediatric patients exposed to one or more doses of RISPERDAL for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar mania, autistic disorder, and other psychiatric disorders in pediatrics and elderly patients with dementia. Of these 9803 patients, 2687 were patients who received RISPERDAL while participating in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. The conditions and duration of treatment with RISPERDAL varied greatly and included (in overlapping categories) double-blind, fixed- and flexible-dose, placebo- or active-controlled studies and open-label phases of studies, inpatients and outpatients, and short-term (up to 12 weeks) and longer-term (up to 3 years) exposures. Safety was assessed by collecting adverse events and performing physical examinations, vital signs, body weights, laboratory analyses, and ECGs.
Clinical Trials Experience: Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
Commonly-Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials - Schizophrenia: Adult Patients with Schizophrenia: Table 10 lists the adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of RISPERDAL-treated adult patients with schizophrenia in three 4- to 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. (See Table 10.)

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Pediatric Patients with Schizophrenia: Table 11 lists the adverse reactions reported in 5% or more of RISPERDAL-treated pediatric patients with schizophrenia in a 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. (See Table 11.)

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Commonly-Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials - Bipolar Mania: Adult Patients with Bipolar Mania: Table 12 lists the adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of RISPERDAL-treated adult patients with bipolar mania in four 3-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled monotherapy trials. (See Table 12.)

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Table 13 lists the adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of RISPERDAL-treated adult patients with bipolar mania in two 3-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled adjuvant therapy trials. (See Table 13.)

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Pediatric Patients with Bipolar Mania: Table 14 lists the adverse reactions reported in 5% or more of RISPERDAL-treated pediatric patients with bipolar mania in a 3-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. (See Table 14.)

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Commonly-Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials - Autistic Disorder: Table 15 lists the adverse reactions reported in 5% or more of RISPERDAL-treated pediatric patients treated for irritability associated with autistic disorder in two 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials and one 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled study. (See Table 15.)

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Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of Risperidone: The following additional adverse reactions occurred across all placebo-controlled, active-controlled, and open-label studies of RISPERDAL in adults and pediatric patients.
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: anemia, granulocytopenia, neutropenia.
Cardiac Disorders: sinus bradycardia, sinus tachycardia, atrioventricular block first degree, bundle branch block left, bundle branch block right, atrioventricular block.
Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: ear pain, tinnitus.
Endocrine Disorders: hyperprolactinemia.
Eye Disorders: ocular hyperemia, eye discharge, conjunctivitis, eye rolling, eyelid edema, eye swelling, eyelid margin crusting, dry eye, lacrimation increased, photophobia, glaucoma, visual acuity reduced.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: dysphagia, fecaloma, fecal incontinence, gastritis, lip swelling, cheilitis, aptyalism.
General Disorders: edema peripheral, thirst, gait disturbance, influenza-like illness, pitting edema, edema, chills, sluggishness, malaise, chest discomfort, face edema, discomfort, generalized edema, drug withdrawal syndrome, peripheral coldness, feeling abnormal.
Immune System Disorders: drug hypersensitivity.
Infections and Infestations: pneumonia, influenza, ear infection, viral infection, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis, eye infection, localized infection, cystitis, cellulitis, otitis media, onychomycosis, acarodermatitis, bronchopneumonia, respiratory tract infection, tracheobronchitis, otitis media chronic.
Investigations: body temperature increased, blood prolactin increased, alanine aminotransferase increased, electrocardiogram abnormal, eosinophil count increased, white blood cell count decreased, blood glucose increased, hemoglobin decreased, hematocrit decreased, body temperature decreased, blood pressure decreased, transaminases increased.
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: decreased appetite, polydipsia, anorexia.
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: joint stiffness, joint swelling, musculoskeletal chest pain, posture abnormal, myalgia, neck pain, muscular weakness, rhabdomyolysis.
Nervous System Disorders: balance disorder, disturbance in attention, dysarthria, unresponsive to stimuli, depressed level of consciousness, movement disorder, transient ischemic attack, coordination abnormal, cerebrovascular accident, speech disorder, syncope, loss of consciousness, hypoesthesia, tardive dyskinesia, dyskinesia, cerebral ischemia, cerebrovascular disorder, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, diabetic coma, head titubation.
Psychiatric Disorders: agitation, blunted affect, confusional state, middle insomnia, nervousness, sleep disorder, listlessness, libido decreased, and anorgasmia.
Renal and Urinary Disorders: enuresis, dysuria, pollakiuria, urinary incontinence.
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: menstruation irregular, amenorrhea, gynecomastia, galactorrhea, vaginal discharge, menstrual disorder, erectile dysfunction, retrograde ejaculation, ejaculation disorder, sexual dysfunction, breast enlargement.
Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: wheezing, pneumonia aspiration, sinus congestion, dysphonia, productive cough, pulmonary congestion, respiratory tract congestion, rales, respiratory disorder, hyperventilation, nasal edema.
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: erythema, skin discoloration, skin lesion, pruritus, skin disorder, rash erythematous, rash papular, rash generalized, rash maculopapular, acne, hyperkeratosis, seborrheic dermatitis.
Vascular Disorders: hypotension, flushing.
Additional Adverse Reactions Reported with RISPERDAL CONSTA: The following is a list of additional adverse reactions that have been reported during the premarketing evaluation of RISPERDAL CONSTA, regardless of frequency of occurrence: Cardiac Disorders: bradycardia.
Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: vertigo.
Eye Disorders: blepharospasm.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: toothache, tongue spasm.
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: pain.
Infections and Infestations: lower respiratory tract infection, infection, gastroenteritis, subcutaneous abscess.
Injury and Poisoning: fall.
Investigations: weight decreased, gamma-glutamyltransferase increased, hepatic enzyme increased.
Musculoskeletal, Connective Tissue, and Bone Disorders: buttock pain.
Nervous System Disorders: convulsion, paresthesia.
Psychiatric Disorders: depression.
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: eczema.
Vascular Disorders: hypertension.
Discontinuations Due to Adverse Reactions: Schizophrenia - Adults: Approximately 7% (39/564) of RISPERDAL-treated patients in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 4% (10/225) who were receiving placebo. The adverse reactions associated with discontinuation in 2 or more RISPERDAL-treated patients were: See Table 16.

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Discontinuation for extrapyramidal symptoms (including Parkinsonism, akathisia, dystonia, and tardive dyskinesia) was 1% in placebo-treated patients, and 3.4% in active control-treated patients in a double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled trial.
Schizophrenia - Pediatrics: Approximately 7% (7/106), of RISPERDAL-treated patients discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, compared with 4% (2/54) placebo‑treated patients. The adverse reactions associated with discontinuation for at least one RISPERDAL-treated patient were dizziness (2%), somnolence (1%), sedation (1%), lethargy (1%), anxiety (1%), balance disorder (1%), hypotension (1%), and palpitation (1%).
Bipolar Mania - Adults: In double-blind, placebo-controlled trials with RISPERDAL as monotherapy, approximately 6% (25/448) of RISPERDAL-treated patients discontinued treatment due to an adverse event, compared with approximately 5% (19/424) of placebo-treated patients. The adverse reactions associated with discontinuation in RISPERDAL-treated patients were: See Table 17.

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Bipolar Mania - Pediatrics: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial 12% (13/111) of RISPERDAL-treated patients discontinued due to an adverse reaction, compared with 7% (4/58) of placebo-treated patients. The adverse reactions associated with discontinuation in more than one RISPERDAL-treated pediatric patient were nausea (3%), somnolence (2%), sedation (2%), and vomiting (2%).
Autistic Disorder - Pediatrics: In the two 8-week, placebo-controlled trials in pediatric patients treated for irritability associated with autistic disorder (n = 156), one RISPERDAL-treated patient discontinued due to an adverse reaction (Parkinsonism), and one placebo-treated patient discontinued due to an adverse event.
Dose Dependency of Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials: Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Data from two fixed-dose trials in adults with schizophrenia provided evidence of dose-relatedness for extrapyramidal symptoms associated with RISPERDAL treatment.
Two methods were used to measure extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) in an 8-week trial comparing 4 fixed doses of RISPERDAL (2, 6, 10, and 16 mg/day), including (1) a Parkinsonism score (mean change from baseline) from the Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale, and (2) incidence of spontaneous complaints of EPS: See Table 18.

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Similar methods were used to measure extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) in an 8-week trial comparing 5 fixed doses of RISPERDAL (1, 4, 8, 12, and 16 mg/day): See Table 19.

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Dystonia: Class Effect: Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and at higher doses of first generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups.
Other Adverse Reactions: Adverse event data elicited by a checklist for side effects from a large study comparing 5 fixed doses of RISPERDAL (1, 4, 8, 12, and 16 mg/day) were explored for dose-relatedness of adverse events. A Cochran-Armitage Test for trend in these data revealed a positive trend (p<0.05) for the following adverse reactions: somnolence, vision abnormal, dizziness, palpitations, weight increase, erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorder, sexual function abnormal, fatigue, and skin discoloration.
Changes in Body Weight: Weight gain was observed in short-term, controlled trials and longer-term uncontrolled studies in adult and pediatric patients [see Precautions].
Changes in ECG Parameters: Between-group comparisons for pooled placebo-controlled trials in adults revealed no statistically significant differences between risperidone and placebo in mean changes from baseline in ECG parameters, including QT, QTc, and PR intervals, and heart rate. When all RISPERDAL doses were pooled from randomized controlled trials in several indications, there was a mean increase in heart rate of 1 beat per minute compared to no change for placebo patients. In short-term schizophrenia trials, higher doses of risperidone (8-16 mg/day) were associated with a higher mean increase in heart rate compared to placebo (4-6 beats per minute). In pooled placebo-controlled acute mania trials in adults, there were small decreases in mean heart rate, similar among all treatment groups.
In the two placebo-controlled trials in children and adolescents with autistic disorder (aged 5 ‑ 16 years) mean changes in heart rate were an increase of 8.4 beats per minute in the RISPERDAL groups and 6.5 beats per minute in the placebo group. There were no other notable ECG changes.
In a placebo-controlled acute mania trial in children and adolescents (aged 10 - 17 years), there were no significant changes in ECG parameters, other than the effect of RISPERDAL to transiently increase pulse rate (< 6 beats per minute). In two controlled schizophrenia trials in adolescents (aged 13 - 17 years), there were no clinically meaningful changes in ECG parameters including corrected QT intervals between treatment groups or within treatment groups over time.
Postmarketing Experience: The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of risperidone. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. These adverse reactions include: alopecia, anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, atrial fibrillation, cardiopulmonary arrest, diabetic ketoacidosis in patients with impaired glucose metabolism, dysgeusia, floppy iris syndrome (intraoperative), hypoglycemia, hypothermia, ileus, inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, intestinal obstruction, jaundice, mania, pancreatitis, pituitary adenoma, precocious puberty, pulmonary embolism, QT prolongation, sleep apnea syndrome, somnambulism, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), sudden death, thrombocytopenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, urinary retention, and water intoxication.
Risperdal Consta: The following are discussed in more detail in Precautions: Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis [see also Warnings]; Cerebrovascular adverse events, including stroke, in elderly patients with dementia‑related psychosis; Neuroleptic malignant syndrome; Tardive dyskinesia; Metabolic changes; Hyperprolactinemia; Orthostatic hypotension; Falls; Leukopenia/Neutropenia and Agranulocytosis; Potential for cognitive and motor impairment; Seizures; Dysphagia; Priapism; Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP); Disruption of body temperature regulation; Avoidance of inadvertent injection into a blood vessel; Antiemetic effect; Increased sensitivity in patients with Parkinson's disease or those with dementia with Lewy bodies; Diseases or conditions that could affect metabolism or hemodynamic responses; Osteodystrophy and tumors in animals; Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS).
The most common adverse reactions in clinical trials in patients with schizophrenia (≥ 5%) were: headache, parkinsonism, dizziness, akathisia, fatigue, constipation, dyspepsia, sedation, weight increased, pain in extremity, and dry mouth. The most common adverse reactions in the double-blind, placebo-controlled periods of the bipolar disorder trials were weight increased (5% in the monotherapy trial) and tremor and parkinsonism (≥ 10% in the adjunctive treatment trial).
The most common adverse reactions that were associated with discontinuation from the 12‑week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in patients with schizophrenia (causing discontinuation in ≥1% of patients) were agitation, depression, anxiety, and akathisia. Adverse reactions that were associated with discontinuation from the double-blind, placebo-controlled periods of the bipolar disorder trials were hyperglycemia (one patient in the monotherapy trial) and hypokinesia and tardive dyskinesia (one patient each in the adjunctive treatment trial).
The data described in this section are derived from a clinical trial database consisting of 2392 patients exposed to one or more doses of RISPERDAL CONSTA for the treatment of schizophrenia. Of these 2392 patients, 332 were patients who received RISPERDAL CONSTA while participating in a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Two hundred two (202) of the 332 were schizophrenia patients who received 25 mg or 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA. The conditions and duration of treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA in the other clinical trials varied greatly and included (in overlapping categories) double-blind, fixed- and flexible-dose, placebo- or active-controlled studies and open-label phases of studies, inpatients and outpatients, and short-term (up to 12 weeks) and longer-term (up to 4 years) exposures. Safety was assessed by collecting adverse events and performing physical examinations, vital signs, body weights, laboratory analyses, and ECGs.
In addition to the studies in patients with schizophrenia, safety data are presented from a trial assessing the efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL CONSTA when administered as monotherapy for maintenance treatment in patients with bipolar I disorder. The subjects in this multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled study were adult patients who met DSM-IV criteria for Bipolar Disorder Type I and who were stable on risperidone (oral or long-acting injection), were stable on other antipsychotics or mood stabilizers, or were experiencing an acute episode. After a 3-week period of treatment with open-label oral risperidone (N=440), subjects who demonstrated an initial response to oral risperidone in this period and those who were stable on risperidone (oral or long-acting injection) at study entry entered into a 26-week stabilization period of open-label RISPERDAL CONSTA (N=501). Subjects who demonstrated a maintained response during this period were then randomized into a 24-month double-blind, placebo-controlled period in which they received RISPERDAL CONSTA (N=154) or placebo (N=149) as monotherapy. Subjects who relapsed or who completed the double-blind period could choose to enter an 8-week open-label RISPERDAL CONSTA extension period (N=160).
Safety data are also presented from a trial assessing the efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL CONSTA when administered as adjunctive maintenance treatment in patients with bipolar disorder. The subjects in this multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled study were adult patients who met DSM-IV criteria for Bipolar Disorder Type I or Type II and who experienced at least 4 episodes of mood disorder requiring psychiatric/clinical intervention in the previous 12 months, including at least 2 episodes in the 6 months prior to the start of the study. At the start of this study, all patients (N=275) entered into a 16-week open-label treatment phase in which they received RISPERDAL CONSTA in addition to continuing their treatment as usual, which consisted of various mood stabilizers (primarily lithium and valproate), antidepressants, and/or anxiolytics. Patients who reached remission at the end of this 16-week open-label treatment phase (N=139) were then randomized into a 52-week double-blind, placebo-controlled phase in which they received RISPERDAL CONSTA (N=72) or placebo (n=67) as adjunctive treatment in addition to continuing their treatment as usual. Patients who did not reach remission at the end of the 16-week open-label treatment phase could choose to continue to receive RISPERDAL CONSTA as adjunctive therapy in an open-label manner, in addition to continuing their treatment as usual, for up to an additional 36 weeks as clinically indicated for a total period of up to 52 weeks; these patients (N=70) were also included in the evaluation of safety.
Adverse events during exposure to study treatment were obtained by general inquiry and recorded by clinical investigators using their own terminology. Consequently, to provide a meaningful estimate of the proportion of individuals experiencing adverse events, events were grouped in standardized categories using MedDRA terminology.
Throughout this section, adverse reactions are reported. Adverse reactions are adverse events that were considered to be reasonably associated with the use of RISPERDAL CONSTA (adverse drug reactions) based on the comprehensive assessment of the available adverse event information. A causal association for RISPERDAL CONSTA often cannot be reliably established in individual cases. Further, because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
The majority of all adverse reactions were mild to moderate in severity.
Commonly-Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials - Schizophrenia: Table 20 lists the adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients with schizophrenia in one 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. (See Table 20.)

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Commonly-Observed Adverse Reactions in Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials - Bipolar Disorder: Table 21 lists the treatment-emergent adverse reactions reported in 2% or more of RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients in the 24-month double-blind, placebo-controlled treatment period of the trial assessing the efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL CONSTA when administered as monotherapy for maintenance treatment in patients with Bipolar I Disorder. (See Table 21.)

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Table 22 lists the treatment-emergent adverse reactions reported in 4% or more of patients in the 52-week double-blind, placebo-controlled treatment phase of a trial assessing the efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL CONSTA when administered as adjunctive maintenance treatment in patients with bipolar disorder. (See Table 22.)

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Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of Risperidone: The following additional adverse reactions occurred in < 2% of the RISPERDAL CONSTA‑treated patients in the previously mentioned schizophrenia double-blind, placebo-controlled trial dataset, in < 2% of the RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients in the previously mentioned double-blind, placebo-controlled period of the monotherapy bipolar disorder trial dataset, or in < 4% of the RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients in the previously mentioned double-blind, placebo-controlled period of the adjunctive treatment bipolar disorder trial dataset. The following also includes additional adverse reactions reported at any frequency in RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients who participated in the open-label phases of the previously mentioned bipolar disorder studies and in other studies, including double-blind, active-controlled and open-label studies in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: anemia, neutropenia.
Cardiac disorders: tachycardia, atrioventricular block first degree, palpitations, sinus bradycardia, bundle branch block left, bradycardia, sinus tachycardia, bundle branch block right.
Ear and labyrinth disorders: ear pain, vertigo.
Endocrine disorders: hyperprolactinemia.
Eye disorders: conjunctivitis, visual acuity reduced.
Gastrointestinal disorders: diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain upper, abdominal pain, stomach discomfort, gastritis.
General disorders and administration site conditions: injection site pain, chest discomfort, chest pain, influenza like illness, sluggishness, malaise, induration, injection site induration, injection site swelling, injection site reaction, face edema.
Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity.
Infections and infestations: nasopharyngitis, influenza, bronchitis, urinary tract infection, rhinitis, respiratory tract infection, ear infection, pneumonia, lower respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis, sinusitis, viral infection, infection, localized infection, cystitis, gastroenteritis, subcutaneous abscess.
Injury and poisoning: fall, procedural pain.
Investigations: blood prolactin increased, alanine aminotransferase increased, electrocardiogram abnormal, gamma-glutamyl transferase increased, blood glucose increased, hepatic enzyme increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, glucose urine present.
Metabolism and nutritional disorders: anorexia, hyperglycemia.
Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders: posture abnormal, myalgia, back pain, buttock pain, muscular weakness, neck pain, musculoskeletal chest pain.
Nervous system disorders: coordination abnormal, dystonia, tardive dyskinesia, drooling, paresthesia, dizziness postural, convulsion, akinesia, hypokinesia, dysarthria.
Psychiatric disorders: insomnia, agitation, anxiety, sleep disorder, depression, initial insomnia, libido decreased, nervousness.
Renal and urinary disorders: urinary incontinence.
Reproductive system and breast disorders: galactorrhea, oligomenorrhea, erectile dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, ejaculation disorder, gynecomastia, breast discomfort, menstruation irregular, menstruation delayed, menstrual disorder, ejaculation delayed.
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: nasal congestion, pharyngolaryngeal pain, dyspnea, rhinorrhea.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: rash, eczema, pruritus generalized, pruritus.
Vascular disorders: hypotension, orthostatic hypotension.
Additional Adverse Reactions Reported with Oral RISPERDAL: The following is a list of additional adverse reactions that have been reported during the clinical trial evaluation of oral RISPERDAL, regardless of frequency of occurrence: Blood and Lymphatic Disorders: granulocytopenia.
Cardiac Disorders: atrioventricular block.
Ear and Labyrinth Disorders: tinnitus.
Eye Disorders: ocular hyperemia, eye discharge, eye rolling, eyelid edema, eye swelling, eyelid margin crusting, dry eye, lacrimation increased, photophobia, glaucoma.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: abdominal pain upper, dysphagia, fecaloma, abdominal discomfort, fecal incontinence, lip swelling, cheilitis, aptyalism.
General Disorders: thirst, feeling abnormal, gait disturbance, pitting edema, edema, chills, discomfort, generalized edema, drug withdrawal syndrome, peripheral coldness.
Immune System Disorders: drug hypersensitivity.
Infections and Infestations: tonsillitis, eye infection, cellulitis, otitis media, onychomycosis, acarodermatitis, bronchopneumonia, respiratory tract infection, tracheobronchitis, otitis media chronic.
Investigations: body temperature increased, heart rate increased, eosinophil count increased, white blood cell count decreased, hemoglobin decreased, blood creatine phosphokinase increased, hematocrit decreased, body temperature decreased, blood pressure decreased, transaminases increased.
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: polydipsia.
Musculoskeletal, Connective Tissue, and Bone Disorders: joint swelling, joint stiffness, rhabdomyolysis, torticollis.
Nervous System Disorders: hypertonia, balance disorder, dysarthria, unresponsive to stimuli, depressed level of consciousness, movement disorder, hypokinesia, parkinsonian rest tremor, transient ischemic attack, cerebrovascular accident, masked facies, speech disorder, loss of consciousness, muscle contractions involuntary, akinesia, cerebral ischemia, cerebrovascular disorder, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, diabetic coma, head titubation.
Psychiatric Disorders: blunted affect, confusional state, middle insomnia, listlessness, anorgasmia.
Renal and Urinary Disorders: enuresis, dysuria, pollakiuria.
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: vaginal discharge, retrograde ejaculation, ejaculation disorder, ejaculation failure, breast enlargement.
Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: epistaxis, wheezing, pneumonia aspiration, dysphonia, productive cough, pulmonary congestion, respiratory tract congestion, rales, respiratory disorder, hyperventilation, nasal edema.
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: erythema, skin discoloration, skin lesion, skin disorder, rash erythematous, rash papular, hyperkeratosis, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, rash generalized, rash maculopapular.
Vascular Disorders: flushing.
Discontinuations Due to Adverse Reactions: Schizophrenia: Approximately 11% (22/202) of RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients in the 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled schizophrenia trial discontinued treatment due to an adverse event, compared with 13% (13/98) who received placebo. The adverse reactions associated with discontinuation in two or more RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients were: agitation (3%), depression (2%), anxiety (1%), and akathisia (1%).
Bipolar Disorder: In the 24-month double-blind, placebo-controlled treatment period of the trial assessing the efficacy and safety of RISPERDAL CONSTA when administered as monotherapy for maintenance treatment in patients with bipolar I disorder, 1 (0.6%) of 154 RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients discontinued due to an adverse reaction (hyperglycemia).
In the 52-week double-blind phase of the placebo-controlled trial in which RISPERDAL CONSTA was administered as adjunctive therapy to patients with bipolar disorder in addition to continuing with their treatment as usual, approximately 4% (3/72) of RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients discontinued treatment due to an adverse event, compared with 1.5% (1/67) of placebo-treated patients. Adverse reactions associated with discontinuation in RISPERDAL CONSTA-treated patients were: hypokinesia (one patient) and tardive dyskinesia (one patient).
Dose Dependency of Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials: Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Two methods were used to measure extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) in the 12-week double‑blind, placebo-controlled trial comparing three doses of RISPERDAL CONSTA (25 mg, 50 mg, and 75 mg) with placebo in patients with schizophrenia, including: (1) the incidence of spontaneous reports of EPS symptoms; and (2) the change from baseline to endpoint on the total score (sum of the subscale scores for parkinsonism, dystonia, and dyskinesia) of the Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS).
As shown in Table 3, the overall incidence of EPS-related adverse reactions (akathisia, dystonia, parkinsonism, and tremor) in patients treated with 25 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA was comparable to that of patients treated with placebo; the incidence of EPS-related adverse reactions was higher in patients treated with 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA.
The median change from baseline to endpoint in total ESRS score showed no worsening in patients treated with RISPERDAL CONSTA compared with patients treated with placebo: 0 (placebo group); -1 (25-mg group, significantly less than the placebo group); and 0 (50-mg group).
Dystonia: Class Effect: Symptoms of dystonia, prolonged abnormal contractions of muscle groups, may occur in susceptible individuals during the first few days of treatment. Dystonic symptoms include: spasm of the neck muscles, sometimes progressing to tightness of the throat, swallowing difficulty, difficulty breathing, and/or protrusion of the tongue. While these symptoms can occur at low doses, they occur more frequently and with greater severity with high potency and at higher doses of first generation antipsychotic drugs. An elevated risk of acute dystonia is observed in males and younger age groups.
Changes in ECG: The electrocardiograms of 202 schizophrenic patients treated with 25 mg or 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA and 98 schizophrenic patients treated with placebo in the 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial were evaluated. Compared with placebo, there were no statistically significant differences in QTc intervals (using Fridericia's and linear correction factors) during treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA.
The electrocardiograms of 227 patients with Bipolar I Disorder were evaluated in the 24-month double-blind, placebo-controlled period. There were no clinically relevant differences in QTc intervals (using Fridericia's and linear correction factors) during treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA compared to placebo.
The electrocardiograms of 85 patients with bipolar disorder were evaluated in the 52-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. There were no statistically significant differences in QTc intervals (using Fridericia's and linear correction factors) during treatment with RISPERDAL CONSTA 25 mg, 37.5 mg, or 50 mg when administered as adjunctive treatment in addition to continuing treatment as usual compared to placebo.
Pain Assessment and Local Injection Site Reactions: The mean intensity of injection pain reported by patients with schizophrenia using a visual analog scale (0 = no pain to 100 = unbearably painful) decreased in all treatment groups from the first to the last injection (placebo: 16.7 to 12.6; 25 mg: 12.0 to 9.0; 50 mg: 18.2 to 11.8). After the sixth injection (Week 10), investigator ratings indicated that 1% of patients treated with 25 mg or 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA experienced redness, swelling, or induration at the injection site.
In a separate study to observe local-site tolerability in which RISPERDAL CONSTA was administered into the deltoid muscle every 2 weeks over a period of 8 weeks, no patient discontinued treatment due to local injection site pain or reaction. Clinician ratings indicated that only mild redness, swelling, or induration at the injection site was observed in subjects treated with 37.5 mg or 50 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA at 2 hours after deltoid injection. All ratings returned to baseline at the predose assessment of the next injection 2 weeks later. No moderate or severe reactions were observed in any subject.
Postmarketing Experience: The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of risperidone; because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency: agranulocytosis, alopecia, anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, atrial fibrillation, blood cholesterol increased, blood triglycerides increased, diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis in patients with impaired glucose metabolism, drug withdrawal syndrome neonatal, dysgeusia, floppy iris syndrome (intraoperative), hypoglycemia, hypothermia, ileus, inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, intestinal obstruction, jaundice, mania, pancreatitis, priapism, QT prolongation, sleep apnea syndrome, somnambulism, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), thrombocytopenia, urinary retention, and water intoxication. In addition, the following adverse reactions have been observed during postapproval use of RISPERDAL CONSTA: cerebrovascular disorders, including cerebrovascular accidents, and diabetes mellitus aggravated.
Retinal artery occlusion after injection of RISPERDAL CONSTA has been reported during postmarketing surveillance. This has been reported in the presence of abnormal arteriovenous anastomosis.
Serious injection site reactions including abscess, cellulitis, cyst, hematoma, necrosis, nodule, and ulcer have been reported with RISPERDAL CONSTA during postmarketing surveillance. Isolated cases required surgical intervention.
Very rarely, cases of anaphylactic reaction after injection with RISPERDAL CONSTA have been reported during postmarketing experience in patients who have previously tolerated oral risperidone.

Risperdal: Pharmacokinetic-related Interactions: The dose of RISPERDAL should be adjusted when used in combination with CYP 2D6 enzyme inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, and paroxetine) and enzyme inducers (e.g., carbamazepine) [see Table 23 and Dosage & Administration]. Dose adjustment is not recommended for RISPERDAL when co-administered with ranitidine, cimetidine, amitriptyline, or erythromycin [see Table 23].

Click on icon to see table/diagram/image

Effect of Risperidone on Other Drugs: Lithium: Repeated oral doses of RISPERDAL (3 mg twice daily) did not affect the exposure (AUC) or peak plasma concentrations (C_max) of lithium (n=13). Dose adjustment for lithium is not recommended.
Valproate: Repeated oral doses of RISPERDAL (4 mg once daily) did not affect the pre-dose or average plasma concentrations and exposure (AUC) of valproate (1000 mg/day in three divided doses) compared to placebo (n=21). However, there was a 20% increase in valproate peak plasma concentration (C_max) after concomitant administration of RISPERDAL. Dose adjustment for valproate is not recommended.
Digoxin: RISPERDAL (0.25 mg twice daily) did not show a clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of digoxin. Dose adjustment for digoxin is not recommended.
Pharmacodynamic-related Interactions: Centrally-Acting Drugs and Alcohol: Given the primary CNS effects of risperidone, caution should be used when RISPERDAL is taken in combination with other centrally-acting drugs and alcohol.
Drugs with Hypotensive Effects: Because of its potential for inducing hypotension, RISPERDAL may enhance the hypotensive effects of other therapeutic agents with this potential.
Levodopa and Dopamine Agonists: RISPERDAL may antagonize the effects of levodopa and dopamine agonists.
Clozapine: Chronic administration of clozapine with RISPERDAL may decrease the clearance of risperidone.
Risperdal Consta: The interactions of RISPERDAL CONSTA with coadministration of other drugs have not been systematically evaluated. The drug interaction data provided in this section is based on studies with oral RISPERDAL.
Centrally-Acting Drugs and Alcohol: Given the primary CNS effects of risperidone, caution should be used when RISPERDAL CONSTA is administered in combination with other centrally-acting drugs or alcohol.
Drugs with Hypotensive Effects: Because of its potential for inducing hypotension, RISPERDAL CONSTA may enhance the hypotensive effects of other therapeutic agents with this potential.
Levodopa and Dopamine Agonists: RISPERDAL CONSTA may antagonize the effects of levodopa and dopamine agonists.
Amitriptyline: Amitriptyline did not affect the pharmacokinetics of risperidone or of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone combined following concomitant administration with oral RISPERDAL.
Cimetidine and Ranitidine: Cimetidine and ranitidine increased the bioavailability of oral risperidone by 64% and 26%, respectively. However, cimetidine did not affect the AUC of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone combined, whereas ranitidine increased the AUC of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone combined by 20%.
Clozapine: Chronic administration of clozapine with risperidone may decrease the clearance of risperidone.
Lithium: Repeated doses of oral RISPERDAL (3 mg twice daily) did not affect the exposure (AUC) or peak plasma concentrations (C_max) of lithium (N=13).
Valproate: Repeated doses of oral RISPERDAL (4 mg once daily) did not affect the pre-dose or average plasma concentrations and exposure (AUC) of valproate (1000 mg/day in three divided doses) compared to placebo (N=21). However, there was a 20% increase in valproate peak plasma concentration (C_max) after concomitant administration of oral RISPERDAL.
Digoxin: Oral RISPERDAL (0.25 mg twice daily) did not show a clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of digoxin.
Topiramate: Oral RISPERDAL administered at doses from 1-6 mg/day concomitantly with topiramate 400 mg/day resulted in a 23% decrease in risperidone C_max and a 33% decrease in risperidone AUC_{0-12 hour} at steady state. Minimal reductions in the exposure to risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone combined, and no change for 9-hydroxyrisperidone were observed. This interaction is unlikely to be of clinical significance. There was no clinically relevant effect of oral RISPERDAL on the pharmacokinetics of topiramate.
Drugs That Inhibit CYP 2D6 and Other CYP Isozymes: Risperidone is metabolized to 9-hydroxyrisperidone by CYP 2D6, an enzyme that is polymorphic in the population and that can be inhibited by a variety of psychotropic and other drugs [see Pharmacology: Pharmacokinetics under Actions]. Drug interactions that reduce the metabolism of risperidone to 9-hydroxyrisperidone would increase the plasma concentrations of risperidone and lower the concentrations of 9-hydroxyrisperidone. Analysis of clinical studies involving a modest number of poor metabolizers (n≅70 patients) does not suggest that poor and extensive metabolizers have different rates of adverse effects. No comparison of effectiveness in the two groups has been made.
In vitro studies showed that drugs metabolized by other CYP isozymes, including 1A1, 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4, are only weak inhibitors of risperidone metabolism.
Fluoxetine and Paroxetine: Fluoxetine (20 mg once daily) and paroxetine (20 mg once daily), CYP 2D6 inhibitors, have been shown to increase the plasma concentration of risperidone 2.5-2.8 fold and 3-9 fold respectively. Fluoxetine did not affect the plasma concentration of 9-hydroxyrisperidone. Paroxetine lowered the concentration of 9-hydroxyrisperidone by about 10%. When either concomitant fluoxetine or paroxetine is initiated or discontinued, the physician should re‑evaluate the dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA. When initiation of fluoxetine or paroxetine is considered, patients may be placed on a lower dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA between 2 to 4 weeks before the planned start of fluoxetine or paroxetine therapy to adjust for the expected increase in plasma concentrations of risperidone. When fluoxetine or paroxetine is initiated in patients receiving the recommended dose of 25 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA, it is recommended to continue treatment with the 25-mg dose unless clinical judgment necessitates lowering the RISPERDAL CONSTA dose to 12.5 mg or necessitates interruption of RISPERDAL CONSTA treatment. When RISPERDAL CONSTA is initiated in patients already receiving fluoxetine or paroxetine, a starting dose of 12.5 mg can be considered. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials [see also Dosage & Administration]. The effects of discontinuation of concomitant fluoxetine or paroxetine therapy on the pharmacokinetics of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone have not been studied.
Erythromycin: There were no significant interactions between oral RISPERDAL and erythromycin.
Carbamazepine and Other CYP 3A4 Enzyme Inducers: Carbamazepine co-administration with oral RISPERDAL decreased the steady-state plasma concentrations of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone by about 50%. Plasma concentrations of carbamazepine did not appear to be affected. Co-administration of other known CYP 3A4 enzyme inducers (e.g., phenytoin, rifampin, and phenobarbital) with risperidone may cause similar decreases in the combined plasma concentrations of risperidone and 9‑hydroxyrisperidone, which could lead to decreased efficacy of RISPERDAL CONSTA treatment. At the initiation of therapy with carbamazepine or other known hepatic enzyme inducers, patients should be closely monitored during the first 4-8 weeks, since the dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA may need to be adjusted. A dose increase, or additional oral RISPERDAL, may need to be considered. On discontinuation of carbamazepine or other CYP 3A4 hepatic enzyme inducers, the dosage of RISPERDAL CONSTA should be re-evaluated and, if necessary, decreased. Patients may be placed on a lower dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA between 2 to 4 weeks before the planned discontinuation of carbamazepine or other CYP 3A4 enzyme inducers to adjust for the expected increase in plasma concentrations of risperidone plus 9-hydroxyrisperidone. For patients treated with the recommended dose of 25 mg RISPERDAL CONSTA and discontinuing from carbamazepine or other CYP 3A4 enzyme inducers, it is recommended to continue treatment with the 25-mg dose unless clinical judgment necessitates lowering the RISPERDAL CONSTA dose to 12.5 mg or necessitates interruption of RISPERDAL CONSTA treatment. The efficacy of the 12.5 mg dose has not been investigated in clinical trials [see also Dosage & Administration].
Drugs Metabolized by CYP 2D6: In vitro studies indicate that risperidone is a relatively weak inhibitor of CYP 2D6. Therefore, RISPERDAL CONSTA is not expected to substantially inhibit the clearance of drugs that are metabolized by this enzymatic pathway. In drug interaction studies, oral RISPERDAL did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of donepezil and galantamine, which are metabolized by CYP 2D6.

Risperdal Consta: Instructions for Use: For deltoid or gluteal intramuscular injection only.
Important Information: RISPERDAL CONSTA requires close attention to these step-by-step Instructions for Use to help ensure successful administration.
Use components provided. The components in this dose pack are specifically designed for use with RISPERDAL CONSTA. RISPERDAL CONSTA must be reconstituted only in the diluent supplied in the dose pack. Do not substitute ANY components of the dose pack.
Do not store suspension after reconstitution. Administer dose as soon as possible after reconstitution to avoid settling.
Proper dosing. The entire contents of the vial must be administered to ensure intended dose of RISPERDAL CONSTA is delivered.
Do not reuse. Medical devices require specific material characteristics to perform as intended. These characteristics have been verified for single use only. Any attempt to re-process the device for subsequent re-use may adversely affect the integrity of the device or lead to deterioration in performance.
Step 1: Assemble components.
Take out dose pack. Connect vial adapter to vial.
Wait 30 minutes. Remove dose pack from the refrigerator and allow to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before reconstituting. Do not warm any other way.
Remove cap from vial. Flip off colored cap from vial. Wipe top of the grey stopper with an alcohol swab. Allow to air dry. Do not remove grey rubber stopper.
Prepare vial adapter. Hold sterile blister. Peel back and remove paper backing. Do not remove vial adapter from blister. Do not touch spike tip at any time. This will result in contamination.
Connect vial adapter to vial. Place vial on a hard surface and hold by the base. Center vial adapter over the grey rubber stopper. Push vial adapter straight down onto vial top until it snaps securely into place. Do not place vial adapter on at an angle or diluent may leak upon transfer to the vial.
Connect prefilled syringe to vial adapter.
Remove sterile blister. Remove vial adapter from sterile blister only when ready to remove the white cap from the prefilled syringe. Keep vial vertical to prevent leakage. Hold base of vial and pull up on the sterile blister to remove. Do not shake. Do not touch exposed luer opening on vial adapter. This will result in contamination. Use proper grip. Hold by white collar at the tip of the syringe. Do not hold syringe by the glass barrel during assembly.
Remove cap. Holding the white collar, snap off the white cap. Do not twist or cut off the white cap. Do not touch syringe tip. This will result in contamination. The broken-off cap can be discarded.
Connect syringe to vial adapter. Hold vial adapter by skirt to keep stationary. Hold syringe by white collar then insert tip into the luer opening of the vial adapter. Do not hold the glass syringe barrel. This may cause the white collar to loosen or detach. Attach the syringe to the vial adapter with a firm clockwise twisting motion until it feels snug. Do not over-tighten. Over-tightening may cause the syringe tip to break.
Step 2: Reconstitute microspheres.
Inject diluent. Inject entire amount of diluent from syringe into the vial. Vial contents will now be under pressure. Keep holding the plunger rod down with thumb.
Suspend microspheres in diluent. Continuing to hold down the plunger rod, shake vigorously for at least 10 seconds. Check the suspension. When properly mixed, the suspension appears uniform, thick and milky in color. Microspheres will be visible in the liquid. Immediately proceed to the next step so suspension does not settle.
Transfer suspension to syringe. Invert vial completely. Slowly pull plunger rod down to withdraw entire contents from the vial into the syringe.
Remove vial adapter. Hold white collar on the syringe and unscrew from vial adapter. Tear section of the vial label at the perforation. Apply detached label to the syringe for identification purposes. Discard both vial and vial adapter appropriately.
Step 3: Attach needle.
Select appropriate needle. Choose needle based on injection location (gluteal or deltoid).
Attach needle. Peel blister pouch open part way and use to grasp the base of the needle. Holding the white collar on the syringe, attach syringe to needle luer connection with a firm clockwise twisting motion until snug. Do not touch needle luer opening. This will result in contamination.
Resuspend microspheres. Fully remove the blister pouch. Just before injection, shake syringe vigorously again, as some settling will have occurred.
Step 4: Inject dose.
Remove transparent needle protector. Move the needle safety device back towards the syringe. Then hold white collar on syringe and carefully pull the transparent needle protector straight off. Do not twist transparent needle protector, as the luer connection may loosen.
Remove air bubbles. Hold needle upright and tap gently to make any air bubbles rise to the top. Slowly and carefully press plunger rod upward to remove air.
Inject. Immediately inject entire contents of syringe intramuscularly (IM) into the gluteal or deltoid muscle of the patient. Gluteal injection should be made into the upper-outer quadrant of the gluteal area. Do not administer intravenously.
Secure needle in safety device. Using one hand, place needle safety device at a 45-degree angle on a hard, flat surface. Press down with a firm, quick motion until needle is fully engaged in safety device. Avoid needle stick injury. Do not use two hands. Do not intentionally disengage or mishandle the needle safety device. Do not attempt to straighten the needle or engage the safety device if the needle is bent or damaged.
Properly dispose of needles. Check to confirm needle safety device is fully engaged. Discard in an approved sharps container. Also discard the unused needle provided in the dose pack.
Incompatibilities: RISPERDAL CONSTA cannot be mixed or diluted with drugs or fluids other than the supplied diluent for administration.

Risperdal: RISPERDAL Tablets should be stored between 15°C and 30°C.
RISPERDAL Oral Solution should be stored between 15°C and 30°C and should be protected from freezing.
Risperdal Consta: The entire dose pack should be stored in the refrigerator (2-8°C) and protected from light. It should not be exposed to temperatures above 25°C.
If refrigeration is unavailable, RISPERDAL CONSTA can be stored at temperatures not exceeding 25°C for no more than 7 days prior to administration. Do not expose unrefrigerated product to temperatures above 25°C.
Shelf Life: After reconstitution: Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated for 24 hours at 25°C. From a microbiological point of view, the product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions prior to use are the responsibility of the user and would normally not be longer than 6 hours at 25°C, unless reconstitution has taken place in controlled and validated aseptic conditions.

Physicians are advised to discuss the following issues with patients for whom they prescribe RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA and their caregivers.
Orthostatic Hypotension: Patients and caregivers should be advised about the risk of orthostatic hypotension, especially during the period of initial dose titration, and instructed in nonpharmacologic interventions that help to reduce the occurrence of orthostatic hypotension (e.g., sitting on the edge of the bed for several minutes before attempting to stand in the morning and slowly rising from a seated position) [see Precautions].
Interference with Cognitive and Motor Performance: Because RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, patients and caregivers should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles, until patients are reasonably certain that treatment with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA does not affect them adversely [see Precautions].
Concomitant Medication: Patients and caregivers should be advised to inform their physicians if patients are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, since there is a potential for interactions [see Interactions].
Alcohol: Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol during treatment with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA [see Interactions].
Pregnancy: Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA. Advise patients that RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA may cause extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms in a neonate.
Advise patients that there is a pregnancy registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to RISPERDAL during pregnancy [see Use in Pregnancy & Lactation].
Lactation: Advise breastfeeding women using RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA to monitor infants for somnolence, failure to thrive, jitteriness, and extrapyramidal symptoms (tremors and abnormal muscle movements) and to seek medical care if they notice these signs [see Use in Pregnancy & Lactation].
Infertility: Advise females of reproductive potential that RISPERDAL/RISPERDAL CONSTA may impair fertility due to an increase in serum prolactin levels. The effects on fertility are reversible [see Use in Pregnancy & Lactation].
Risperdal: Metabolic Changes: Inform patients and caregivers that treatment with RISPERDAL can be associated with hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and weight gain [see Precautions].
Tardive Dyskinesia: Inform patients and caregivers about the risk of tardive dyskinesia [see Precautions].

Antipsychotics

N05AX08 - risperidone ; Belongs to the class of other antipsychotics.

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