Risperdal Consta

Before taking this medicine

Do not use Risperdal Consta if you have a known allergy to risperidone, paliperidone or any of its ingredients. Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema (swelling), have been reported. Risperdal Consta is not approved for patients with dementia-related psychosis. Stroke and other events affecting blood flow to the brain have been reported in elderly patients with this condition. Tell your prescriber if you have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes; heart or blood vessel disease; a history of stroke, seizures or low white blood cell counts; kidney or liver problems; or difficulty swallowing or a risk of aspiration pneumonia. Blood sugar, weight and, in certain patients, white blood cell counts need monitoring. Treatment can also affect blood fats and raise prolactin levels, which may reduce bone density when prolonged and associated with low sex hormone levels. A fall in blood pressure on standing, dizziness and fainting can occur. Elderly patients may be more susceptible. Risperdal Consta can impair judgment, thinking and movement, so use caution when driving or operating machinery. Serious risks include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, potentially persistent involuntary movements (tardive dyskinesia), and a prolonged erection (priapism), which may require surgery. Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant. Exposure during the third trimester may cause movement-related or withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in people under 18 years of age.