RISPERDAL CONSTA 50MG INJECTION

How RISPERDAL CONSTA 50MG INJECTION Works

• RISPERDAL CONSTA 50MG INJECTION is an atypical antipsychotic medication that works by affecting several neurotransmitters in the brain to help restore chemical balance. Its active ingredient, risperidone, primarily antagonizes dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This dual action is key to its effectiveness in managing psychotic symptoms.
• Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and motor control. However, in conditions like schizophrenia, there can be an overactivity of dopamine in certain brain pathways, leading to positive symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Risperidone blocks dopamine D2 receptors, effectively reducing dopamine activity in these pathways, which helps alleviate these symptoms.
• Serotonin is another neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite. By blocking serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, risperidone indirectly enhances dopamine release in other brain areas (specifically in the prefrontal cortex). This is important because reduced dopamine activity in the prefrontal cortex is associated with negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as blunted affect, social withdrawal, and lack of motivation. The serotonin antagonism helps to mitigate these negative symptoms, providing a more comprehensive therapeutic effect.
• The 'CONSTA' formulation refers to the long-acting injectable form of risperidone. Once injected intramuscularly, the microspheres containing risperidone gradually release the medication over a period of two weeks. This provides a consistent and sustained level of the drug in the body, eliminating the need for daily oral medication. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty adhering to a daily medication regimen. After injection, risperidone is slowly released as the microspheres degrade. Overtime, the risperidone released exerts its effect on dopamine and serotonin receptors, which helps in stabilizing mood, reducing psychotic symptoms, and improving overall functioning in individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
• In summary, RISPERDAL CONSTA works by a dual mechanism: reducing dopamine activity to control positive symptoms and modulating serotonin to improve negative symptoms. The long-acting injectable formulation ensures consistent medication levels, promoting better symptom control and adherence.

RISPERDAL CONSTA (risperidone) can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects include: * **Movement Disorders:** Parkinsonism (tremor, slow movement, stiffness), akathisia (restlessness, inability to sit still), dystonia (muscle spasms or contractions). * **Psychiatric:** Insomnia, anxiety, agitation, depression. * **Nervous System:** Sedation, dizziness, headache. * **Gastrointestinal:** Nausea, constipation, dyspepsia (indigestion), vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dry mouth, toothache. * **Respiratory:** Upper respiratory tract infection, rhinitis (runny nose), sinusitis, cough. * **Cardiovascular:** Orthostatic hypotension (dizziness upon standing), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), hypertension (high blood pressure). * **Metabolic:** Weight gain, increased appetite, increased blood sugar, increased cholesterol, decreased libido. * **Dermatological:** Rash, dry skin. * **Musculoskeletal:** Back pain, arthralgia (joint pain). * **Endocrine:** Galactorrhea (milk production in women), gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men), menstrual irregularities. * **Other:** Fatigue, pain, fever, edema (swelling), blurred vision, urinary incontinence. Less common but more serious side effects include: * **Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS):** A rare but potentially fatal reaction with symptoms like high fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. * **Tardive Dyskinesia (TD):** Involuntary movements, especially of the face and tongue, which may be irreversible. * **Cerebrovascular Events:** Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), especially in elderly patients with dementia. * **Hyperglycemia and Diabetes:** Worsening of existing diabetes or development of new-onset diabetes. * **Agranulocytosis:** A severe decrease in white blood cells, increasing the risk of infection. * **Seizures:** Increased risk of seizures. * **Prolonged QT Interval:** An electrical heart problem that can lead to dangerous heart rhythms. * **Venous Thromboembolism (VTE):** Blood clots in the veins. * **Priapism:** Prolonged and painful erection. This is not an exhaustive list. Patients should report any unusual or bothersome symptoms to their doctor.

• It is very important to adhere to the injection schedule provided by your doctor. If you miss a scheduled injection of RISPERDAL CONSTA, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to self-administer a missed dose. Your doctor will determine the appropriate course of action and adjust the schedule accordingly to maintain consistent therapeutic levels of the medication.

• Keep RISPERDAL CONSTA 50MG INJ 2ML away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store RISPERDAL CONSTA 50MG INJ 2ML at room temperature.

• RISPERDAL CONSTA 50MG INJECTION does not have any known interactions with food. It can be administered without regard to meals.