Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Risperdal Consta

Risperdal Consta is a long-acting injectable antipsychotic that blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the brain to reduce psychotic symptoms.

Risperdal Consta is a long-acting injectable antipsychotic that blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the brain to reduce psychotic symptoms. Used for Schizophrenia, Bipolar I disorder maintenance treatment.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Risperidone, the active ingredient, antagonizes dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, which reduces positive symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations and delusions. The Consta formulation uses microsphere technology to provide sustained drug release over 2 weeks, improving medication adherence in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Approved indications

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar I disorder maintenance treatment

Common side effects

• Injection site pain
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Weight gain
• Extrapyramidal symptoms
• Prolactin elevation
• Orthostatic hypotension

Key clinical trials

• Elucidating the Relevance of the Psychedelic Experience to Psilocybin's Anti-Anhedonic Effects (PHASE1)
• Subjective Experience Following Psilocybin (PHASE2)
• CLOZAPINE Response in Biotype-1 (PHASE4)
• National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications
• "Extended" (Alternate Day) Antipsychotic Dosing (PHASE4)
• Impact of Aripiprazole Once Monthly Medications on Changes in Brain Structure and Metabolism (PHASE4)
• Neuroprotective Effects of Risperdal on Brain and Cognition in 22q11 Deletion Syndrome (NA)
• A Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of ASP4345 as Add-on Treatment for Cognitive Impairment in Subjects With Schizophrenia on Stable Doses of Antipsychotic Medication (PHASE2)

Primary sources

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