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risperidone (Risperdal)
Risperidone blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain to reduce psychotic symptoms and stabilize mood.
Risperidone blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain to reduce psychotic symptoms and stabilize mood. Used for Schizophrenia, Bipolar I disorder (acute mania and maintenance), Irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder.
At a glance
| Generic name | risperidone (Risperdal) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | University of South Florida |
| Drug class | Atypical antipsychotic |
| Target | Dopamine D2 receptor, Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Psychiatry/Neurology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic that antagonizes dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways, reducing positive symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations and delusions. It also blocks serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, which contributes to its efficacy in treating negative symptoms and mood disturbances. This dual antagonism distinguishes it from typical antipsychotics and is associated with a lower risk of extrapyramidal side effects.
Approved indications
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar I disorder (acute mania and maintenance)
- Irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder
- Aggression and behavioral disturbances in dementia
Common side effects
- Weight gain
- Sedation
- Prolactin elevation (hyperprolactinemia)
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (tremor, rigidity, akathisia)
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Metabolic syndrome
- QT prolongation
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
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |