Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic drug which is mainly used to treat schizophrenia (including adolescent schizophrenia), schizoaffective disorder, the mixed and manic states associated with bipolar disorder, and irritability in people with autism. Risperidone belongs to the class of atypical antipsychotics. It is a dopamine antagonist possessing antiserotonergic, antiadrenergic and antihistaminergic properties. Risperidone is used for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and behavior problems in people with autism. A 2010 Cochrane review found a slight benefit during the first few weeks of treatment of schizophrenia but the article raised concerns regarding bias favoring risperidone. In autism, however, it does not improve conversational ability or social skills, and does not appear to reduce obsessive behavior in most autistic people.
-K871.gif)