What is Risperdal?
Risperdal, which has the generic name risperidone, is marketed by Janssen Pharmaceutica, Inc. and received FDA approval in 1993. Risperdal falls into the category of pharmaceuticals known as atypical antipsychotics, which were introduced as a new type of medications for the treatment of schizophrenia. The drugs in the atypical antipsychotics class are prescribed for the treatment of symptoms associated with schizophrenia and Bipolar I disorder. Schizophrenia, a mental illness that can distort the way you perceive the world around you, may include symptoms such as delusions, hearing voices or seeing things. People with bipolar I disorder, a mood disorder also known as manic-depressive disorder, may suffer from manic episodes. In addition to Risperdal, other medications that fall into the atypical antipsychotic category include Zyprexa, Abilify, and Seroquel.
