How quickly does Risperdal relieve symptoms of schizophrenia?
The recommended dose is usually reached within three to four weeks, and improvement of symptoms may be noticed in some patients relatively quickly. Some adjustments may be necessary to reach the optimal dose for each patient. It is normally advisable to give the medication a trial period of at least four to six weeks at the optimal dose (6 mg/day) before evaluating its effectiveness, although experience with clozapine suggests that improvements may take months to fully emerge. Side Effects of Risperdal When taken at the manufacturer’s recommended dose of 6 mg a day (3 mg twice a day), the incidence of many side effects is not significantly greater than for placebo. These side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms (muscle stiffness, tremors, and body shakes). At higher doses, extrapyramidal side effects often increase. Benztropine (Cogentin) can be prescribed to reduce or eliminate stiffness and tremors, but its use beyond three months should be re-evaluated. More significant possible
