Can risperidone improve thinking?

Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication that is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While it is not approved by the FDA for the treatment of cognitive impairment or to improve thinking, there is some evidence to suggest that it may have some cognitive benefits in certain cases.

Some studies have found that risperidone may improve cognitive function in people with schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders. For example, a systematic review published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that risperidone was associated with improvements in attention, executive function, and working memory in people with schizophrenia.

However, it is important to note that the evidence for the cognitive benefits of risperidone is mixed, and the medication may also cause side effects that can affect cognitive function. For example, some people may experience drowsiness or slowed thinking as a side effect of risperidone.

Ultimately, whether risperidone can improve thinking will depend on the individual and their specific symptoms. Anyone considering taking risperidone for cognitive impairment or other reasons should speak with their healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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