Does risperidone stop depression?

Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication that is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. While it is not typically prescribed as a first-line treatment for depression, it may be used in certain cases. Here is an overview of how risperidone may affect depression:

Mechanism of action

Risperidone works by blocking the action of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters that are involved in mood regulation. By blocking the action of these neurotransmitters, risperidone can help to reduce symptoms of psychosis and mania in people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, it is not entirely clear how risperidone may affect depression.

Limited evidence for treating depression

While risperidone is not typically prescribed as a first-line treatment for depression, there is some evidence to suggest that it may be effective in certain cases. For example, a small study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that risperidone was effective in reducing symptoms of depression in patients who had not responded to other treatments.

However, it is important to note that this study was small and had some limitations. Additionally, other studies have not found risperidone to be effective in treating depression, or have found that it may be associated with significant side effects. More research is needed to determine whether risperidone is a safe and effective treatment for depression.

Overall, while risperidone may be effective in treating some symptoms of depression, it is not typically prescribed as a first-line treatment and may be associated with significant side effects. Anyone considering taking risperidone for depression 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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