How much risperidone is safe?

The safe and effective dose of risperidone can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s age, weight, medical history, and the condition being treated. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by a healthcare provider and to never exceed the prescribed dose.

The typical starting dose of risperidone for the treatment of schizophrenia is 1-2 milligrams per day, while the typical starting dose for bipolar disorder is 2-3 milligrams per day. The dose may be gradually increased over time if necessary, with the maximum recommended dose being 8 milligrams per day for schizophrenia and 6 milligrams per day for bipolar disorder.

For the treatment of irritability associated with autism spectrum disorder, the starting dose is typically lower, with a maximum dose of 3 milligrams per day.

It is important to note that risperidone can cause side effects, some of which may be significant. Anyone taking risperidone should be monitored closely by a healthcare provider for potential side effects, including movement disorders, metabolic changes, and cardiovascular effects.

Ultimately, the safe and effective dose of risperidone will depend on the individual and their specific medical history and condition. Anyone with questions or concerns about the appropriate dose of risperidone should speak with their healthcare provider.


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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