Is risperidone an anti anxiety?

Risperidone is primarily an antipsychotic medication that is used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. Although it is not specifically approved for the treatment of anxiety disorders, some studies have suggested that it may have some anti-anxiety effects.

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions that are characterized by excessive and persistent fear, worry, and anxiety that can interfere with daily life. They are typically treated with medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines.

However, some research has shown that risperidone may be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety in certain populations. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that risperidone was effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, as compared to a placebo.

Another study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that risperidone was effective in reducing symptoms of social anxiety disorder in patients with autism spectrum disorder. The study also found that risperidone improved social functioning and reduced repetitive behaviors in these patients.

It’s worth noting that while risperidone may have some anti-anxiety effects, it is not typically the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, and its use for this purpose is generally considered off-label. Additionally, like all medications, risperidone can have side effects, and it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, while risperidone is not specifically approved for the treatment of anxiety disorders, some studies have suggested that it may have some anti-anxiety effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using risperidone for anxiety disorders. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for you.


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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