Is risperidone the same as Xanax?

No, risperidone is not the same as Xanax. While both medications are used to treat mental health conditions, they belong to different classes of medications and have different mechanisms of action.

Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication that is primarily used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. The medication works by changing the activity of certain chemicals in the brain, which can help to improve mood, thinking, and behavior.

On the other hand, Xanax is a benzodiazepine medication that is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorder. The medication works by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

While both medications can have a calming effect, they work in different ways and are used to treat different conditions. Additionally, they can have different side effects and risks.

For example, benzodiazepines like Xanax can be habit-forming and can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. They can also cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination, which can increase the risk of falls and accidents. Antipsychotic medications like risperidone can cause side effects such as weight gain, diabetes, and movement disorders.

It’s worth noting that the use of any medication should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional, and medication should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include therapy and other non-medication treatments.

In conclusion, risperidone and Xanax are different medications that belong to different classes of medications and are used to treat different conditions. While both medications can have a calming effect, they have different mechanisms of action, side effects, and risks. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for your specific needs and concerns.


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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