Paliperidone vs Risperidone: A Comparison of Antipsychotic Medications

Paliperidone and risperidone are both atypical antipsychotic medications commonly used to treat schizophrenia and related conditions. While they have similar mechanisms of action, there are some differences between the two medications that are important to consider.

Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between paliperidone and risperidone:

  1. Formulations: Paliperidone is available in both oral and extended-release injection formulations, while risperidone is available in oral tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and injections.
  2. Potency: Paliperidone is a more potent version of risperidone, as it is the active metabolite of risperidone. This means that paliperidone is a stronger medication and may be more effective for some individuals.
  3. Side effects: While both medications can cause similar side effects such as weight gain, sedation, and movement disorders, individual side effects can vary between the two medications. For example, risperidone is more likely to cause hyperprolactinemia, while paliperidone is more likely to cause QT interval prolongation.
  4. Dosage: The dosing regimens for paliperidone and risperidone can differ, with paliperidone typically being given as a once-daily dose and risperidone being given as a once- or twice-daily dose.

When considering paliperidone vs risperidone, it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your individual needs. Factors such as the severity of symptoms, side effect profile, and personal preferences will all be taken into account.

In conclusion, both paliperidone and risperidone are effective medications for treating symptoms of schizophrenia and related conditions. While they share many similarities, there are also some important differences to consider. By working closely with a healthcare provider, individuals can make an informed decision about which medication is right for them.


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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