About Generic Risperdal
Risperdal is the brand name for the generic drug Risperidone. It's classified as a Benzisoxazole antipsychotic medication and acts to alter the effects of the chemicals that are produced in the brain. Risperdal is primarily used to treat psychological disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and to help manage symptoms of irritability in autistic children.
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Significance
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Risperdal is a prescription only medication that is manufactured by Janssen, L.P. Generic Risperdal is available from several different manufacturers including: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan Pharmaceuticals and the Apotex Corporation. Patriot Pharmaceutics makes what's considered to be the "authorized generic pharmaceutical" of Janssen Pharmaceutical's product.
Generic Risperdal tablets are available under the name Risperidone. The tablets come in the same strengths as the brand does; 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg, 3mg and4 mg. Risperdal is also available in a 1mg oral solution and orally disintegrating tablets (Risperdal M-Tabs); however, these forms are not yet offered from the generic.
Features
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Since the cost of prescription drugs is so high, many doctors prescribe generic brands to their patients. It's important to understand what this means and how the two forms of the drug differ. In order for a generic medication to become available to the public, it is required to go through specific tests which evaluate and weigh it against its brand name counterpart. The results and findings are then given to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA carefully examines the assessment to determine whether or not the generics are comparable to the brand name. Afterwards, the FDA gives the generic version a rating. When a generic medication is awarded an "AB" rating, it means the FDA concluded it was equivalent to the brand name medication.
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Identification
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In regards to the generic Risperidone, the FDA administered an "AB," which indicates that they found it to be as effective as Risperdal. That being said, it's important to look at all of the ingredients that a generic medication contains. Some people may have no problem taking the brand name version of a drug but are unable to take the generic. Generic medications are permitted to contain various inactive ingredients, such as dyes, fillers and gels. Some of these inactive ingredients can be of potential harm to individuals with certain allergies or adverse reactions.
Effects
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Medications that fall under the antipsychotic class are attributed with a number of side effects. Common side effects of Risperdal include: insomnia, feelings of fatigue and sedation, tremors, excessive salivation, akathisia, anxiety, a decrease in blood pressure, aches and stiffness in muscles and joints, sexual dysfunction and weight gain.
Considerations
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Antipsychotic drugs also run the risk of causing conditions such as tardive dyskinesia (TD) and neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Additionally, Risperidone can set off diabetes and other severe conditions regarding glucose metabolism. Inform your doctor of any preexisting medical conditions you have and all medications that you are currently taken or have taken in recently. This includes vitamins, supplements and other over the counter remedies. Advise your doctor of any side effects that you experience and be sure to follow the exact recommended dosage that was given to you. Below are links containing additional information about Risperidone.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Generic Versions of Risperdal(www.straightfromthedoc.com)
