Risperidone, commonly known as the brand Risperdal, is a medication primarily prescribed for severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and manic episodes of bipolar disorder. Because of its calming effects, staff members at some nursing homes resort to giving this drug to agitated and combative patients to quiet them down. Unfortunately, serious negative consequences can occur. A family whose loved one was given this drug without a doctor’s authorization may want to contact a Personal Injury Attorney in Tallassee AL.
How Risperidone Works
Risperidone is classified as an atypical antipsychotic drug. It reduces the activity of various neurotransmitters, especially dopamine and serotonin, by blocking certain receptors in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals stored in nerve cells that transmit messages between nerve cells.
Schizophrenia and the manic phase of bipolar disorder are associated with overactivity of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine. Dopamine and serotonin are involved in mood and behavior, and a certain level of neurotransmitter overactivity seems to cause the delusions and hallucinations in psychotic disorders.
Risperidone and Dementia Patients
Risperidone can be used effectively as a short-term treatment for aggressive behavior in people with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. But, risperidone increases the risk of stroke and death in elderly people with dementia. Therefore, it should only be used in specific difficult cases with the family’s permission and under a physician’s supervision. Otherwise, giving these patients the medication is considered malpractice.
It’s unclear why these severe negative effects are connected with the drug in this population group. However, the risk of improper use is real. A Personal Injury Attorney in Tallassee AL provides free initial consultations to families dealing with this situation.
Other Possible Side Effects
Many less-serious side effects are associated with risperidone and may affect nursing home patients taking it. Documented side effects included stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Drowsiness affects more than half of those who take it. Other effects that occur in 20 to 30 percent of patients include upper respiratory tract infections, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety. Families who discover their loved one residing in a nursing home has been given this drug may contact a law firm such as Courtney & Mann LLP for help.
