RISPERDAL

Risperdal is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson and is prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and dementia-related pschosis. It is also prescribed for a number of off label uses including behavioral disorders in the elderly population, conduct problems in children, anxiety and autism.

Two major statements have been issued conserning serious advers side effects associated with taking Risperdal:

• April, 2003 - Reports indicated that elderly patients taking Risperdal have an increased risk of suffering from cerebrovascular problems, including stroke.
• July, 2004 - Johnson & Hojnson was required by the FDA to issue a warning about the complications associated with Risperdal use. Risperdal, and other drugs of its class, have been shown to cause hyperglycemia, which can lead to ketoacidosis, coma and even death.