Key takeaways
Risperidone (Risperdal) and aripiprazole (Abilify) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Risperidone is also used for irritability in children with autism, while aripiprazole is used for Tourette syndrome and as an add-on treatment for depression. Risperidone is available in various forms, including tablets, dissolvable tablets, and oral solutions, and is typically taken once or twice daily. In contrast, aripiprazole is usually taken once daily and comes in tablets, oral solutions, and orally disintegrating tablets. Common side effects of risperidone include sleepiness, movement problems, and weight gain, whereas aripiprazole often causes headaches, movement problems, and sleep issues. Aripiprazole is less likely to cause weight gain compared to risperidone. Both medications can raise blood sugar and cholesterol levels, but aripiprazole has a lower risk of these side effects.
