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Risperdal vs. Xanax

Risperidone (Risperdal) is an atypical antipsychotic that's used to improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors in people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism. It's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Common side effects of risperidone (Risperdal) include sleepiness, movement problems, and weight gain. Risperidone (Risperdal) can interact with some medications, such as certain antidepressants or blood pressure medications. Taking these medications together can make certain side effects worse.

• Schizophrenia - people ages 13 years and older
• Manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder - people ages 10 years and older
• Irritability associated with autism - children ages 5 to 17 years old

Adults:

• Muscle stiffness, muscle tightening, difficulty with movement (25%)
• Extreme sleepiness (11%)
• Restlessness, trouble remaining still (9%)
• Tremor (6%)
• Dizziness (6%)
• Nausea (5%)
• Repetitive movements, abnormal postures (5%)

Children:

• Extreme sleepiness (up to 56%)
• Dizziness (up to 16%)
• Nausea or vomiting (up to 16%)
• Stomach pain (up to 16%)
• Muscle stiffness, muscle tightening, difficulty with movement (up to 12%)
• Heartburn (up to 10%)
• Sore throat (up to 10%)

• Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Difficulty controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)
• Weight gain, higher blood sugar, and higher cholesterol levels
• High prolactin levels
• Changes in blood pressure and higher risk of falls
• Risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
• Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
• Seizures
• Prolonged and painful erection
• Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only

Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day or as directed by your healthcare team. To avoid the risk of dependence, alprazolam (Xanax) is meant for short-term treatment only. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness and memory problems. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam (Xanax) because this can lead to serious interactions.

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Panic disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder:

• Drowsiness (41%)
• Lightheadedness (21%)
• Dry mouth (15%)

Panic disorder:

• Drowsiness (77%)
• Fatigue (49%)
• Poor coordination (40%)
• Memory issues (33%)
• Irritability (33%)
• Appetite changes (28-33%)
• Thinking problems (29%)
• Constipation (26%)

Side effects listed are for the immediate-release forms. Side effects for extended-release form might differ.

• Sedation and difficulty breathing
• Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
• Effect on driving and concentration
• Harm to babies
• Interactions with other medications
• Use with caution in people with depression