Atypical antipsychotic

Risperdal (risperidone) Withdrawal

Risperdal (risperidone) has a moderate discontinuation profile. The relatively short half-life of the parent drug and shorter overall washout means rebound effects can emerge more quickly than with longer-acting agents like Abilify or Vraylar.

By Dr. Ben Soffer, DO — board-certified physician, at-home ketamine therapy in Florida and New Jersey.

Half-life

~3 hours for risperidone; ~20 hours for active metabolite (paliperidone).

Withdrawal timeline

Onset— 2-5 days after stopping

Symptoms can emerge within a week.

Peak— Week 1-2

Rebound effects and any returning symptoms peak in the first 2 weeks.

Resolution— 2-4 weeks acute; relapse risk extends longer

Acute symptoms resolve over weeks; relapse is separate.

Common symptoms

  • Rebound insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Return of underlying condition

Less common

  • Headache
  • Withdrawal dyskinesia (rare)
  • Hyperprolactinemia symptom changes

Tapering guidance

  • A typical taper reduces by 0.5-1 mg every 1-2 weeks.
  • For psychotic disorders, coordinate the taper carefully with the prescribing psychiatrist.
  • Coordinate any taper with the prescribing physician.

Where ketamine therapy fits

Risperdal is compatible with at-home ketamine therapy. Continue Risperdal as prescribed during ketamine treatment unless the prescribing psychiatrist advises otherwise.

Check ketamine therapy eligibilityMedication safety with ketamine

Frequently asked questions

How long does Risperdal withdrawal last?

Acute symptoms typically peak in the first 2 weeks and resolve over 2-4 weeks. Relapse risk extends longer.

Important: This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice or a recommendation to start, stop, or change any medication. Tapering psychiatric medications should always be coordinated with the prescribing physician. Compounded ketamine for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain is not FDA approved.

Browse all medication withdrawal guides.