Rykindo (Risperidone) for Depression

Overview
Rykindo is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults and for the maintenance treatment of bipolar 1 disorder, either as monotherapy or as an adjunct to lithium or valproate. It is used when long-acting injectable treatment is appropriate, such as for individuals who have difficulty maintaining a daily medication routine. Rykindo is also known by its drug name, risperidone.

Rykindo is an atypical antipsychotic. Scientists believe it works by balancing the activity of dopamine and serotonin, two brain chemicals involved in mood, behavior, and perception. This helps reduce symptoms like hallucinations and delusions in schizophrenia and supports long-term mood stability in bipolar 1 disorder.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Rykindo is given as an extended-release intramuscular (IM) injection into the gluteal muscle by a healthcare provider every two weeks. 

Before starting Rykindo, a person must first establish tolerability with oral risperidone. The recommended dosing schedule is typically once every every two weeks. A prescribing doctor may change dosing size with time, depending on how a person responds. The first injection should be given along with seven days of oral risperidone. Rykindo should be administered exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Rykindo in people with schizophrenia include headache, parkinsonism (muscle stiffness and slow movement), dizziness, akathisia (restlessness), fatigue, constipation, indigestion (dyspepsia), sedation, weight gain, pain in the arms or legs, and dry mouth. In people treated for bipolar 1 disorder, common side effects include weight gain (monotherapy) and tremor and parkinsonism (when used with lithium or valproate).

Rare but serious side effects may include neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a dangerous reaction with high fever and muscle rigidity), tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements that may become permanent), seizures, orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing), and increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in high-risk individuals. Other serious risks include metabolic changes such as hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), dyslipidemia (unhealthy cholesterol changes), and weight gain.

Additional rare side effects may include elevated prolactin levels, which can reduce bone density, low white blood cell counts, priapism (a prolonged and painful erection that may require medical intervention), and cognitive or motor impairment that may affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.

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Label: Rykindo Extended — Release Microspheres — Risperidone Kit — DailyMed