WARNING

Taking Perseris, like any medication, comes with potential risks and side effects. It’s important to weigh the benefits of the medication in treating the underlying condition (schizophrenia) against the potential risks. Here’s a brief overview of some risks associated with Perseris:

• Common Side Effects: Perseris may cause common side effects such as injection site reactions, weight gain, sedation, and parkinsonism (tremors, stiffness, slowed movement).
• Metabolic Changes: Antipsychotic medications, including Perseris, may lead to metabolic changes, including an increased risk of diabetes and changes in lipid levels (cholesterol and triglycerides).
• Prolactin Elevation: Perseris may cause an increase in prolactin levels, leading to side effects such as breast enlargement and lactation.
• QT Prolongation: Risperidone, the active ingredient in Perseris, may lead to QT interval prolongation, affecting the heart’s rhythm.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): While rare, NMS is a serious condition associated with antipsychotic medications and is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.
• Risk of Overheating: Perseris has been associated with increased body temperature (hyperthermia). Precautions should be taken to avoid situations that may lead to overheating.
• Sedation and Impaired Alertness: Perseris can cause sedation and impaired alertness. Activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving, should be approached with caution.
• Drug Interactions: Perseris may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abrupt discontinuation of Perseris may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Any changes to the treatment plan should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your medical history, existing conditions, and any concerns you may have. Your healthcare provider will consider these factors when prescribing medications and will monitor you for potential side effects. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while taking Perseris, seek medical attention promptly. This information is a general overview, and individual responses to medication can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and attend regular check-ups to discuss your treatment plan.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Perseris is prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by disturbances in thinking, emotions, and behavior. Risperidone, the active ingredient in Perseris, is an antipsychotic medication that works by affecting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin, to help alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia.

Common symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and impaired social and occupational functioning. Perseris is formulated as an extended-release injectable suspension, providing a slow and steady release of risperidone over an extended period, typically once a month. This can be beneficial for individuals who may have difficulty adhering to a daily oral medication regimen.

How should this medicine be used?

Perseris is an extended-release injectable suspension of the antipsychotic medication risperidone, and its use involves administration as a monthly injection. Here are general guidelines on how Perseris should be used:

• Administration by Healthcare Professional: Perseris should be administered by a healthcare professional, typically in a healthcare setting. This ensures proper handling and administration of the medication.
• Dosage Determination: The dosage of Perseris is determined by the prescribing healthcare provider based on individual patient factors, including the severity of the condition and the patient’s response to treatment.
• Injection Site: Perseris is usually injected into the deltoid muscle of the arm or the gluteal muscle of the buttocks. The healthcare provider will choose the appropriate site for injection.
• Frequency of Administration: Perseris is administered once every four weeks (monthly). This extended-release formulation is designed to provide a slow and sustained release of risperidone over the course of a month.
• Preparation of the Injection: The medication comes as a pre-filled syringe. Healthcare professionals are responsible for preparing and administering the injection using proper aseptic technique.
• Patient Monitoring: Patients receiving Perseris should be regularly monitored for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects. Monitoring may include assessments for extrapyramidal symptoms, metabolic changes, and other potential side effects associated with antipsychotic medications.
• Follow-up Appointments: Patients are typically scheduled for regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare providers to assess treatment progress, address any concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
• Patient Education: Patients should receive education about the importance of adhering to the prescribed injection schedule and reporting any unusual or concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.

It’s crucial for individuals prescribed Perseris to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions closely and attend all scheduled appointments. Any questions or concerns about the medication, its administration, or potential side effects should be discussed with the prescribing healthcare professional. This information serves as a general guideline, and specific details may vary based on individual patient circumstances and healthcare provider preferences.

Other uses for this medicine

Perseris is specifically indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia. It is not approved for other uses. Using it for conditions other than schizophrenia should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Perseris, it’s essential to follow the advice and instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Here are some general precautions associated with the use of Perseris:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies to risperidone or other antipsychotic medications.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, especially cardiovascular diseases, seizures, diabetes, or any other significant health issues.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, that you are currently taking. Some medications may interact with Perseris, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Perseris with your healthcare provider. The safety of Perseris during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered.
• Elderly Patients: Special caution may be needed when prescribing antipsychotic medications to elderly individuals, as they may be more sensitive to certain side effects.
• Heat Exposure: There have been reports of increased body temperature (hyperthermia) with antipsychotic medications, including Perseris. It is advisable to avoid overheating and dehydration, especially in hot weather.
• Motor Impairment: Perseris may impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. It’s important to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until the effects of the medication are known.
• Blood Sugar Monitoring: Antipsychotic medications, including risperidone, may be associated with an increased risk of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels may be recommended.

Always take Perseris exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about the medication or its potential side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. This information is general in nature, and specific precautions may vary based on individual health factors and the guidance of healthcare professionals.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Perseris. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, especially if you have conditions such as diabetes, which may require careful management of dietary choices.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Perseris, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. It’s important not to double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Your healthcare provider may provide instructions on when and how to resume your regular dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Perseris, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. Additionally, the benefits of the medication in treating the underlying condition should be carefully considered along with the potential risks of side effects. If you are prescribed Perseris, your healthcare provider will monitor you for side effects and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Common side effects of Perseris may include:

• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site are common.
• Weight Gain: Some individuals may experience weight gain while taking antipsychotic medications.
• Sedation or Drowsiness: Perseris can cause drowsiness or sedation. It’s important to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Parkinsonism: This refers to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement, which can be side effects of antipsychotic medications.
• Dyslipidemia: Changes in lipid levels (cholesterol and triglycerides) may occur.
• Increased Prolactin Levels: Risperidone, the active ingredient in Perseris, can lead to increased levels of the hormone prolactin, which may cause side effects such as breast enlargement and lactation.
• Metabolic Changes: Antipsychotic medications, including risperidone, may be associated with metabolic changes, such as changes in blood sugar levels and an increased risk of diabetes.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): While rare, NMS is a serious condition associated with antipsychotic medications and is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.
• QT Prolongation: Risperidone, like some other antipsychotics, may lead to QT interval prolongation, which can affect the heart’s rhythm.

It’s crucial to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, as well as all medications and supplements you are taking, to help minimize the risk of potential drug interactions.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual responses to medication can vary. If you have specific concerns about Perseris or its side effects, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Perseris:

• Storage:
  • Store Perseris at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep the medication away from direct light and moisture.
  • Do not freeze Perseris.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired Perseris in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. Instead, use a drug take-back program or follow guidelines for proper disposal in household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States) or your local emergency services immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, unconsciousness, seizures, and potentially severe changes in heart rhythm. Provide the emergency responders or healthcare professionals with as much information as possible, including the name of the medication, dosage, and the time it was taken.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Always take Perseris exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter your dosage without consulting them.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Perseris, as it can enhance the sedative effects of the medication.
• Medical and Dental Procedures: Inform healthcare providers, including dentists, about your use of Perseris before undergoing any medical or dental procedures.
• Informing Healthcare Providers: Inform any healthcare provider treating you that you are taking Perseris. This includes emergency medical personnel, specialists, and dentists.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Perseris with your healthcare provider.
• Blood Sugar Monitoring: If you have diabetes or are at risk of diabetes, your healthcare provider may monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
• Heat Exposure: Avoid situations that may lead to overheating, as Perseris has been associated with increased body temperature.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have specific questions or concerns about Perseris. They can provide personalized information based on your medical history and individual needs.