AboutDr Alan Galbraith Expertise I can answer most questions on most drugs. Answers can be given in either technical or layperson terminology. My main areas of interest are psychiatric, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs.
Experience I have been a university lecturer/head of department for almost thirty years, but am now retired. My research interests were alcohol, smoking and cardiovascular disease.
Organizations Institute of Biology, London.
Publications Author of "Fundamentals of Pharmacology" 5th Edition published in November 2007 by Pearson Education, Australia.
Question Hello
My 4 year old son has been prescribed Risperdal to help with his ADHD and PDD/autism symptoms. Can you tell me about Tardive Dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignancy side effects; how commonly do they occur and what should I watch for?
Thank You
Answer Dear Kerry
Tardive dyskinesia with Risperdal is not common when compared to the older similar drugs. Things to look out for are abnormal movements of the limbs. Abnormal tongue and lip movements are also indicative. Tardive dyskinesia develops after long-term treatment.
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is manifest by fever and possible convulsions. Muscle rigidity and slow breathing can also occur. Immediate advice and treatment is a necessity. This is relatively rare and tends to occur early in the treatment.
