Evaluation of Risperidone: A study on selected patients in Peshawar, Pakistan

Abstract

Risperidone is classified as an atypical antipsychotic and is recognized as an effective treatment for psychotic disorders in adults. However, there is limited knowledge regarding its use in young children. This study aimed to assess the safety profile of risperidone in children under five years old who were receiving treatment for behavioral issues linked to various childhood disorders. The study was conducted in a hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. Diagnoses of common childhood disorders, particularly those associated with disruptive behavioral problems, were made using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV). Symptom severity and improvement were measured using the Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) and Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) scales. Informed consent was obtained from the children's parents before initiating risperidone treatment. A total of 10 patients were included in the study, with the following diagnoses: Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (n=3), Global Developmental Delay (n=2), and CP with epilepsy (n=5). Baseline CGI scores ranged from 5 to 6, while endpoint scores were between 1 and 2. Initial assessments, including lipid profiles, fasting blood sugar levels, and electrocardiograms (ECGs), were recorded and compared before and after starting risperidone treatment. The prescribed dose ranged from 0.5 to 2 mg per day. The most common side effects observed were sedation and weight gain in a few patients. No life-threatening adverse effects were reported. Based on the findings, risperidone appears to be well tolerated in children under five years of age over a one-year period, demonstrating improvements in target symptoms .

Keywords: Young Children, Risperidone, Safety, Efficacy.