Risperdal

[Guest guest]

Who has experience with Risperdal? My son's neuropsychologist and neurologist have both suggested this medication. We saw the neurologist this morning and was given a prescription for .25mg twice a day. Now, I personally would like to start out with a 1/2 a dose once a day, lol! Is this the type of medication that is in and out of their system (like a stimulant...so you could skip the weekends), or something they need to take continually. I am worried about weight gain on this as my son was in the 75 percentile at his 8 year check up (and has since been eating a lot....which is not like him). I am also worried about his facial tic, but am told this will help??? What has your experience been with this medication? I do feel more comfortable with the fact it has been approved for autism....just not excited to put my son on an anti-psychotic drug.We have an appointment with a psychiatrist today @ 5:15. He was recommended for med management by my son's ABA therapist. I am not filling any prescription until I consult him, but would not be surprised if he agreed with the Risperdal. A co-worker of mine just took her autistic son to this same psychiatrist and he was put on Risperdal as well.The funny thing is......my son sat perfect through the whole appointment. Here I am, telling the neurologist how we are looking to treat his behavior problems, and he sits perfect, lol! The doctor even made a comment on it. He has been so good all day! He told me yesterday that he is practicing listening for school, lol I didn't even say anything....I will take what I can get. At least he isn't doing to bad with school starting on Monday. He has been dreading this day since August began, lol! We even went to school registration with a positive attitude. One of the teachers asked him if he was excited about starting 3rd grade (to which I just cringed, knowing what would normally come out of his mouth), and he just said, "yeah, I am". This after last weeks vacation! I was sooooo sure about medicating last week, now he is making me feel guilty. I know that most of his behaviors stem from anxiety and not being able to cope in social settings, but still. I have to keep remembering how he acted.....and that it is no wonder he is struggling with his peers at school. I also have to remember how they isolated him at school the entire year last year. I want him to enjoy school, no despise it like he does now. Please don't let me talk my self out of medication again!!!! This is our 3rd try, and each time I give up!!!!Thank for your help!