Ask a doctor on the topic of Neurology

Side effects of medications

August 10, 2017 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

My husband has been experiencing significant difficulties when getting up and especially when eating since being discharged from the psychiatric clinic. He is taking Seroquel, Rivotril, and Risperidone. Since his discharge, his movements, particularly swallowing, have been very difficult, except for walking, which still works relatively well. I have read about the side effects of the medication Risperidone and it states that "it often" leads to Parkinson's symptoms, including swallowing difficulties, stiffness, etc. What can you tell me about this observation?

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good day,

It is very likely that Risperidone is to blame for this symptomatology, especially since it did not exist before. It is annoying that a change was not made in the clinic. This should indeed be done. Simply stopping the medication is not an option, as the psychiatric symptoms may then reappear.
Please discuss the change with your treating psychiatrist.
Wishing you both all the best!

Sincerely, Dr. Gehring