My son with classic autism began taking risperidone a year ago for severe meltdowns where he was hurting himself and other people. Since getting the dose right he has had no meltdowns.
My daughter was taking risperidone and sodium valporate, for bi polar and she was so calm , she told me she would feel annoyed but couldnt be bothered doing anything. WHat I saw with her was a much calmer happier person. They then decided to change her diagnosis to Borderline Personality disorder, and withdrew all her medications, which left her in some very dark places. Now she is doing much better though.
I think medication can do very well for people if its well managed and the doses are right. I do understand however that people don't like to take medications long term in case of long term affects.
I do think this could be monitored though through medical managements and regular check ups and blood tests is applicable