Risperdal
Risperdal® has been linked to young male breast tissue enlargements, known as gynecomastia. This is an emotionally damaging condition that can lead to boys needing their breasts to be removed.
What is Risperdal?
Risperdal is an antipsychotic drug, initially used for the treatment of adult schizophrenia in 1993, but has now been approved to treat schizophrenia in children and teens, as well as bipolar disorder and autism in both children and adults.
Risperdal works by focusing on balancing chemicals in the brain, as individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are likely to have increased serotonin and dopamine levels. Risperdal reduces and balances these chemicals, which can minimize the effects of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The drug is available in different strengths and can be taken orally in both a pill and liquid form, or can be administered through injection.
Side Effects
Despite Risperdal’s ability to treat multiple disorders, it also has some harmful side effects. Common side effects include fatigue, restlessness, drooling, nausea, anxiety and more. However, the most harmful side effect has been found in young males. Many males who have taken Risperdal have developed Gynecomastia, or the development of breast tissue. This has been linked to the Risperdal ingredient prolactin.
Because of this harmful side effect, many lawsuits have been filed against the makers of Risperdal. To date, the manufacturer has paid well over $5 billion in fines and settlements for failing to warn doctors and patients of the side effect.
If you’ve developed Gynecomastia due to taking Risperdal, you may be entitled to compensation. To see if you’re qualified, fill out our free case evaluation below.