Risperdal, a medication designed to treat several mood and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism is linked to gynecomastia—the development of breast tissue—in young males. This condition typically doesn’t go away on its own and often requires surgery to correct.
Johnson & Johnson began marketing the drug to doctors to use off-label on children and adolescents in 2004. Unfortunately, the drug can severely impact the hormones of young males who use it. A study found that three out of 10 adolescent males who took Risperdal developed gynecomastia.
Other side effects of the medication include:
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Nosebleeds
- Restless muscle movements throughout the facial region
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Weight gain
To date, Risperdal hasn’t been recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and children and adolescents are still being harmed by it. In early 2015, Johnson & Johnson lost in court over Risperdal’s link to gynecomastia after settling out of court for a similar case in 2013.
At Ferrer Poirot Feller Daniel, we know how devastating it can be for young males to develop this condition. Treatment can be expensive and risky, as it involves surgical removal of breast tissue. If you or your child were harmed by Risperdal, we want to help. Contact our drug injury lawyers today for a free consultation.