The attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault are investigating potential lawsuits on behalf of young males who have apparently developed male breast tissue due to their use of the antipsychotic drug, Risperdal. The use of this drug has been linked to a condition called: Gynecomastia (enlargement of male breast tissue) which has been seen in young boys who have used this drug. To date, more than 420 lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturer, Johnson & Johnson.

Did you or anyone you know experience complications such as development of male breast tissue? Find out if you can seek compensation for your injuries by completing our free case evaluation.

It has been assumed that the manufacturers, Johnson & Johnson failed to provide adequate warnings about this risk and failed to properly research the side effects of disfigurement in young men. As a result, these young men may suffer from psychological trauma and have to undergo surgeries such as liposuction or mastectomies to remove breasts.

What is Risperdal?
It is an antipsychotic medication which works by changing the effects of chemicals in the brain. It is used to treat schizophrenia and symptoms of bipolar disorder (manic depression). It is also used in autistic children to treat symptoms of irritability. It is not intended for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Risperdal can also be used for off-label use. It has been alleged that the drug may increase levels of prolactin, which is a hormone that stimulates breast development in women.

Since its FDA approval in 1993, a number of studies have pointed to a link between the use of Risperdal and male breast development. For instance, the study that was published in 2006 in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, stated that Risperidone (generic for Risperdal) administered to adolescents, at doses commonly used for the treatment of psychotic symptoms, can strongly increase prolactin levels. The study further indicated that because the long-term effects of said drug are not well documented with precise regard to growth and delay in puberty, the drug should be prescribed with caution to children and adolescents.

Risperdal has been linked to many serious side effects:

• Gynecomastia (growth of male breasts, which can be painful or tender)
• Galactorrhea (production of milk from breasts)
• Diabetes, High blood pressure
• Bone loss
• Sexual dysfunction
• Pituitary tumors
• Weight Gain, which may be severe
• Heart problems, heart attacks or irregular heart rhythm
• Suicide
• Pancreatitis
• Increased risk of death in elderly people with dementia
• NMS (neuroleptic malignant syndrome)

If you or anyone you know has taken Risperdal and have been affected by the drug, you may be entitled to compensation. The Risperdal Attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault are dedicated to ensuring pharmaceutical companies are held responsible for the dangerous side effects of their products.  Call our Risperdal Attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault  or fill out the free case evaluation. We want to help you.