Risperdal (risperidone) is produced by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, owned by Johnson & Johnson.

It’s an atypical antipsychotic medication designed to treat a variety of conditions including autism, bipolar disorder, dementia, schizophrenia, and Tourette’s Syndrome.

However, Risperdal has been associated with a series of side effects, ranging from mild to moderate to severe.

Among these reported Risperdal side effects is gynecomastia in boys, which is the abnormal enlargement of breast tissue.

Gynecomastia in Boys

It has been alleged that Risperdal may increase levels of prolactin, a hormone which stimulates breast development in women.

Young boys who have taken Risperdal may have increased levels of this hormone which can manifest as male breasts, the growth of which is scientifically referred to as gynecomastia. Boys who have developed gynecomastia may experience pain or nipple discharge.

Scientific research supports claims that Risperdal may cause gynecomastia in boys. A study published in a 2006 issue of the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology indicated that risperidone, which is the generic of Risperdal, “administered to adolescents at doses commonly used for the treatment of psychotic symptoms can strongly increase prolactin levels, with clinical consequences such as gynecomastia.”

The study also indicated that because the long-term effects of Risperdal are not well-documented with particular regard to growth and a delay in puberty, the drug should be prescribed with caution to children and adolescents.

Symptoms of Gynecomastia

It is believed that Risperdal’s impact on the levels of prolactin in users can cause young boys, and even adult men, to develop breasts and begin producing milk, which can be especially devastating.

Gynecomastia symptoms may not affect both breasts evenly and may affect just one breast, leaving the sufferer with uneven breasts. The condition is permanent and painful; it will not disappear without medical treatment.

Symptoms of Risperdal gynecomastia in boys may include:

• Tenderness in one or both breasts
• Swelling of breast tissue
• Nipple discharge

In addition, symptoms of gynecomastia can cause severe emotional trauma in young males.

Filing a Risperdal Lawsuit

Risperdal has spawned many lawsuits in which gynecomastia in boys was cited as a Risperdal side effect.

Research has also linked Risperdal to gynecomastia, and the the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued several warnings related to the side effects of Risperdal, including gynecomastia in boys, emphasizing the dangers it may pose to users.

Young boys who have developed breasts as result of Risperdal use can suffer from severe psychological trauma. As a result, many doctors have reportedly recommended that adolescent males who suffer from gynecomastia undergo surgery.

Mild cases of gynecomastia in boys can be resolved with liposuction, while more severe cases will require a mastectomy.

If you or a loved one has used Risperdal and suffered from gynecomastia, you may have legal recourse to collect compensation for surgical expenses, hospital bills, mental anguish and other damages.

For more information, please contact an experienced Risperdal attorney for a free consultation.  There is no cost or obligation to have your case reviewed.