Invega (paliperidone) is one of the country’s most popular antipyschotics, treating adults and children with extreme mental disorders.

However a number of patients have reported serious Invega adverse side effects soon after taking the medication, with young male patients reportedly developing man boobs.

Gynecomastia, or male breast growth, has become infamously associated with Invega and its cousin, Risperdal (risperidone), after male patients began experiencing this complication soon after starting the medication.

The FDA approved Invega in the early 2000s as a treatment option for patients with extreme mental illness like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, as well as some forms of autism. Invega works by leveling the serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, which produces sufficient chemical balance.

However, because the drug directly blocks dopamine, there are a number of serious Invega adverse side effects. As a natural side effect of Invega’s dopamine blocking mechanism, the body produces much higher levels of prolactin than is typical.

Prolactin is produced in the pituitary gland and is the hormone primarily responsible for breast growth in young women. It is naturally produced in small amounts in men.

Invega causes the prolactin production to increase significantly, potentially resulting in male breast growth or abnormal lactation.

Young men have reportedly developed breasts as large as D-cups, as well as experiencing nipple discharge and pain. Oftentimes surgery is required to remove the excess breast tissue, leaving the young boys both physically and mentally scarred from their gynecomastia experience.

As serious as this condition is, patients should educate themselves on the other serious Invega adverse side effects they could possibly experience.

Overview of Invega Adverse Side Effects

Pituitary tumors are another serious complication associated with increased prolactin levels as it may cause the gland to grow.

This results in other hormones being disrupted and may lead to other tumors growing in the infected area. While most of these tumors are usually benign, they could led to other health problems including vision problems, internal bleeding, headaches and convulsions.

An increased risk of developing type-2 diabetes is also possible with Invega, because of the possibility of raised blood sugar levels. Other serious Invega adverse side effects include:

• Abnormal Movements
• Abdominal pain
• Akathisia (Restlessness)
• Anxiety
• Cardiac Death (Higher Risk in Elderly Patients)
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Weight Gain

Patients who have experienced gynecomastia or any other serious Invega adverse side effects should consult their doctors immediately.

Even though many of these side effects could impose serious health concerns for patients, manufacturing company Johnson & Johnson allegedly omitted a number of them to protect the drug’s market value.

Patients who may have suffered Invega adverse side effects should contact a specialized lawyer to determine if they are eligible to file an Invega lawsuit.