Invega (paliperidone) is an antipsychotic medication used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

Additionally, it has been used “off label” for other uses, such as to treat symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression and sleep difficulties.

Typically, Invega is taken as an oral medication, but it is also available as an injectable medication and is known as Invega Sustenna.

As with any medication, Invega injection complications are a possibility with the use of the drug.

Invega Injection Complications

Before receiving an Invega injection, it is recommended that patients are first tested for tolerability by taking the oral equivalent of Invega.

If patients can tolerate the medication orally, Invega injections may proceed in a carefully established schedule, being careful not to exceed the maximum monthly dose.

Injectable Invega is typically used for more severe patients experiencing psychotic symptoms and in patients who, for one reason or another, are not taking or are not tolerating the oral medication.

Invega injection complications are particularly concerning for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis. However, patients of any age may experience Invega injection complications.

The complications associated with Invega injections can range from cerebrovascular adverse reactions including strokes, transient ischemic attacks, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, abnormal heart rhythm known as QT prolongation, tardive dyskinesia, metabolic changes and even death.

Other Invega injection complications include orthostatic hypotension and fainting, neutropenia (low white blood cell count), hyperprolactinemia, cognitive and motor impairment, seizures, dysphasia, priapism (persistent erection) and body temperature dysregulation.

Hyperprolactinemia in Males

Of particular concern to males, hyperprolactinemia as one of the Invega injection complications seems to be an issue that is not given enough attention, based on those who have experienced complications from the side effect.

Hyperprolactinemia refers to elevated prolactin levels in a person’s body. Prolactin is a hormone that is present in both males and females, however, males have much lower concentrations of this hormone naturally.

Prolactin is responsible for the development of breast tissue and for lactation. It is seen in the largest amounts during a woman’s pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Males who have hyperprolactinemia may go on to develop breast tissue of their own, known as gynecomastia. In more colloquial terms, this condition is known as “man boobs.”

Some males who have taken Invega have gone on to develop very large breasts and have had to have them surgically removed.

In addition to the potential for developing large breasts, males may also experience nipple and breast pain, nipple discharge and may even begin lactating do to the high levels of prolactin stimulated from Invega use.

As one can imagine, males who develop breasts and/or begin lactating can be very disturbed and distressed by these conditions.

Not only do they have to endure the physical ramifications of hyperprolactinemia, they are also left to face the emotional and social stigma associated with having breasts as a male.

Invega Injection Complications Lawsuit Information

If you or a loved one has developed hyperprolactinemia and the resultant large breasts and or lactation as a result of the elevated hormone levels prompted by Invega use, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer.

An attorney can review your case at no charge and can help you decide if filing an Invega lawsuit is the right choice for you.