Male breast growth caused by Risperdal has instigated product liability lawsuits because of devastating reported side effects of the drug. Risperdal lawsuits have been filed by these parents of these young boys and by men maintaining that they experienced the growth of breast tissue from the use of this antipsychotic drug.

Side effects suffered from taking Risperdal reportedly include male breast growth, man boobs, gynecomastia, painful breasts, nipple pain and nipple discharge.

Risperdal, also known as risperidone, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2006 to treat individuals suffering from conditions such as bipolar disorder and autism.

At the time of its approval by the FDA, side effects such as male breast growth caused by Risperdal had been not well known. Recently, however, these side effects are being reported and hundreds of lawsuits have been filed alleging these adverse side effects.

The adverse side effect of male breast growth caused by Risperdal is clinically known as gynecomastia and may also be known commonly as “man boobs.” It is an embarrassing condition suffered by young boys or males and may also need a surgical procedure to correct.

Additionally, gynecomastia may also cause pain. Those who have suffered from male breast growth caused by Risperdal can pursue compensation sought through Risperdal lawsuits. As a victim of male breast growth caused by Risperdal, victims may pursue compensation for psychological trauma, pain and suffering and medical expenses.

Male Breast Growth Caused by Risperdal Facts

The occurrence of male breast growth caused by Risperdal may result from Risperdal’s increase in the prolactin hormone; a hormone which stimulates the breast development in women.

Therefore, boys who experience increased levels of prolactin may experience the development of breast growth, in addition to their breasts being painful, nipple discharge and nipple pain.

The occurrence of nipple discharge is also known as lactation.

A 2006 study published by the Journal of Psychopharmacology supports the allegations that Risperdal dramatically increases the levels of the prolactin hormone, causing males to have an increased breast growth.

According to the study, “Risperidone administered to adolescents at doses commonly used for the treatment of psychotic symptoms can strongly increase prolactin levels, with clinical consequences such as gynecomastia and/or galactorrhea. Given that the long-term effects of antipsychotic drug-induced hyperprolactinemia are not well documented, especially regarding osteopenia, infertility, growth, and pubertal delay, risperidone should be administered with caution to children and adolescents.”

Johnson & Johnson has faced numerous Risperdal lawsuits alleging that patient consumers have had a dramatic increase in reports of breast growth. Particularly, one lawsuit filed by a man from Alabama had alleged that his taking Risperdal and caused his breasts to grow to a 46DD, since taking Risperdal as a child to treat his autism.