Risperdal (risperidone) is an antipsychotic drug made by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a division of Johnson & Johnson. Physicians use Risperdal to treat conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Risperdal works by affecting the biochemistry of the brain, particularly affecting neurotransmitters. Serotonin and dopamine are two of the main neurotransmitters affected by Risperdal use, and these brain chemicals are known to regulate mood and behavior.

Risperdal balances dopamine and serotonin so the chemicals are able to enhance thinking, improve mood and manage behavior.

Risperdal Side Effects

As with any pharmaceutical medication, Risperdal is not without risk. While some side effects appear to be mild and wane with continued treatment, others can be devastating and life changing.

Mild side effects of Risperdal use include:

• Feelings of restlessness
• Change in appetite
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Itching or rash
• Anxiety
• Muscle pain or weakness

Other patients taking Risperdal can experience much more than transient side effects. Many of those who suffer most from Risperdal complications are young males.

Risperdal can disrupt the hormones in the body, and can cause an increase in a hormone called prolactin. Prolactin is the hormone that stimulates breast milk production in women. Males also have prolactin, but prolactin does not serve a known function and typically low.

When taking Rispedal, however, prolactin is stimulated in males and a number of conditions can arise from elevated prolactin levels in males. These include:

• Male breast development (gynecomastia) — This condition is also colloquially termed “man boobs.” Breast development can be considerable and can cause pain and embarrassment.
• Painful breasts — Males can develop pain in their breasts in the absence of breast growth or in addition to the condition.
• Milk production (galactorrhea) — Males may begin to produce breast milk due to increased prolactin levels.
• Nipple pain or discharge — Males may experience pain or non-milk discharge from their nipples.

Risperdal Lawsuit Information

Janssen and J&J are facing a considerable number of lawsuits over Risperdal side effects. Additionally, the companies have been faced with allegations from the U.S. government.

The U.S. Department of Justice brought charges against the companies for marketing Risperdal to children, elderly adults and those with developmental disabilities. The companies reached a $2.2 billion Risperdal settlement with the government, but denied any wrongdoing.

If you or a loved one has developed severe side effects from taking Risperdal you may have a legal claim. An experienced Risperdal attorney can review your case at no charge and can help you determine if filing a Risperdal lawsuit is the right choice for you.