Invega (paliperidone) is a commonly used antipsychotic drug approved to treat symptoms associated with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

In addition to its approved uses, Invega is also used in an “off label” fashion for a variety of other conditions. These include anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD and autism.

While many patients and families are pleased to see the progress associated with the use of Invega, many are not aware of the Invega and gynecomastia link.

Gynecomastia in Males

Gynecomastia in males refers to the development of breast tissue. In common language, this is known as “man boobs” and refers to an abnormally large amount of breast tissue for men.

In males, there are three times in the life cycle where gynecomastia may be present.  In infants, the mother’s estrogen may cause male newborns to have increased breast tissue, but this condition usually goes away within two to three weeks after being born.

Having man boobs during adolescence is also not uncommon.  With hormonal changes during puberty, male breast growth may be triggered and usually will resolve on its own without treatment after a period of six months to two years.

In men, 25% can be affected during ages 50-80.   This is due to the natural decline of testosterone as men age, and some are just more susceptible to the condition.

For others who suffer the condition, it can be brought on by Invega or Risperdal.

Invega and Gynecomastia Development

It is believed that Invega works by altering the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. It also affects the levels of a hormone called prolactin, which is responsible for the development of breast tissue and for lactation.

Males typically do have some levels of prolactin in their bodies, but the levels are much lower than those in women, especially in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Elevated prolactin levels in males can lead to the development of breasts, breast pain, nipple pain, nipple discharge and even lactation.

Not only do males experience the physical changes to the breast growth and possible lactation induced by increased prolactin levels, they are also affected psychologically by this condition.

Males may be ridiculed, teased, bullied and ostracized based on their appearance. While older males may have an easier time accepting that their male breast growth is due to the side effects of the medication, younger males may have a harder time separating their feelings from this fact.

Young boys, teens and young men are still physically developing and are also developing their sexual and gender self concepts. When their physical self does not match up with the gender and sexual identities that they have started to form, this can be devastating.

Boys and young men may develop severe depression and suicidal thoughts as a result of the Invega and male breast growth.

Filing an Invega Adverse Effects Lawsuit

Plaintiffs filing product liability lawsuits against drug manufacturers often allege that the manufacturer failed to adequately warn patients, doctors and the public of any potentially severe adverse effects associated with the drug.

Patients and their loved ones may consider filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer for development of Invega adverse effects such as gynecomastia. A specialized attorney can review your case at no charge and can help guide you in your legal options.