Doctors warn those taking a popular antipsychotic drug to watch out for Invega dangers.

Dopamine is a chemical produced in the body to control movement, emotions and self-control. Invega binds to the dopamine receptors in the front of the brain to treat schizophrenia, hallucinations and psychosis.

Sometimes, Invega is used as a treatment for severe cases of depression or for bipolar disorder.

Invega is the Johnson & Johnson brand name of generic paliperidone.

Invega Dangers to the Elderly

Invega should not be prescribed to treat psychotic conditions related to dementia because the drug has been linked to possible heart failure, rapid heart rate, sudden death or pneumonia in these older adults.

Invega can cause increased sensitivity to temperature changes, especially to very hot or cold surroundings. Drinking more water than usual while taking Invega is necessary because it is easier to become dehydrated and overheated.

Invega and Man Boobs

Invega dangers include man boobs, a condition clinically known as gynecomastia.

Invega works by blocking dopamine receptors, so it also blocks dopamine’s action on the pituitary gland. This can result in an increase in prolactin, the hormone that controls sex drive in males and enables lactation (breast milk production) in females.

When prolactin levels reach abnormally high levels in men and boys, the result is man boobs.

Invega Danger of Pituitary Tumors

When Invega causes the pituitary gland to generate more prolactin, it also causes the gland itself to enlarge. When the production of other hormones is off balance because of this growth, pituitary tumors can become another Invega danger.

Anyone on Invega who experiences vision issues, internal bleeding, headaches or convulsions should see a doctor and undergo an examination for a pituitary tumor.

Invega Dangers Include Diabetes, Movement Issues

Doctors have long recognized a link between schizophrenia and type-2 diabetes.

Research shows Invega dangers include an association with elevated blood sugar levels and a higher rate of type-2 diabetes. Weight gain is another side effect of Invega, and weight gain itself can lead to a greater risk of diabetes.

Invega dangers include movement disorders.

At least two movement disorders have been connected to Invega use. Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) is a loss of control over one’s movements, and tardive dyskinesia is the onset of involuntary, repetitive movements. Both of these motor skill issues are linked with Invega.

These aberrations in movement can resemble Parkinson’s disease.

Any loss of motion while on Invega should be reported to a doctor because left unattended, the problem can become irreversible. Depending upon the individual patient’s situation, Invega therapy may or may not be discontinued.

All patients need to be aware of these Invega dangers. If you or someone you know has taken Invega and suffered from its effects, you could benefit from a class action lawsuit to receive compensation.