Male breast growth caused by Invega (paliperidone) has been alleged across the country, from young boys or their parents claiming the medication had caused them to develop gynecomastia. These patients alleged their male breast growth caused by Invega stemmed from the drug’s treatment mechanism, which causes prolactin levels to drastically increase.

It is important to note that Invega is not approved by the FDA to treat young children, due to severe side effects reported in conjunction with pediatric use. One of these side effects is hyperprolactinemia, which is when prolactin levels are significantly increased and causes breast tissue to swell and lactate in some cases.

This side effect can lead to gynecomastia (male breast growth) in males, and unexpected glactorrhea (milk production) in females. Male breast growth caused by Invega has been reported numerous times, each of which have been allegedly caused by how the drug is metabolized.

When Invega is processed through the body, the drug affects how dopamine interacts with the pituitary gland and triggers unusual reactions. The pituitary gland is one of the primary hormone hubs of the body, which includes prolactin production and other important hormones related to puberty.

Prolactin is the hormone primarily responsible for breast development in young girls, and is naturally produced in small amounts in young boys. However, male breast growth caused by Invega has been alleged because the drug causes a significant increase in prolactin production, enough to cause breast growth in males.

Overview of Invega Male Breast Growth Allegations

Invega is popularly used to treat psychotic conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but is commonly prescribed for off label treatment purposes in young patients including attention deficit disorder, Tourette syndrome, disruptive behavior disorder, and other conditions. Invega was approved by the FDA in December 2006, and is a close relative to Risperdal (risperidone).

Invega is very similar to Risperdal in treatment and side effects, as its predecessor has also been linked to numerous cases of unwanted male breast growth. Invega is a metabolite of Risperdal, which means it is the core ingredient remaining after the liver breaks down the medication.

These medications work by balancing the dopamine levels, the brain chemical responsible for pleasure and rewards, to produce more stable moods. This makes Invega an effective choice for adult patients suffering from psychotic conditions, as well as an understandable alternative option for certain pediatric options.

While it is not illegal for doctors to prescribe a medication for off label purposes, it is illegal for pharmaceutical companies to advertise them for such purposes. This is what Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, allegedly did with Risperdal by marketing the drug for use in younger patients.

The pharmaceutical giants allegedly knew about the devastating side effects for years, but did not provide adequate warnings patients claim. Johnson & Johnson is facing numerous product liability claims, alleging male breast growth caused by Invega and Risperdal.

As of September 2012, over 130 Risperdal and Invega lawsuits have been filed against the pharmaceuticals giant. Many patients who allegedly developed either Risperdal or Invega male breast growth, are often forced to undergo surgery to remove excess breast tissue and counseling to treat emotional trauma.

Patients who suffer from male breast growth caused by Invega or Risperdal may be able to file legal action against the manufacturing company. Potential claimants should contact a lawyer to determine eligibility for a Risperdal or Invega lawsuit.