Risperdal (Risperidone) is a very popular atypical antipychotic, often prescribed to adults and children with extreme mental disorders.

However there have been numerous reports of Risperdal dangers, including male breast growth and type-2 diabetes developing in young patients.

Most popularly prescribed for adults with schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, and often used to treat schizophrenia and certain forms of autism in children.

Due to the drug’s unique treatment mechanism, Risperdal is vastly popular in the patient population and is a preferred treatment method when other antipsychotics fail.

Manufactured by Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Risperdal was approved by the FDA in the early 1990s.

It is important to note that this drug was originally approved to treat adult patients with extreme mental disorders, but was commonly prescribed for off label purposes to treat children.

It was not until the mid 2000s that Risperdal was approved to treat children, by which point the damage had been done.

While it is not illegal to prescribe medications for off label purposes, it is illegal for manufacturing companies to advertise them for such purposes.

Janssen Pharmaceuticals allegedly conducted illegal Risperdal marketing ads for years, with the company paying billions in fines related to false advertising violations.

The Risperdal dangers the company failed to report or adequately explain include potential male breast growth, or gynecomastia, as well as other permanent conditions like type-2 diabetes or movement disorders.

Examining Potential Risperdal Dangers

Risperdal works by leveling the dopamine and serotonin levels, which is supposed to allow for ideal mood balance.

However this treatment mechanism causes the drug to interact directly with the pituitary gland, which is the body’s primary hormone production center.

Among the Risperdal dangers reported, gynecomastia is probably the most significant as it largely affects younger male patients.

Gynecomastia occurs when the male patient’s body produces much more prolactin levels than needed, resulting in male breast growth.

Prolactin is the primary hormone responsible for breast development in young girls, and is naturally produced in small amounts in young males.

Risperdal naturally causes the body to increase its prolactin levels, resulting in male breast growth and even lactation in some cases.

Oftentimes gynecomastia patients undergo surgery to remove the excess breast tissue, and need psychological counseling to cope with the emotional trauma.

Type-2 diabetes may also be a part of the significant Risperdal dangers, due to patients experiencing significant weight gain while on prescription.

Risperdal patients should frequently see their doctors to monitor their blood sugar levels.

Other Risperdal dangers patients should be wary of include pituitary tumors and movement disorders.

Even though these Risperdal dangers can cause chronic health complications for patients, Janssen Pharmaceuticals allegedly failed to warn the public.

Potential claimants who may have experienced one or more Risperdal dangers, should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility for a Risperdal lawsuit.