Risperdal is a popular antipsychotic drug used to treat patients with schizophrenia, autism, and bipolar disorder.

According to the National Alliance on Medical Wellness, Risperdal (generically known as risperidone), works by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

The medication affects dopamine and serotonin production. Neurotransmitters are chemicals stored in the nerve cells that help to transmit messages in the brain. Risperdal helps to rebalance the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain which improves a person’s thinking, mood, and behavior.

Unfortunately several adolescents have reported experiencing gynecomastia after taking Risperdal for extended periods of time. Gynecomastia is a condition commonly known as abnormal male breast growth. It is marked by the enlargement of the glandular tissue in the male breast.

It is different from fat deposits found in the breast area of overweight and obese men. Gynecomastia often results from a hormonal imbalance in the body, generally an excess of estrogen.

According to MedicineNet.com gynecomastia is diagnosed when a male has breast tissue greater than .5 cm in diameter. It is diagnosed by the presence of actual glandular tissue surrounding the nipple, not just fat deposits in the breast area.

Gynecomastia treatment often includes stopping any medications that are causing the breast growth. (Note: Medications should not be stopped without the advice of a medical professional).

Treatment for Risperdal Gynecomastia

Currently there is no FDA approved treatment for gynecomastia, although some drugs do exists. Generally these medications must be taken early in order to be and effective treatment option, since scar tissue begins to develop after 12 months. This causes the existing medications to be ineffective.

Medications that have been used in gynecomastia treatment include testosterone replacement, clomiphene, danazol, and several others. In some serious cases, gynecomastia treatment requires the patient to undergo surgery to have the breast tissue removed.

Risperdal Lawsuits

Johnson & Johnson has lost several Risperdal lawsuits claiming the pharmaceutical giant violated federal regulations and improperly marketed the medication. In November of 2013 the J&J had to pay 2.2 billion dollars to settle allegations brought by the United States Department of Justice.

Product liability attorneys are currently looking for potential plaintiffs to bring Risperdal lawsuits against pharmaceutical manufacturer Johnson & Johnson. Lawsuits filed against Johnson & Johnson claim that taking Risperdal has caused patients to develop male breasts and undergo painful and expensive gynecomastia treatment.