Invega (paliperidone) is a popular antipsychotic medication used to treat a variety of extreme mental disorders in both adult and pediatric patients. However, the side effects of Invega injections have been called into question, as this medication has been linked to a number severe complications in children.

While this medication also comes in oral form, some patients prefer the injectable variation known as Invega Sustenna. The side effects of Invega injections reported include gynecomastia, or male breast growth, along with extreme weight gain and development of type-2 diabetes.

Before patients receive Invega injections, physicians typically test patient’s tolerance by first prescribing oral Invega. Patients who receive Invega injections are on a strict schedule, which are typically prescribed to patients experiencing more severe psychotic symptoms and who cannot tolerate the oral variation.

Overview of the Side Effects of Invega Injections

While the side effects of Invega injections are a concern for patients in general, pediatric patients may be more susceptible to certain complications due to adolescent hormone fluctuations.

In consequence, hyperprolactinemia, a condition where the body produces high levels of prolactin, has been reported as an Invega injection complication. Prolactin is the primary hormone associated with breast development in young girls, but is also naturally produced in small amounts in young males.

Invega’s treatment mechanism reportedly interacts with the pituitary gland and increases prolactin levels. When hyperprolactinemia occurs in men, they could potentially develop man boobs that may have to be surgically removed.

Along with gynecomastia, severe weight gain and type-2 diabetes are also potential side effects of Invega. The extreme change in metabolism and blood sugar may cause the body to react by developing type-2 diabetes.

Patients who develop this condition will also have to manage diabetic symptoms on top of their psychotic conditions. Patients have also reported movement disorders as side effects of Invega injections, with patients complaining about their coordination. Other side effects of Invega injections include:

• Prolonged Penile Erection
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Sedation
• Restlessness
• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Tremor

Even though the side effects of Invega injections can be potentially dangerous, manufacturing company Johnson & Johnson allegedly failed to warn patients against them.

Invega was approved by the FDA in 2006 to treat psychotic conditions in adult and pediatric patients and works by balancing serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain. Numerous patients have opted to take Invega in the hopes that their psychotic conditions could be treated, but a number of these patients had suffered unexpected complications.

Patients who allegedly suffered side effects of Invega injections may be able to file legal action against the manufacturing company. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer to determine eligibility for an Invega lawsuit.