Risperdal is an anti-psychotic medication approved to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism. However, thousands of doctors have prescribed Risperdal for unapproved uses, allegedly leading to serious consequences. The use of Risperdal has been linked to a condition called gynecomastia, or the enlargement of male breast tissue. This condition has been seen in young boys who have used Risperdal.

What Is Risperdal?

Risperdal is made and sold by the Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc. Risperdal (risperidone) is a medication used to treat severe psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, acute mania, and irritability associated with autistic disorders. Risperdal is also sometimes prescribed with antidepressant medications to treat severe depression.

Risperdal can significantly increase levels of prolactin, a hormone that the body normally releases to stimulate breast growth and milk production. In females, Risperdal side effects may cause spontaneous production of milk. In males, Risperdal side effects may cause male breast growth — a condition called gynecomastia.

What is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is the growth or enlargement of male breast tissue caused by a hormonal imbalance. Although the tissue is benign (non-cancerous), it can be devastating for a man’s social health, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing. This is especially likely when it affects young boys or teenagers.

In a study published in 2006 in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, researchers warned:

“Risperidone administered to adolescents at doses commonly used for the treatment of psychotic symptoms can strongly increase prolactin levels, with clinical consequences such as gynecomastia and/or galactorrhea. Given that the long-term effects of antipsychotic drug-induced hyperprolactinemia are not well documented, especially regarding osteopenia, infertility, growth, and pubertal delay, Risperdal should be administered with caution to children and adolescents.”

Surgery is often necessary to cure gynecomastia. Liposuction procedures may be effective for mild or moderate cases. However, severe cases of gynecomastia usually require breast-reduction surgery, or a complete mastectomy— removing the breast tissue and the excess skin of the breast.

Risperdal Gynecomastia Lawsuits

Over 420 Risperdal lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson alleging serious personal injuries, and the FDA has issued several warnings related to the drug.

In recent months, Johnson & Johnson has lost three consecutive Risperdal class action lawsuits over marketing tactics of Risperdal. In September 2012, the company settled an individual Risperdal lawsuit filed on behalf of a young man who developed large breasts after being treated with the drug for a period of five years.

Young boys who have developed “man boobs” as a result of Risperdal side effects can suffer from severe psychological trauma.

If you or a loved one have experienced Risperdal side effects or complications, you may be eligible to file a claim against Johnson & Johnson.