According to a 2009 study published in the medical journal Pharmacotherapy by JR Bostwick titled “Antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia.”, “Use of antipsychotic agents has been associated with hyperprolactinemia, or elevated prolactin levels; this hormonal abnormality can interfere with the functioning of reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic systems” and “First-generation antipsychotics pose the greatest risk of causing [the] adverse effect [of hyperprolactinemia]; however, second-generation antipsychotics, particularly risperidone [Risperdal] and paliperidone, also often increase prolactin secretion.”

Hyperprolactinemia is a condition characterized by elevated prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for breast development and milk production.  Accordingly, one of the consequences of hyperprolactinemia in boys is gynecomastia – male breast development.  (“Hyperprolactinemia has short- and long-term consequences that can seriously affect quality of life: menstrual disturbances, galactorrhea, sexual dysfunction, gynecomastia, infertility, decreased bone mineral density, and breast cancer.”)

Bostwick et al. (2009) write that if hyperprolactinemia symptoms are evident, “the drug can be changed to another agent that is less likely to affect prolactin levels; alternatively, a dopamine agonist may be added, although this may compromise antipsychotic efficacy.”

Sadly, the manufacturers of risperidone (Risperdal) has time and again failed to adequately notify users of the risk for gynecomastia, and as such, a number of Risperdal lawsuits have been filed.  If you or a loved one used Risperdal and suffered gynecomastia, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation for your undue injury.

For a free, no-obligation case consultation, contact our team of Risperdal lawyers at the information provided below.  We have the compassion, experience, and resources to win the compensation you deserve.

(855) 452 – 5529

justinian@dangerousdrugs.us

Our Risperdal Lawsuit Information page is a great place to start if you have any questions about Risperdal.