Risperdal May Cause Boys to Develop Female Breast Tissue

Concern is growing at an alarming rate about the damaging side effects of Risperdal in young boys.  If your son developed female breast tissue, known as Gynecomastia, while taking Risperdal your family may be entitled to compensation.  If you have any questions about this drug or your legal rights, call us for a FREE CONSULTATION at 901-680-9777.

What is Risperdal?

Risperdal is an antipsychotic prescription medication, also known as Risperidone.  The drug is commonly prescribed to treat mental disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and it was initially approved only for adults.   However, increasingly Risperdal has been used to treat young boys with conditions such as bipolar disorder, aggression, mood disorders, depression, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other behavior disorders.  It is also commonly prescribed to kids with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Although Risperdal was not initially approved for children, more than 25% of individuals taking the drug are now children and adolescents.

Side Effects of Risperdal in Young Boys

One of the most damaging and permanent reported side effects of Risperdal in young boys and teenagers is male breast growth, known as Gynecomastia.  This condition is irreversible and can only be treated with surgery.  Aside from the costly and sometimes risky surgery that is required to treat this condition, Gynecomastia can have a devastating affect on the emotional stability of the child.  After all, any child or adolescent who has been taking Risperdal most likely already suffers from some type of mental illness or behavior disorder.

Experts believe that Risperdal causes Gynecomastia by increasing the release of prolactin in the body.  Prolactin is a hormone that helps to regulate breast growth in women.  Because Risperdal works by blocking dopamine, which can in turn cause the pituitary gland in the brain to release prolactin, the effect can be a significant enlargement of male breast tissue.

Do You Have More Questions?

Please feel free to contact our office for a FREE CONSULTATION by calling 901-680-9777.  We are here to help!