Risperdal lawsuits have been filed throughout the U.S. on behalf of young boys and men who allegedly developed gynecomastia, or breast growth, while taking the medication. The federal litigation is underway in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. A Court Order update released on September 24, 2014 stated that the litigation’s three bellwether trials have been moved from September 29, 2014 and November 3, 2014 to November 3, 2014 and January 3, 2015, respectively. The third trial will begin sometime in February 2015.
Risperdal Overview
Johnson & Johnson manufactured and marketed Risperdal as an atypical antipsychotic medication for the treatment of symptoms associated with irritability, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. While Risperdal was approved for pediatric uses by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2006, the agency warned that taking Risperdal or other similar medications may increase a boy’s risk of developing male breasts – a condition known as gynecomastia.
Lawsuits Include Claims of Gynecomastia
According to court documents, more than 700 Risperdal lawsuits are pending in the Pennsylvania proceeding, and most of the claims include the development of gynecomastia in young boys and men. Each of the claims accuses Johnson & Johnson of failing to warn of the potential complications associated with the medication.
Potential Risperdal Complications
Researchers concluded that Risperdal patients were 69 percent more likely to develop male breasts than those who did not take the drug. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology on August 6, 2014, suggested that Risperdal may increase prolactin levels, which would subsequently contribute to breast growth.
Not only has Risperdal been linked to breast growth in males, but two studies recently found that the product could increase the risk of type 2 diabetes as well. In both September 2014 and August 2013, two studies found that children using Risperdal or other psychiatric medications may be three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, compared to children who did not take the products.
Individuals who have taken Risperdal and have developed breasts may be entitled to seek compensation for their injuries by filing a Risperdal lawsuit in Arkansas. An experienced attorney can help you to determine if you have a case in Arkansas, and you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Do You Have a Risperdal Lawsuit? Contact Us Today
Attorney Group for Arkansas can discuss potential claims on behalf of patients or their children who allegedly suffered from gynecomastia while taking Risperdal. We can provide you with a free case evaluation and put you in contact with one of our affiliated Arkansas attorneys who can help file your Risperdal lawsuit and assist you in seeking damages to which you may be entitled. Call us today for more information.
