A May 27, 2015 Risperdal lawsuit settlement was reached in Philadelphia’s Court of Common Pleas. The lawsuit was the third of its kind to go to trial in Philadelphia in 2015, but it was the first of the three to result in a settlement. Risperdal attorneys note that the drug has been linked to an increased risk of gynecomastia, which is the abnormal growth of breast tissue in males. Claims have been brought that allege drug maker Johnson & Johnson failed to disclose the risks associated with Risperdal.
What Is Risperdal?
Risperdal is an anti-psychotic prescription drug that was first approved for use in the treatment of schizophrenia in adults. In 2006, the FDA expanded its approved use to include treatment of adult and juvenile bipolar disorder, schizophrenia in children and some of the behavioral issues associated with autism in children.
Risperdal Linked to Abnormal Growth of Male Breast Tissue
Since its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1993, Risperdal has been connected to at least 13,000 adverse reactions reported to the FDA. In late 2008, reports began surfacing that Risperdal could cause an increased amount of prolactin in the body. This hormone is responsible for stimulating breast development and the production of milk in women. When this happens to men it can cause gynecomastia, an abnormal growth of breast tissue in males.
Previous Risperdal Trials in Philadelphia
The first Risperdal trial in Philadelphia resulted in a $2.5 million verdict. The jury found that the drug maker was negligent and failed to warn patients about the risk of gynecomastia while taking the drug. In another lawsuit, the jury also found that J&J was negligent in failing to disclose Risperdal risks.
The May 2015 Risperdal settlement was reached just a few hours into opening arguments for an undisclosed amount. A 9-year-old boy’s family claimed that he developed gynecomastia after taking the drug and required surgery to remove the breast tissue.
Affected Patients May Be Entitled to Compensation
If a patient who takes Risperdal develops abnormal male breast tissue, he may be able to receive compensation for damages, including medical expenses, scarring and disfigurement from medical treatment, mental anguish, and pain and suffering. Affected patients are encouraged to seek legal counsel to learn more about their options.
The Time to Pursue a Claim is Limited. Contact Us Today.
If you believe you have had an adverse reaction to Risperdal, or if a loved one has been affected, contact Attorney Group today. We can answer your questions, and if you have a case, we can connect you with an affiliated Risperdal attorney. Your call is free, confidential, and without obligation, but the time to pursue a claim is limited, so contact us today.
