Risperdal Birth Defects Are Possible
Many individuals struggle with mental illness, including mothers and mothers-to-be. It is well known that many psychiatric drugs can negatively affect a fetus while a woman is pregnant. Recent studies indicate that Risperdal birth defects may be another hazard. Risperdal is an atypical antipsychotic most commonly used in the treatment of Bipolar Disorders, Schizophrenia, and some Autistic traits.
A study by the University of Copenhagen published in 2010 documented 429 adverse reactions in children under 17, including deformity and withdrawal. Another finding by the National Institutes of Health found that prescription of drugs like these to expectant mothers is rising. Included among the findings was a 2.5 times increase in prescriptions written for expecting women being treated for Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and to a lesser extent, Depression.
Risperdal birth defects are not the first complaint to be levied against Janssen Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Risperdal and a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. Hundreds of lawsuits have been filed against the company alleging that men and boys who took the medication developed gynecomastia, or development of enlarged breasts. Several lawsuits allege that a mastectomy or liposuction was required to remove the excess breast tissue.
Additional Risperdal birth defects are reportedly possible. The pregnant mother passes much of what is in her blood stream on to the fetus. Psychiatric medication in general is very potent and creates a drastic effect on the person taking it. The kind of effect it can have on a fetus should be closely scrutinized and studied to ensure no harm comes to the fetus unknowingly. This is why it is very common for bipolar women to be weaned off their respective medications if they intend to try to have a child or find out they are pregnant.
Do I Need A Consultation?
There may be grounds for legal action if your or a loved one’s child developed birth defects, and the mother was on Risperdal during the pregnancy. Attorney Group can help you understand your options through a no obligation, free consultation. Should you decide to pursue a claim against Risperdal birth defects, we can connect you with an affiliated attorney.
