The U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved Risperdal in 1993 to treat mixed delusional or manic episodes such as those that characterize schizophrenia. Six years later, the drug’s manufacturer, Johnson & Johnson, reportedly received a warning from the FDA for misleading marketing tactics, having allegedly underplayed its side effects while overstating its benefits. In 2001, the FDA required that Johnson & Johnson update the medication’s label to inform patients that the drug’s efficacy and safety in children had not yet been tested. Between 1993 and 2008, more than 1,200 children had allegedly suffered from complications including death while taking Risperdal, according to the New York Times.
If you or your child has taken Risperdal and you experienced gynecomastia or other adverse side effects that you feel were caused by the medication, consider seeking legal counsel in California to file a Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturers. Attorney Group for California can review cases free of charge, to help potential plaintiffs determine whether they have a claim to compensation.
Plaintiffs Allege Serious Side Effects
Gynecomastia, or the development of male breasts, is one of the most commonly-alleged side effects brought forth by plaintiffs across the U.S. Prolactin levels are often elevated in Risperdal patients, and it is this hormone that is responsible for lactation and breast growth in humans. Patients may consider filing a Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuit in California if they were diagnosed with the condition by a doctor. Gynecomastia can often be indicated by nipple discharge or painful, tender or swollen breasts.
Additionally, studies conducted in 2003, 2006 and 2013 established a positive connection with diabetes; in the most recent study, researchers found that teenagers taking Risperdal had a three-fold increased risk for developing diabetes within the first 12 months of treatment. Other side effects include confusion, sweating, increased heart rate and restless muscle movements.
California Risperdal Gynecomastia Lawsuit Filed
Johnson & Johnson is now facing more than 400 lawsuits throughout the U.S. that claim the company neglected to warn healthcare providers and patients about the possibility of severe side effects resulting from Risperdal use. Currently, court documents indicate that another Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuit was filed in March 2014 in the Southern District of California. The plaintiff and his mother claim that Johnson & Johnson and Janssen Pharmaceuticals unlawfully promoted and marketed a defective and unreasonably dangerous product.
According to the plaintiffs, the boy began to take Risperdal as a six-year-old child, before the medication had been approved by the FDA for treatment in children and adolescents. He continued to take the medication for four years during which he allegedly experienced side effects including enlarged nipples, significant weight gain and gynecomastia.
After he ceased Risperdal treatment, he allegedly suffered from acting out, aggression and other behavioral and emotional problems. According to the Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuit, he continues to suffer from the condition as well as impaired motor skills, delayed sexual development, diabetes and other emotional disturbances and health issues.
Plaintiffs may consider working with an attorney to file their own California Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuit if they developed gynecomastia or other adverse side effects. Plaintiffs across the U.S. are filing lawsuits against the manufacturer including various claims such as negligent infliction of emotional distress, false advertising, negligent misrepresentation, failure to warn, fraudulent concealment, breach of warranties and negligence.
File a Risperdal Gynecomastia Lawsuit in California Today
If you or your child took Risperdal and developed gynecomastia or other serious condition, contact Attorney Group for California to learn more about your legal rights and pursuing a claim for compensation. Attorney Group for California can discuss cases on behalf of patients who believe they have a claim. We can connect you with an affiliated attorney who can handle your Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuit and help you seek the compensation to which you may be entitled.
