Mississippi Risperdal Attorney
Currently one of the best-selling antipsychotic medications in the country, Risperdal was initially introduced to the market in 1993. More than 10 million prescriptions have been written for the medication since its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and company documents acknowledge that the drug has brought in more than $2 billion in sales.
One decade after its approval, Risperdal, manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, began to be prescribed to those suffering from bipolar disorder. While the drug may have been prescribed to many patient populations for a variety of uses, plaintiffs can work with a Mississippi Risperdal attorney to file a lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturer, claiming that the medication caused the development of breasts in males – a condition known as gynecomastia.
If you or a male in your life suffered from this condition or other adverse side effect while taking Risperdal, contact Attorney Group for Mississippi today to learn more about your legal rights. We will connect you with a Mississippi Risperdal attorney who can assist you in seeking the compensation to which you may be entitled.
What is Risperdal?
Most notably, Risperdal has been linked to gynecomastia, or the development of breasts in men. Such a diagnosis can be devastating for the patient and may lead to embarrassment, trauma and psychological scarring. Additionally, these patients are often required to undergo surgeries to remove the breast tissue and correct the condition.
Still, the manufacturer reportedly asserted that the medication could potentially help combat symptoms such as agitation, hostility, impulsiveness and confusion that often come with mood, behavioral or developmental disorders, despite the increasing number of patients claiming that the drug caused gynecomastia.
Does Risperdal Cause Side Effects?
Those who have suffered from one or more of the following side effects should strongly consider seeking legal counsel from a Mississippi Risperdal attorney to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages:
- Sexual dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
- Pancreatitis
- Heart attack or other cardiac complications
- Suicidal Thoughts
- Pituitary tumors
Patients also claim that the medication caused an involuntary movement disorder known as tardive dyskinesia as well as diabetes, bone loss, high blood sugar, galactorrhea, or milk production, and gynecomastia. Several studies have concluded that the medication may be linked to an increased risk of death in those currently living with dementia or other similar conditions.
Why are Patients Filing Risperdal Lawsuits?
According to court documents, more than 420 Risperdal lawsuits are currently pending against Johnson & Johnson and its subsidiary, Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Plaintiffs allege that Risperdal caused severe and sometimes life-threatening complications as well as side effects of which they had no prior warning. If you suffered from gynecomastia or other complication that you feel was directly caused by the drug, a Mississippi Risperdal attorney can assist you in pursuing a claim and recovering damages for your condition.
The first Risperdal lawsuit, settled in September 2012, alleged that the drug caused the plaintiff to develop gynecomastia. Additionally, the manufacturer has agreed to a $2.2 billion settlement to resolve claims that it illegally and improperly marketed Risperdal to patients for whom the medication was not intended including children, the elderly and those with developmental disabilities.
Most recently, Johnson & Johnson agreed to a settlement that is considered to be the third largest of its kind involving a drug manufacturer. Announced on November 4, 2013, the settlement ends a decade-long investigation launched by the government in an attempt to hold Johnson & Johnson responsible for marketing their medication to other populations than those approved by the FDA in an attempt to increase profits.
Other Risperdal lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson put the health of thousands of patients at risk, as Risperdal did not perform as the company had originally promised. Those who have been injured may consider working with a Mississippi Risperdal attorney in an attempt to seek compensation for gyencomastia or any other adverse side effects you might have sustained while taking the medication.
If You Have Been Injured, Contact a Mississippi Risperdal Attorney Today
If you or someone you love took Risperdal and developed gynecomastia or another adverse complication or side effect, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer and recover damages for your injuries. Attorney Group for Mississippi will provide you with a free case evaluation to help you to determine if you have a valid claim. Should you decide to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for your condition, we will connect you with an experienced Mississippi Risperdal attorney who can further assist you.
