Risperdal, an antipsychotic medication currently prescribed to treat patients with schizophrenia, manic-depressive disorders, autism, Asperger's syndrome, and paranoia, has come under fire from consumer advocacy groups in recent years. In fact, a Duke University study was conducted in 2006 due to concerns over its efficacy and unwelcome side effects.
The drug known as Risperdal works by blocking dopamine, which releases prolactin from the pituitary gland. Thus, Risperdal creates a sedating effect on the patient, typical in antipsychotics of its class. It can be administered orally in the form of tablets or via a bi-weekly injection (in a form marketed under the name "Risperdal Consta") for those who have trouble remembering to take daily pills.
There have surfaced an alarming number of recent reports of the development of pituitary tumors among patients who have used Risperdal (manufactured by Johnson & Johnson). Because the pituitary gland in located very close to the optic nerve, those pituitary tumors (usually benign but sometimes requiring removal by surgery) have led to other unwelcome and unexpected complications, including eye problems, headaches, bleeding, and convulsions.
Other noted and suggested side effects of Risperdal from patients and physicians are just as concerning as the ones mentioned above. Those cited by Risperdal users include: nausea, hyperprolactinemia, amenorrhea, galactorrhea, gynecomastia (male breast development), insomnia, dizziness, weight gain, tremors, sexual dysfunction, tardive dyskinesia, muscle pain, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cautioned the public about Risperdal (especially after receiving so many reports from consumers and advocacy gropus) and Risperdal's possible link to pituitary gland tumors, the medication is still available on the market.
By not receiving proper warning about the dangers of Risperdal usage, you may be entitled to financial restitution for your side effects and any lifestyle changes or medical bills that resulted from taking Risperdal.
Dedicated to protecting consumers like you, our law firm wants to ensure that those whose lives have been negatively changed by taking Risperdal receive fair restitution for any suffering they have endured from taking the drug.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or tardive dyskinesia and gynecomastia (male breast development) in teens or adolescents after taking Risperdal, seek medical help first, then contact our Risperdal lawyers today.