Risperdal (risperidone) is in a class of medications known as atypical antipsychotics. The drug is used to treat schizophrenia, manic or mixed episodes in patients with bipolar disorder, and behavioral problems associated with autism.
Male breast growth is among the most serious side effects of Risperdal. The condition is called gynecomastia and results from the growth of excess breast tissue, not excess fat tissue. At the same time, rapid weight gain and new-onset diabetes have also been linked to use of Risperdal.
Gynecomastia from Risperdal
Risperidone can cause elevated levels of the hormone prolactin in the blood. This is known as hyperprolactinemia and becomes more likely with longer exposure to the drug at higher doses. One of the clinical consequences of hyperprolactinemia is the development of abnormal breast tissue, or gynecomastia.
Gynecomastia can occur in one or both breasts. Patients can experience tender breasts accompanied by discharge, and breast enlargement that is excessive and uneven. In many cases the condition is permanent, meaning breast size does not return to normal even after discontinuing use of risperidone. Some patients require hormone therapy or surgical treatment such as liposuction or mastectomy to reduce their breast size.
Recent medical studies show that younger patients may be more susceptible to elevated prolactin levels.
In addition to physical injuries, young patients report severe psychological impact from gynecomastia. Users can develop negative body image and become averse to removing their shirts in public while swimming or during other common activities. The embarrassment adolescent patients feel can compound the social difficulties they already face from underlying psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, and bipolar disorder.
Breast Growth in Adults
In March 2014, a study of 1 million adults in the U.S. found that Risperdal increases the risk of gynecomastia in older men, as well. Users of Risperdal were found to have a 69% higher risk of developing gynecomastia when compared to nonusers of the drug. This risk was also higher with Risperdal than with other antipsychotic medications such as Zyprexa or Seroquel.
Other Risperdal Side Effects
An increasing number of patients report rapid weight gain shortly after beginning treatment with Risperdal. Many users also complain of developing diabetes even with no personal or family history of the disease. Additional side effects related to high prolactin levels include galactorrhoea, menstrual abnormalities, sexual dysfunction like hypogonadism, fertility problems, and bone demineralization.
Risperdal Lawsuits Now Pending
Risperdal lawsuits are underway nationwide seeking to compensate victims of breast growth, weight gain, and diabetes. The Risperdal litigation has centered on the claims of young males affected by these side effects, though the claims of adults are increasingly under review. More Risperdal lawsuit information is available on this website. You can also reach one of our experienced Risperdal attorneys to discuss a potential claim at (866) 808-2424 or through our brief online form at any time.