You may have noticed the news regarding Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and recent verdicts for their prescription drug Risperdal (Risperidone). The lawsuits have been brought against J&J for deceptive marketing practices pushing doctors to prescribe Risperdal for children, even packaging the drug with small toys. This was an off-label prescription, meaning it was not approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for use in children in this manner. Off-label prescriptions are not illegal and many doctors prescribe off-label, not necessarily knowing it’s an off-label use of the drug. For those of you who have not had a chance to catch up on the latest drug causing severe, and unintended, side effects, we will briefly explain what Risperdal is, what it does and side effects.
Risperdal, also known as Risperidone, is an atypical antipsychotic that affects brain chemicals, as well as hormones, in the body. It is widely used for the treatment of mania and schizophrenia. However, it has been prescribed off-label for children suffering from irritability disorders. Over time, it was found that the drug causes a hormonal imbalance in young boys where they grow breasts, a disease called gynecomastia. This is the most recent issue found with the drug. Here is a current list of side effects, as listed by the U.S National Library of Medicine:
- Increased risk of stroke
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
- Tardive dyskinesia (could be permanent, and may include involuntary facial muscle movement)
- High blood sugar levels or high cholesterol levels (i.e. can cause diabetes)
- Increased levels of a hormone called prolactin (i.e. can cause gynecomastia)
- Low blood pressure
WHAT CAN I DO IF I AM EXPERIENCING SIDE EFFECTS FROM RISPERDAL?
If you have been affected by side effects of Risperdal, you may need to enlist the help of Risperdal attorneys. You will first need to establish that you have a viable claim. Your attorney can provide guidance to start your case against Johnson & Johnson or other liable parties.
You must be able to prove that your injury or illness exists by providing documentation such as medical records to support your claim. You must also be able to link your condition back to the effects of Risperdal.
Further, you must establish liability of the manufacturer. Gacovino, Lake & Associates specializes in cases like this.
We can help you review the facts of your claim and develop a plan of action. Our focus is on ensuring victims of negligent pharmaceutical manufacturing or sales practices, or others harmed by medications, obtain reimbursement for their losses and damages. Call us today at (800) 550-0000 to set up a free case review. You can also complete the free short and confidential form online on our contact page to request a call back from our firm’s Risperdal lawyers.
