Oklahoma Defective Drug Lawyers Looking into Risperdal Side Effects in Boys
The Oklahoma defective drug lawyers at Maples Law Firm are looking into disturbing cases where young boys taking the antipsychotic drug Risperdal started to develop breasts. At least six lawsuits have been filed in Philadelphia against Johnson & Johnson, the company that manufactures Risperdal, alleging that the young male plaintiffs developed breasts while taking Risperdal.
According to those complaints, the problems stem from the hormone prolactin that can be elevated both in males and females who take the medication. Some of the boys who took Risperdal had to undergo mastectomies to get rid of their bosoms.
Doctors who were concerned about the drug and its effects raised their concerns in 2008 during a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) meeting. However, FDA officials at the time saw no need to strengthen the warnings on the drug. Risperdal’s label mentions the possibility of elevated prolactin levels and also gynecomastia or the growth of breasts in boys. The label warns about the risk of gynecomastia, which was seen in 2.3 percent of children and adolescents in clinical trials.
There is no question that these are serious side effects and complications. Not only are they physically troubling, but also emotionally distressing for these young men and their parents. Many of the victims had to undergo surgery to correct the problem. It is understandable that most drugs have some type of side effect. However, a serious side effect such as this must be closely examined. It is important to look into whether patients have the information they need to make important decisions relating to their health or their children’s health.
If you or a loved one has suffered serious side effects as a result of taking Risperdal, please contact the experienced Oklahoma pharmaceutical liability lawyers at (405) 705-5050 to obtain more information about pursuing your rights. Corporations that manufacture dangerous and defective drugs must be held accountable. Affected victims can seek and obtain fair and full compensation for their significant losses.