What is Risperdal 
Risperdal (risperidone), also sold as Invega, is a powerful second-generation antipsychotic made by Johnson & Johnson. It was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat schizophrenia in 1993, the FDA later expanded their approval to include bipolar disorder in teenagers and adults. It is only approved for use in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Despite it’s limited approvals the drug maker lobbied doctors to prescribe Risperdal for ADHD, sleep problems, depression and anxiety, as well as for use in children with disabilities other than autism and older people with dementia – all unsanctioned uses that put thousands of patients at risk.
A U.S. government investigation revealed that Johnson & Johnson offered drug sales reps incentives to promote Risperdal for unapproved conditions to doctors. Johnson & Johnson also paid kickbacks to the largest nursing home pharmacy in the country and lavished doctors with trips and “consulting” fees to prescribe the drug.
Side Effects of Risperdal
- Gynecomastia (growth of male breasts)
- Galactorrhea (production of milk from breasts)
- Diabetes, high blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
- Bone loss
- Sexual dysfunction
- Pituitary tumors
- Tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movement disorder)
- Weight gain, which may be severe
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
- Heart problems, heart attack, irregular heart rhythm
- Suicide
- Pancreatitis
- Increased risk of death among elderly people with dementia
"Despite A Hefty Fine, J&J Still Made Billions from Risperdal" -The Huffington Post story here.
Risperdal Litigation
Individuals have filed lawsuits against Johnson and Johnson for failure to disclose the health risks associated with the drug. Thus far, seven bellwether cases have gone to trial with four resulting in verdicts for the plaintiff ($2.5M, $1.7M, $500K and $70M) and three defense victories. J&J has also settled outside of court for undisclosed amounts with two plaintiffs.
If Risperdal has harmed you, we can review the circumstances of your case and help you submit a claim for compensation. Our lawyers at McNamara Law Firm, PLLC have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Let us work for you. Call us at 520-624-0126.