Despite Risks, Antipychotic Precriptions for Teens Increase

Risperdal^® is an antipsychotic medication most often used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and certain symptoms of autism. Research has linked the use of the drug in young male patients to gynecomastia, which is a condition in which young males develop abnormally large breast tissue that often requires surgery to remove.

Despite the risk of Risperdal side effects, it seems the number of prescriptions being written for teens to receive the drug may be on the rise.

According to an article from New York Daily News, researchers from Columbia University examined roughly 270,000 prescriptions for antipsychotic drugs that were written for children and teens between 2006 and 2010. They found that during that time, the number of prescriptions for Risperdal and other antipsychotic drugs slightly increased. Experts say this should be a concern due to the known and unknown side effects these drugs can pose. They also believe that before parents agree to give their children these types of medications, they should discuss alternative treatment options with their doctor, including sugar management or counseling.

For many children and adolescents, this information may come too late. That’s why our drug injury lawyers at Fleschner, Stark,Tanoos & Newlin are here to help if your loved one has been harmed by taking Risperdal. Let us help you get the answers you deserve to any questions you may have about your injury by calling (800) 477-7315 for a free consultation of your case.