In September of last year, 21-year old Aaron Banks settled for an undisclosed amount with Johnson and Johnson (J&J) regarding the use of Risperdal with its negative side effects and understated risks. Banks had been treated with Risperdal from the ages 9 to 14. Because of the use of this drug he developed a condition known as Gynecomastia, or the abnormal growth of male breast tissue. Banks’ attorney Stephen Sheller explains that the breast development is caused by the stimulation and increased levels of prolactin—a hormone released by the pituitary gland. Unfortunately for Banks, this growth of males breasts lead to prolonged psychological trauma. This case was only the first of many to follow; recently J&J has been involved in a 2.2 billion dollar Risperdal settlement with the federal government. This law suit is partially based on the alleged understated risks of the medication. Sheller also stated, “There are boys who grew breasts as large as ‘D’ cups. There’s a major design defect here… not just the fact that labeling understated risks.”
Legal Commentary
From a civil standpoint, our firm has represented numerous individuals and families who are victims of Risperdal’s dangerous side effects, and the following psychological trauma. Although the use of Risperdal in young boys has not widely resulted in death, the breast growth has been said to be the cause of many psychological symptoms which impacts their quality of life. If you or a loved one have taken Risperdal and have experienced abnormal breast growth, we encourage you to consult with one of our Risperdal attorneys as soon as possible. A successful civil claim that is pursued against the responsible party will ensure the victims are not burdened with costly medical expenses, and will hopefully compensate them for their pain, suffering, and lost wages for time missed from work. Further questions can be directed to the Fears | Nachawati Law Firm by emailing the lead Risperdal lawyer, Majed Nachawati at mn@fnlawfirm.com, or by calling our office at 1.866.705.7584.
About the Author
Majed Nachawati is a preeminent Pharmaceutical Products Liability Lawyer with a focus on representing Risperdal victims and families harmed by dangerous drugs on a nationwide basis. Mr. Nachawati has resolved numerous cases through trial and settlement that have resulted in seven and eight figure confidential settlements. He is on the Grievance Committee for the State Bare of Texas. He is licensed to practice before the Supreme Court of Texas and Arkansas, and is in most federal courts in the nation and holds specific licenses in the Northern, Southern, and Eastern Districts of Texas. Mr. Nachawati is a member of the Board of Directors of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Board of Directors for Public Justice, a Leaders’ Forum and PAC member of the American Association for Justice. Mr. Nachawati has been recognized as a Super Lawyer in Texas Monthly Magazine for the past four consecutive years for legal excellence, in connection with pharmaceutical injury cases. Mr. Nachawati is also a member of The Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Mr. Nachawati can be reached by email at mn@fnlawfirm.com or by calling 1.866.705.7584.
References
Jackson, I. (2013, November 12). Risperdal safety information from clinical trials withheld by j&j: Records. Retrieved from http://www.aboutlawsuits.com/risperdal-safety-information-clinical-trials-55879/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed: aboutlawsuits (AboutLawsuits.com)
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2010, December 21). Gynecomastia (enlarged breasts in men). Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gynecomastia/DS00850
Pharma & Healthcare. (2012, September 11). J&j sees male breasts and quickly settles risperdal suit. Retrieved from http://www.forbes.com/sites/edsilverman/2012/09/11/jj-sees-male-breasts-and-quickly-settles-risperdal-suit/