After reviewing 17 studies on four drugs in the class, the FDA found that the death rate for elderly patients on the medication was 1.6 to 1.7 times greater than those on a placebo. Most of the deaths were either heart related or from infections.

This action follows the warning letters sent by Johnson & Johnson in April 2003, alerting physicians about Risperdal’s link to an elevated risk of stroke in elderly patients. At the time, the company had received 37 reports of stroke or stroke-like events, including 16 deaths, among Risperdal patients.

Brown & Crouppen understands the risks faced by those who have been prescribed Risperdal. Our clients are backed by a team of legal professionals, medical experts and investigators who are committed to ensuring that their rights are protected. A large area of our concentration is dangerous drug litigation involving manufacturers and suppliers of unsafe drugs and products.

Risperdal, is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and psychosis, and is generally prescribed by physicians to treat psychotic disorders and symptoms such as hallucinations, hostility and delusions. It works by adjusting the imbalance of chemicals in a user's brain. However, Risperdal and other antipsychotic drugs in its class have been linked to two serious complications known as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) and Tardive Dyskinesia. NMS is a potentially fatal syndrome involving muscle rigidity, an altered mental status and symptoms of cardiac instability (irregular blood pressure, tachycardia, irregular pulse). Tardive Dyskinesia is a central nervous system disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the limbs, as well as twitching of the face and tongue. There is no cure for Tardive Dyskinesia.

In addition, Risperdal is known to mask signs and symptoms of drug overdose, and conditions such as intestinal obstruction, brain tumor, and Reye's syndrome (a dangerous neurological condition that may follow viral infections, usually occurring in children). Risperdal can also cause difficulty when swallowing, which in turn can cause a type of pneumonia.

Risperdal has also been linked to the development of diabetes. A study conducted by a former FDA official and a Duke University researcher discovered that over a nine-year period, 132 diabetes cases, five ending in death, were reported to the FDA by Risperdal users. In August 2003, researchers with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Boston University and the University of Illinois at Chicago released findings from a study conducted on three antipsychotic medications, including Risperdal, that also linked the drug to an increased rate of diabetes. In the same month, Israeli physicians reported that risperidone may increase the risk of osteoporosis in premenopausal schizophrenics.

Other side effects of Risperdal include:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle weakness
• Spasms
• High fever
• Constipation
• Weight gain
• Headache

Please consult your physician before discontinuing any medication.

If you have been injured by a dangerous drug, the manufacturer may have failed in its duty to design, make, inspect and label the product appropriately. At Brown & Crouppen, our experienced team of Risperdal and defective drug lawyers provide tough, aggressive representation for Risperdal victims and their families. When you choose us to handle your Risperdal lawsuit, our entire team becomes fully committed to your cause. We’ll find answers, hold negligent companies responsible and get you the compensation you deserve.

Brown & Crouppen can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights, so please call Brown & Crouppen at Toll Free: 866-991-4700 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.

Call Brown & Crouppen at Toll-Free: 866-991-4700 for your free
legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.

Toll-Free: 866-991-4700