Usually gynecomastia is a subject for plastic surgeons—not little boys on an antipsychotic drug like Risperdal.
However, a Risperdal lawsuit brought against Johnson & Johnson by Aron Banks was about just that—Banks alleged that by taking Risperdal, starting when he was just nine years old, he developed breast tissue (“gynecomastia” is the medical term) which led to sustained psychological trauma.
Banks, who is now 21, claimed he took Risperdal over a four-year period (2000-2004). The drug at the time had not been approved for children.
According to a Bloomberg report (9/10/12), Johnson & Johnson has settled Banks’ lawsuit on the opening day of trial in Philadelphia; another Risperdal lawsuit alleging gynecomastia is due to head to court in Philly on September 20.
Another drug that’s been linked to reports of gynecomastia is Propecia; currently, there are lawsuits underway alleging Propecia-induced sexual dysfunction.
Risperdal has also been linked to an increase in stroke risk for older patients who suffer dementia and take antipsychotics.
The terms of Banks’ Risperdal gynecomastia settlement have not been disclosed.