Risperdal (risperidone) is an antipsychotic medication prescribed to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. But emerging research has linked Risperdal and similar antipsychotic drugs to an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly among long-term users.
Now, lawsuits are being filed against Janssen Pharmaceuticals (a Johnson & Johnson company), alleging that the drug’s manufacturers failed to warn patients and healthcare providers about this life-altering risk.
If you were diagnosed with breast cancer after taking Risperdal, Invega, or Zyprexa, you may be eligible to file a claim. See if you qualify for a FREE case review – Click HERE!
How Does Risperdal Increase Breast Cancer Risk?
Risperdal belongs to a group of medications known as atypical antipsychotics, which are known to raise prolactin levels. Prolactin is a hormone responsible for breast tissue development and lactation.
When prolactin levels remain elevated over time, it can lead to:
- Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia in men, tissue changes in women)
- Hormonal imbalance
- Increased risk of developing breast cancer
A 2022 study reviewing over 540,000 women’s health records found that:
- Women who took antipsychotics had a 35% higher risk of breast cancer
- Category 1 prolactin-elevating drugs like Risperdal were linked to a 62% increase in breast cancer risk
Despite these findings, many patients report that they were never warned about this risk before starting treatment.
Why Are Breast Cancer Patients Filing Lawsuits?
Lawsuits against Janssen Pharmaceuticals and other drugmakers focus on failure to warn and corporate negligence. Legal claims allege that:
- Risperdal’s manufacturers knew or should have known about the link between prolactin elevation and breast cancer
- The company failed to provide adequate warnings to patients and prescribing doctors
- Marketing materials downplayed risks, preventing patients from making fully informed treatment decisions
- Some healthcare providers may have prescribed Risperdal without being aware of safer alternatives for certain patients
If you developed breast cancer after taking Risperdal or a similar antipsychotic, legal action may be an option. Click HERE for a FREE case review with an attorney experienced in pharmaceutical lawsuits.
Who Qualifies for a Risperdal Breast Cancer Lawsuit?
You may qualify to file a claim if:
- You are a woman diagnosed with breast cancer
- You took Risperdal, Invega, or Zyprexa (or their generic equivalents)
- You used the medication for at least 2 years
- You started using the medication after 2014
Even if your prescribing doctor did not mention breast cancer risks, you may still have grounds for a claim. These cases focus on what the manufacturer knew but failed to disclose.
What Types of Compensation Are Available?
Breast cancer can affect nearly every part of life, from health and finances to emotional wellbeing. Plaintiffs in Risperdal breast cancer lawsuits are seeking compensation for:
- Medical costs: Surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, follow-up care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity: Time away from work or inability to return to prior employment
- Physical pain and suffering: From treatment, side effects, and long-term complications
- Emotional distress: The mental toll of cancer diagnosis and treatment
- Reduced quality of life: Impact on daily activities and future plans
- Punitive damages: To hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for withholding safety information
Why Is This Issue Gaining Attention Now?
For years, research has shown that antipsychotic medications like Risperdal can elevate prolactin levels, but newer studies have confirmed a direct link to increased breast cancer risk. This has led to:
- New lawsuits being filed across the country
- Heightened scrutiny of pharmaceutical marketing practices
- Increased awareness among former and current patients who were not informed of these dangers
The combination of medical findings and legal action has brought the issue into the national spotlight.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Affected
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer after using Risperdal or similar medications, consider these steps:
- Gather Medical Records: Document your cancer diagnosis, treatment history, and prescription records.
- Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss your medication history and whether prolactin-related issues were monitored.
- Consult an Attorney: A legal professional can review your case and explain your options.
- Act Quickly: Statutes of limitations vary by state, so prompt action is important.
How Injury Claims Can Help
At Injury Claims, we work with attorneys who are actively investigating Risperdal breast cancer lawsuits. Our legal partners understand the emotional and financial toll of a cancer diagnosis and are committed to helping patients seek justice.
If you were diagnosed with breast cancer after using Risperdal, Invega, or Zyprexa, click HERE to start your FREE case review today.
