New Study Reports an Increase in Use of Risperdal, Antipsychotics in Australian Children
San Diego, California (PRWEB) June 20, 2014 -- According to a recent study, use of atypical antipsychotics in children is increasing in Australia and other countries. According to the study, more than 12,600 children under the age 19 are using antipsychotics, and the most commonly prescribed drug in children under the age 14 is risperidone (sold in the U.S. as Risperdal).*
In light of the recent study, the San Diego personal injury lawyers of The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. are announcing that they are investigating potential Risperdal lawsuits on behalf of men and boys that have developed gynecomastia (male breasts) after using Risperdal.
“Risperdal lawsuits have been filed in the U.S. on behalf of young boys who allegedly developed gynecomastia after being prescribed Risperdal,” said Melinda Helbock, Founder of The Law office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. “Lawsuits allege Risperdal has been marketed for unapproved uses in children.”
According to an article by news.com.au, the study has raised concerns over pediatric uses of these medications in Australia, particularly in children that are younger than the approved age for use. The article notes that medical professionals are questioning why so many children are being prescribed such powerful medications for off label uses such as anxiety.**
Concerns over pediatric use of antipsychotics such as Risperdal are also mounting in the U.S. due to evidence of a possible increased risk for certain side effects, including the development of gynecomastia.
One of the reasons for concern is use of medications such as Risperdal increases prolactin, a hormone involved in lactation. P. Murali Doraiswamy, a Duke psychiatrist and co-author of a study on antipsychotics and prolactin, said changes in prolactin levels can have consequences. According to the study, Risperdal had the strongest link to gynecomastia in children and adolescents than any of the other antipsychotics evaluated.***
About The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C.
The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. is a San Diego personal injury law firm that represents individuals who have been harmed by prescription medications and their families. The firm is currently investigating potential Risperdal lawsuits on behalf of boys and men who have developed gynecomastia and who have a history of Risperdal use. To learn more about the firm visit helbocklaw.com.
Resources:
*http://pbs.gov.au/info/industry/listing/participants/public-release-docs/antipsychotics-children-adolescents-2013
** http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/why-are-our-toddlers-being-prescribed-antipsychotic-drugs/story-fnet08ui-1226946316491
***http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16716128?ordinalpos=2&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DefaultReportPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum
Michael Helbock, The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock APC, http://www.helbocklaw.com/, +1 760 271 5327, [email protected]
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