Stephen Sheller Advocating For Children Harmed By Risperdal

CBS Evening News recently reported on serious side effects of the drug Risperdal. Risperdal is a powerful antipsychotic medication. The FDA approved Risperdal for use in adults who have psychotic disorders. However, many doctors have prescribed Risperdal for children who are not psychotic. In fact, Risperdal has been prescribed to treat behavior problems in children who are diagnosed with conditions such as autism or ADD. Significant side effects have been suffered by some children being treated with Risperdal. Several of these children are represented by attorney Stephen Sheller of Philadelphia, PA. Mr. Sheller is suing Janssen, the maker of Risperdal, on behalf of ten boys harmed by the drug. He alleges that Janssen improperly marketed Risperdal for unapproved pediatric use. The company also failed to properly warn of the risk for diabetes and seizures. Another serious side effect of Risperdal is called gynecomastia, which is breast growth. A number of young boys taking Risperdal have suffered gynecomastia. One of Mr. Sheller’s clients began suffering from gynecomastia at the age of 4, while being given Risperdal. Gynecomastia is irreversible. Some boys have had mastectomies to treat unbridled breast growth. Though that may address the physical symptoms of gynecomastia, there can be lasting emotional effects. Currently, Risperdal is still on the the market.