You may have heard them recently. Or, if youre in the medical profession or just a fan of Latin, you may already know what they mean. But chances are you have no idea, and now youre intrigued. What do they mean, and who needs to know about them? Read on for the answer, it could change your life.
Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a rare condition found in teenage males that causes them to grow breasts. Ok, that is a little misleading. In fact, almost all teenage males go through a period of gynecomastia, but most never have any lasting physical effects. In truth, the condition is when the growth continues and does not abate. It is extremely rare for it to just happen, however, there are things that enhance the problem. For instance, teens who take the antipsychotic drug Risperdal are at an increased risk of growing breasts.
Galactorrhea
Similar to gynecomastia, galactorrhea could be considered a secondary stage to the process. After a male has grown breasts, he may begin to lactate. This happens uncontrollably, and without stimulation. This condition is also caused by a young man taking Risperdal.
How Does Risperdal Cause Gynecomastia and Galactorrhea?
In order to level out the thinking patterns in those who suffer from schizophrenia (the drug is also prescribed to those who are bipolar, suffer from ADD/ADHD, and a few other mental illnesses), the drug works with the brain to control the dopamine and serotonin receptors. However, one side effect is that the body produces more prolactin than it should.
This prolactin is found in elevated amounts in young nursing mothers. Which is where it should be, they need breasts that lactate in order to feed the babies. However, when it is found in elevated levels in young men, the physical outcome is the same. They grow breasts and start to lactate.
Risperdal Lawsuits
These conditions were never fully disclosed before the drug was made available to the public. As a result, there are thousands of Risperdal lawsuits being filed around the country. And not just because we are a sue-happy country. In order to reverse the effects of gynecomastia, expensive surgery must be performed, and therapy must be conducted to help heal the psychological scars.
Contact a Dangerous Drug Attorney
If you have been hurt by using Risperdal, you may be able to collect compensation to cover medical bills by filing your own Risperdal lawsuit. Contact a dangerous drug attorney today to schedule your free case review.
