Risperdal
Increasing numbers of children are being prescribed antipsychotic medications, including Risperdal (risperidone), Zyprexa (olanzapine), Abilify (aripriprazole), Clozaril (clozapine), Seroquel (quetiapine), and Geodon (ziprasidone). Recent studies have shown, however, that patients who take these drugs often commit suicide not because of their illness, but because of the treatment for it. Many people taking these drugs also experience clinical depression, uncontrollable limb and body movements (akathisia), disruptive behavior disorders, mood disorders, pervasive developmental disorders, mental retardation, and psychotic disorders.
Although these drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for very specific disorders, doctors also prescribe them, even though the drugs are not approved for children. This is called "off-label" use, which may create increased risks for patients.
At Pogust Braslow & Millrood, protecting our clients is our primary goal. We recognize that drug companies are under an obligation to warn about the known risks of their products. When they fail to do so, they may be held responsible for the injuries or deaths that are the consequence of their inaction. In addition, doctors may be responsible when they prescribe a medication for an unapproved condition and the patient suffers a serious side effect.
If you or your child has attempted suicide, or a loved one has committed suicide while taking one of the drugs, you should immediately contact the attorneys at Pogust Braslow & Millrood, where Protecting Consumers Is Our Primary Goal. Just fill out this form, click here to send us an email or call us at (610) 941-4204.
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