What the Lawsuits Allege
Risperdal (risperidone), an antipsychotic from Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), was prescribed to many children and adolescents. Lawsuits allege it caused gynecomastia — the growth of female-type breast tissue in boys and young men — sometimes requiring surgery, and that the company knew of the risk, downplayed it, and improperly marketed the drug for off-label uses in children before it was approved for them.
The combination of a stigmatizing physical effect in minors and alleged off-label marketing made this litigation especially charged.
The Verdicts and Settlement
Philadelphia juries returned a series of verdicts against Johnson & Johnson, including a $70 million award and, in one case, an $8 billion punitive-damages verdict later reduced to about $6.8 billion. Other cases produced verdicts in the millions. In October 2021, Johnson & Johnson agreed to settle thousands of remaining Risperdal gynecomastia lawsuits. Separately, the company had earlier paid large sums — including a $2.2 billion federal resolution — over off-label marketing of the drug.
The oversized punitive verdict reflected jurors’ view of the alleged conduct, even though courts trimmed it.
What Families Should Know
This is legal-news coverage, not medical advice; antipsychotics are important medications for serious conditions. The main litigation has largely resolved and is not an open class action. Families whose son developed gynecomastia on Risperdal should keep the prescription and medical records and consult qualified counsel about any remaining options.
Before You Act
Thinking About Filing a Claim?
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Risperdal Lawsuit: The Gynecomastia Verdicts and Settlements: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
What is the Risperdal lawsuit about?
Allegations that the antipsychotic Risperdal caused gynecomastia (breast growth) in boys and young men and that Janssen downplayed the risk and marketed it off-label for children.
What were the Risperdal verdicts?
They included a $70 million award and an $8 billion punitive verdict later reduced to about $6.8 billion, among others. Johnson & Johnson settled thousands of remaining cases in 2021.
Can I still file a Risperdal lawsuit?
The main litigation has largely resolved and is not an open class action. Anyone with a specific situation should consult qualified counsel about deadlines and options.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Case status, eligibility criteria, and any amounts described are as reported at the date shown and may change. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your own situation.