Risperdal and Bi-Polar Disorder

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Bipolar disorder is a serious psychiatric condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood and occasional hallucinations and delusions. It is a relatively common problem; in fact experts speculate that it affects up to one percent of the American population. In years past it was called “manic depression,” but this label has fallen out of favor with modern mental health care professionals because it limits the scope of the disorder.

Psychiatrists recognize two distinct types of bipolar disorder: Bipolar I and Bipolar II. Bipolar I is characterized by periods of hyperactivity and an emotionally agitated state followed by a major depressive state. Bipolar II involves a depressive episode followed by a state called hypomania, a less severe form of mania. In either case, bipolar disorder can devastate the lives of not only its victims, but those who love and care for them as well. The disease fluctuates between moments of mania - excessive positive energy, rapid speaking, and generally heightened emotions and perceptions - to depression, sadness, loss of interest in activities, and sleeping disorders.

Risperdal attempts to help find a balance between moods by regulating the amount of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine helps provide stimulus for motivation, pleasure, and desire, but an irregular amount in the brain can cause a number of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Unfortunately Risperdal can cause serious motor coordination, muscles spasms, and a potentially fatal condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Living with bipolar disorder is challenging enough, but no medication should make your life more difficult. If your or someone you love was injured by Risperdal you may have a right to take legal action. Contact our dedicated legal professionals today and let us start to work for you tomorrow.