Risperdal Drug Timeline

Free Case Review

Risperdal is an atypical antipsychotic drug manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceutica, a division of Johnson & Johnson. The popularity of Risperdal has grown exponentially over the years as the drug has become the dominant antipsychotic prescribed in America today. Here is a basic timeline of the drug’s history:

• 1993 Risperdal is approved by the FDA as an atypical antipsychotic to treat manic or mixed delusional episodes such as schizophrenia. It rapidly becomes one of the most popular and profitable drugs in America
• 1996 Risperdal prescriptions top one million
• 2001 The Miami Herald begins to report that Risperdal is causing severe side effects when used as a chemical restraint on “unruly” juveniles in Florida foster homes
• 2002 Janssen Pharmecutica issues a letter to Canadian doctors warning them of the potential risks associated with prescribing Risperdal to elderly patients suffering from senile dementia. Risperdal is allegedly responsible for causing 37 incidents of stroke-like events and blood clots and up to 16 deaths
• 2003 Risperdal is approved to treat Bipolar disorder by the FDA
• 2003 April Janssen sends another warning letter, this time to American doctors.
• 2004 Many doctors continue to use Risperdal to treat off-label conditions such as Alzheimer’s, autism, ADD, and
• 2005 Risperdal is still the most prescribed antipsychotic in America, with sales topping over 2.1 billion dollars

You should not be made to suffer because of the carelessness and irresponsibility of a drug company who put their profits above your health. If you are a victim of the negative effects of Risperdal you may be entitled to take legal action to claim damages. Contact a Risperdal attorney today.