Invega FAQ
What is Invega?
Invega Sustenna (generic: paliperidone) is a second generation antipsychotic medication approved to treat schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. The drug works by blocking the action of dopamine and serotonin, brain chemicals that may be increased in schizophrenic patients. Invega is made by Janssen Pharmaceuticals (a Johnson & Johnson company), and was first approved by the FDA in December 2006.
What’s the Problem?
Invega has been linked to the development of abnormal breast tissue in boys and young men, a condition known as gynecomastia. Although not a life-threatening condition, gynecomastia can lead to serious emotional suffering caused by embarrassment and changes in self-image.
Has Invega Been Linked to any Other Side Effects?
Yes. In addition to causing gynecomastia in boys and young men, Risperdal has been linked to the following serious side effects:
- Diabetes, high blood sugar
- Bone loss
- Sexual dysfunction
- Pituitary tumors
- Tardive dyskinesia
- Weight gain
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
- Heart problems, heart attack, irregular heart rhythm
- Suicide
- Pancreatitis
- Increased risk of death among elderly people with dementia
Has Invega Been Recalled?
No. Despite being linked to gynecomastia and other serious side effects, Invega has not been recalled in the U.S. or any other country, and continues to be prescribed to unsuspecting patients.
What are Invega Lawsuits Alleging?
Lawsuits filed over Invega allege that the drug:
- Is defectively designed and unreasonably dangerous;
- Sold under misleading marketing claims, and
- Failed to include proper warnings about its potential side effects.
Is There a Class Action?
No class action lawsuit has been filed to date in the Invega litigation. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck if you’ve been injured. Our lawyers are currently accepting potential individual claims on behalf of boys and young men who developed gynecomastia after taking Invega.
What Damages Could I Recover?
If our lawyers determine that you have a valid claim against Janssen Pharmaceuticals, you may be eligible to receive compensation to assist with medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Additionally, you may be awarded punitive damages if the manufacturer’s behavior is found to be especially harmful.
How Much Does it Cost to File a Lawsuit?
Absolutely nothing. Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you pay nothing unless we achieve a favorable outcome in your case.
Have There Been Any Settlements?
In November 2013, J&J agreed to resolve a federal investigation into the marketing of Invega and other medications by paying more than $2.2 billion. Janssen pleaded guilty to misbranding Invega and Risperdal for “off-label” uses, and for paying kickbacks to doctors and to Omnicare Inc., the largest pharmacy for nursing homes.