Understanding the Risperdal female breast (gynecomastia) based on studies and research is crucial for people who use this medication. Risperdal is commonly prescribed for mental health issues. However, concerns have arisen as it could unexpectedly lead to breast growth resembling females in some men.
Therefore, digging deeper into this matter is essential. This article aims to guide everyone in making the best decisions and managing the impact of this medication on the body. So, let’s continue reading to explore more details about this topic!
What Is Risperdal?
Before learning the studies on Risperdal female breast, you need to know what Risperdal is. Risperdal, also commonly called Risperidone, is a type of medication that helps by altering how certain chemicals in the brain work. It is prescribed to adults and some 13-year-old children to manage schizophrenia.
Additionally, it’s used in adults and children at least 10 years old, to address symptoms of bipolar disorder. Moreover, it aids in managing irritability in autistic children aged 5 to 16 years old.
What About Its Doze?
Risperdal is usually available in tablets, a liquid form, or an injection. If your symptoms stabilize after using tablets or liquid forms, you might consider the long-acting injection. In fact, the required dosage of Risperdal differs for each person.
Typically, your doctor will begin with a small dose and, if required, slowly raise it. This gradual increase helps your body get used to the medicine and reduces the risk of side effects. However, it’s essential to strictly follow your doctor’s instructions while taking it.
How to Take Risperdal Properly?
Here are some safe steps to take Risperdal based on the doctor’s advice!
- Risperdal tablets should be taken with a glass of water.
- Measure Risperdal liquid carefully using the provided syringe. You can mix the liquid with water, orange juice, or low-fat milk, but avoid using tea. If mixed with another liquid, ensure you consume all of it to get a full dose.
- You can take Risperdal with or without food. If it causes nausea, try taking it with food.
- If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember on that day. But if it’s close to your next scheduled dose, take that one instead. Don’t double your dose.
- Lastly, keep taking Risperdal regularly. It might take a few weeks to start working and several months to feel its full benefits. Don’t stop suddenly, as your symptoms might return if discontinued early.
How Can Risperdal Grow Female Breasts in Men?
Potential adverse effects of the antipsychotic drug Risperdal may involve gynecomastia. It’s a distressing condition characterized by unusual breast tissue growth in boys and young men.
Typically, Risperdal works by blocking dopamine, which consequently leads to a significant increase in prolactin levels (a hormone from the pituitary gland). Prolactin normally stimulates breast development and milk production in women.
However, in men, heightened prolactin levels might initiate similar processes, causing gynecomastia and abnormal lactation. Moreover, in severe cases, males who use Risperdal have developed breasts as large as “D” cups.
Studies on Risperdal Female Breast
The connection between Risperdal use and gynecomastia was first noted in 1999, and since then, a substantial amount of research has reinforced this association. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology in 2006 highlighted that:
“Adolescents given standard doses of Risperidone for treating psychotic symptoms might encounter notably elevated levels of prolactin. This can result in clinical problems like gynecomastia, so caution is advised when using Risperidone in children and adolescents.”
Another study on Risperdal female breast from the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology in September 2015 indicated another condition related to this case. It explained that young males taking Risperdal might face a fivefold increase in developing excess breast tissue compared to non-users.
Moreover, older men taking this medication might have up to a 69% higher chance of developing gynecomastia compared to men not using antipsychotic drugs.
What About Its Symptoms?
Generally, symptoms of gynecomastia can include:
- simple in the breast gland tissue;
- pain or tenderness in the breasts; and
- discharge of the nipples in one or both breasts.
Gynecomastia’s Impact
Although gynecomastia doesn’t pose a physical health risk, it significantly affects the emotional and mental well-being of boys and young men dealing with the condition.
In April 2013, Dr. Brian I. Labow and his team from Boston Children’s Hospital tested 47 teenage boys with gynecomastia and compared them to a group without the condition. As a result, boys with gynecomastia scored lower in general health, social interactions, self-esteem, mental well-being, and eating habits.
These impacts were similar among all subjects, no matter how severe their gynecomastia was. This shows that just having the condition can lead to significant emotional stress.
Furthermore, those requiring breast reduction surgery often endure severe physical pain and emotional strain. The surgery’s complications may involve visible scarring, blood clots, infections, reactions to anesthesia, irregular breast shape, and nerve damage.
What About the Treatment?
Below are there options for individuals who experiment with gynecomastia due to Risperdal use!
1. Breast Reduction Surgery
This common procedure is called reduction mammaplasty. It works by eliminating extra fat and glandular tissue to restore a more masculine appearance to the chest. Suitable candidates are emotionally and physically stable, within a healthy weight range, possess good skin elasticity, and are over 18 years old.
2. Liposuction
Another Risperdal female breast treatment is liposuction. This method removes surplus fat and/or glandular tissue through small incisions on each side of the chest. As a result, it creates a more natural chest contour.
3. Tissue Excision
Surgical tissue excision may be necessary in severe cases or when there’s stretched or sagging skin. This procedure allows the surgeon to eliminate more glandular tissue and/or skin that cannot be removed by liposuction alone.
Furthermore, the incisions’ location and length can vary based on the required extent of surgery but generally surround the areola’s edge or within the chest’s natural creases.
Why Should You Be Aware of Risperdal Female Breast in Men?
As explained throughout the post, you see that there was a significant risk of Risperdal female breast development in men. While the medicine is beneficial to treat certain mental health issues, patients or their caretakers and companions should stay informed about the medication the patients are taking.
For some, the side effects might not disturb them, but still, it can be bothersome for others, even impacting their mental condition as well. Hence, if you’re worried about its impact, talk to your doctor for guidance.
Furthermore, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice and consult them first before making changes to your medication. Hence, keep yourself informed and discuss any concerns with your doctor to manage your health effectively!
