Risperdal, Invega & Zyprexa Breast Cancer Lawsuit

An increasing number of lawsuits are being filed nationwide amid concerns that link the drugs Risperdal (the brand name of Risperidone), Invega (Paliperidone), and (Olanzapine) and breast cancer. These three are antipsychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. However, some studies have suggested a link between taking the drugs and an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Other side effects, like abnormal breast tissue growth in male patients, have also been linked to these drugs. Lawyers are currently filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of these medicines, alleging that patients and their families were not sufficiently warned about the cancer risk.

Over recent years, several studies conducted globally have linked Risperdal, Invega & Zyprexa to an elevated risk of breast cancer. The studies had different focuses and conclusions, yet they all point to the possibility of the medications causing serious harm. For example, Risperdal and Invega are linked to producing extreme levels of prolactin, which may cause breast cancer. Zyprexa breast cancer may be caused by hormonal imbalances.

The upshot in 2025 is that we have seen an emerging number of lawsuits against manufacturers like Janssen Pharmaceuticals (Invega and Risperdal) and Eli Lilly and Cheplapharm (Zyprexa). The lawsuits are at an early stage, and lawyers are currently asking for more people to come forward to gauge the extent of the issue. These new breast cancer lawsuits linked to antipsychotic drugs come after Johnson & Johnson was forced to pay massive cash settlements for other issues caused by Risperdal. In 2021, it paid $800 million to settle cases that alleged Risperdal caused gynecomastia (abnormal breast tissue growth).

Risperdal is the brand name for risperidone. It’s a class of drug known as an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and related mental disorders. Risperdal works by altering chemicals like serotonin and dopamine in the brain, altering mood, behavior, and perception. The drug is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. It is usually taken orally.

Zyprexa is the brand name for olanzapine. It is another example of an atypical antipsychotic drug, and it is also targets changes in dopamine and serotonin, but it works in a slightly different way than Risperdal. It was originally manufactured by Eli Lilly, but it was acquired by Cheplapharm in 2023.

Invega is the active metabolite of risperidone. Essentially, this means Invega is what risperidone breaks down into when in the body. It works in a similar way to Risperdal, but it is often administered through injections – known as depot injections – that slowly release the drug into the body over time. Invega is also manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

Numerous potential side effects of Risperdal have been reported, some of which have led to lawsuits and multi-million-dollar compensation payments from Johnson & Johnson. These include a wave of lawsuits in the 2010s, which saw Johnson & Johnson pay major settlements to males (men and boys) who developed gynecomastia after taking Risperdal. Gynecomastia is a condition that causes breast tissue growth in males. It often requires corrective surgery. Risperdal also has an FDA Black Box warning that states it could cause death in elderly patients with dementia.

Common side effects of Risperdal include:

• Drowsiness & fatigue
• Skin rash
• Aggressive behavior
• Weight gain
• Increased appetite
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Nasal congestion
• Constipation
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Insomnia
• Urination problems

There have been other reported Risperdal side effects, including impact on libido (sex drive), hormonal and menstrual imbalances, dizziness, fainting, high blood pressure, and diabetes risk.

Many of the reported side effects of Zyprexa are similar to those of Risperdal. However, there are some important differences. Zyprexa can have a major impact on metabolic changes, impacting issues like weight gain, blood sugar (increasing risk of diabetes), blood pressure, and cholesterol.

Common side effects of Zyprexa include:

• Drowsiness
• Blurred vision
• Rapid weight gain
• Increased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Stiffness
• Constipation
• Restlessness/agitation
• Tremors/ shaking

Invega side effects can include many of the issues listed above, especially those linked to high levels of prolactin in the body. Common side effects of Invega include:

• Drowsiness/fatigue
• Headaches
• Bladder pain
• Chills
• Cough
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance
• Weight gain
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
• Restlessness (akathisia)
• Tremors or shaking
• Extrapyramidal symptoms (muscle stiffness, slowed movement)
• Insomnia
• Anxiety

Several major global studies have linked Risperdal, Invega, Zyprexa, and similar antipsychotic drugs to a higher risk of cancer, notably breast cancer. These include a major study of approximately 540,000 women in the United States, which found a 62% increased risk of breast cancer of some antipsychotic drugs. One of the key elements in the findings was the cancer risk of high prolactin levels. Prolactin is a natural hormone produced by the pituitary gland, but some of these drugs can cause the body to produce too much, sometimes leading to a condition known as Hyperprolactinemia. This can cause issues like gynecomastia (abnormal growth of breast tissue) and a potential risk of breast cancer. All three of the drugs in the breast cancer lawsuits can potentially raise levels of prolactin, although Risperdal and Invega are associated with higher prolactin levels. Nonetheless, Zyprexa can be a driver of high prolactin levels, especially with higher doses over time, and there are other possible cancer risks of Zyprexa, including those related to metabolic dysfunction.

The antipsychotic drug breast cancer lawsuits are currently active and in the early stages of entering the court system. At this stage, we do not know how much the Risperdal, Invega or Zyprexa lawsuit settlements would amount to, nor if the manufacturers will choose to settle out of court. We do know that companies like Johnson & Johnson have agreed to pay vast amounts in compensation for Risperdal problems in the past. If it is established that the companies failed to warn properly about the cancer risks of these drugs, claimants can expect significant payouts.

If you want to find out more about eligibility to join the Risperdal, Zyprexa and Invega lawsuits, take our free case evaluation to see if you can apply. Law firms are asking for people to come forward who have used one of these drugs for a prolonged period (often two years or more), who have used the drug in the last ten years, and who have developed breast cancer afterward.

Why was Risperdal taken off the market?

Risperdal has not been taken off the market as of 2025. However, there have been several major safety concerns associated with taking the drug.

What are the bad side effects of Risperdal?

There have been reports of numerous serious side effects of taking Risperdal. These include gynecomastia and, potentially, breast cancer. The drug has an FDA Black Box warning.

Is Invega a high-risk medication?

Yes. All antipsychotic drugs are considered high-risk and can lead to many serious side effects. Invega has been linked to causing breast cancer.

What are the permanent side effects of Invega?

Invega can cause numerous long-term side effects, including but not limited to Type 2 diabetes, gynecomastia, menstrual irregularities, weight gain, bone density loss, and metabolic syndrome.

What is the lawsuit against Eli Lilly Zyprexa?

Zyprexa is no longer produced by Eli Lilly, having been acquired by Cheplapharm in 2023. Both companies may be liable in the ongoing lawsuits over the links between Zyprexa and breast cancer.

What are the long-term effects of Zyprexa?

Some of the long-term effects of Zyprexa may include significant weight gain, metabolic syndrome, hormone changes, mood swings, bone density reduction, and the possible risk of breast cancer.

Does risperidone increase risk of breast cancer?

Several studies have suggested a link between risperidone (the generic form of Risperdal) and an elevated risk of breast cancer.

Is gynecomastia from Risperdal reversible?

Gynecomastia can be reversible, but it depends on several factors. In some cases, it may require corrective surgery and may leave long-lasting effects like scarring.

Has the Risperdal lawsuit been settled?

Lawsuits for Risperdal and gynecomastia have been settled in the recent past by Johnson & Johnson, including a final $800 million payment to settle the majority of outstanding cases. The lawsuits for Risperdal and breast cancer are ongoing. Lawyers are asking for more people who have been impacted to come forward.

Are antipsychotics linked to breast cancer?
Yes.  Several studies have found a link between Risperdal, Invega & Zyprexa and increased risk of breast cancer. However, more research is needed to fortify the evidence.