Atypical Antipsychotic

Atypical antipsychotics are the newer, second-generation drugs used for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and, in some cases, depression, autism-related irritability, and other conditions. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that they are commonly used because they treat a broader range of symptoms than the older, first-generation drugs. Well-known brand names include Risperdal (risperidone), Abilify (aripiprazole), Seroquel (quetiapine), and Zyprexa (olanzapine).

These drugs can be life-changing for patients, but they also carry known side effects, including weight gain, higher blood sugar, movement disorders, and hormone changes. Several of those side effects became the basis for large waves of lawsuits. The best-known example is Risperdal, where thousands of young men alleged the drug raised prolactin levels and caused breast tissue growth (gynecomastia), and that the manufacturer did not adequately warn about it. Abilify lawsuits alleged that the drug triggered compulsive behaviors such as gambling. The manufacturers denied the claims, and many cases ended in confidential settlements.

Most atypical antipsychotic lawsuits are individual product liability claims, not class actions, because each patient's dose, age, and injury differ. They also often involve off-label use, meaning the drug was prescribed for a condition or age group the FDA had not approved, which can matter for failure to warn and marketing claims.

If you or your child took one of these drugs and developed a serious side effect, gather the prescription history, the dates of diagnosis, and any doctor notes linking the two. Our guide on class actions versus mass torts explains how these cases are usually organized.