Millions of families across the country are suffering due to opioid addiction. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 130 people die every day from an opioid overdose. Some public health experts believe that opioids will kill another 500,000 people in the next decade.
Improper Marketing
The manufacturers and distributors of opioids such as OxyContin and Percocet have repeatedly downplayed the extremely addictive nature of their product. These products, which were originally intended to treat acute pain, were marketed as pain relief for chronic pain such as arthritis. These drugs should never have been prescribed on a long-term basis. Drug companies used illegal marketing strategies and inadequate warnings to reap profits off the increased sale of their dangerous drugs.
Purdue Pharma Settlement
A number of state and local governments filed suit against Purdue Pharma, maker of the opioid drug OxyContin, alleging that the company caused a public nuisance and resulted in governments losing billions of dollars due to the opioid crisis. The goal of the lawsuits is to stop the spread of the opioid crisis and hold manufacturers and distributors responsible. In September, Purdue Pharma agreed to a preliminary settlement that many believe does not go far enough. The Sacklers, the family who owns Purdue Pharma, has agreed to relinquish control of the company and to pay $3 billion over the course of several years. In addition, future revenue from the sale of OxyContin would go into a trust designed to help communities struggling with the opioid epidemic.
Know Your Rights
If you or your child has an opioid addiction, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your damages. Opioid addiction can have a devastating effect on someone’s life, causing them to lose wages and suffer medically. Some who suffer from addiction have even encountered the criminal justice system as a result of their addiction. These individuals deserve compensation for what they have lost. Mass tort lawsuits are the most effective way to hold drug manufacturers and distributors responsible for their actions.
Contact an Experienced Product Liability Attorney
If your child has suffered as a result of opioid addiction, you should consult with an experienced attorney to explore your options. At Gregg M. Goldfarb, LLP, we have the experience you need and are available to evaluate your case for free. Contact us online or call us at (305) 374-7000 to schedule an appointment.