Side Effects of Suboxone

Side Effects of Suboxone

If doctors prescribed Singulair (montelukast) to you or a loved one for asthma or allergies, you may have concerns about its potential side effects. Recent reports and studies have shed light on serious issues associated with this medication, leading to increased awareness and legal action.

A network of talented personal injury lawyers is working with people harmed by Singulair. These mass torts attorneys represent people and families harmed by dangerous drugs like Singulair. Reach out so we can connect you to an attorney who can advise you about what you can do.

Brief Overview of Suboxone and Its Uses

Suboxone is a prescription medication used to treat opioid addiction. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist.

The combination is designed to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid dependence while deterring misuse.

Doctors prescribe Suboxone as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs for opioid use disorder. It's intended to be used alongside counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery.

Common Side Effects of Suboxone

While Suboxone can be effective in treating opioid addiction, it's not without risks. Many users experience side effects, ranging from mild discomfort to more severe complications.

Here are some of the most common side effects:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Many Suboxone users report feeling queasy or experiencing bouts of vomiting, especially when first starting the medication. This can be particularly distressing for individuals already dealing with the challenges of addiction recovery.
• Headaches: Persistent headaches are another frequent complaint among Suboxone users. These can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, potentially interfering with daily activities and quality of life.
• Constipation: Opioid-based medications like Suboxone often slow down the digestive system, leading to constipation. This can be uncomfortable and, if prolonged, may lead to more serious digestive issues.
• Drowsiness and Dizziness: Feeling excessively tired or experiencing dizziness is common, particularly when first starting Suboxone or adjusting dosages. This can be dangerous, especially when operating machinery or driving.
• Insomnia: Paradoxically, while some users experience drowsiness, others find that Suboxone disrupts their sleep patterns, leading to insomnia. The resulting fatigue can significantly impact daily functioning and overall well-being.

Serious Side Effects and Risks

Suboxone can also cause severe health issues that have formed the basis for legal action:

• Respiratory Depression: One of the most dangerous potential side effects of Suboxone is respiratory depression. This condition slows breathing to dangerously low levels, potentially leading to oxygen deprivation, coma, or even death. The risk is particularly high when Suboxone is combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
• Liver Damage: Suboxone can cause liver damage, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those who misuse the medication. Symptoms of liver damage may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to Suboxone. These can manifest as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or rash. In extreme cases, allergic reactions can be life-threatening.
• Dependence and Withdrawal: While Suboxone is used to treat opioid dependence, it can itself lead to physical dependence. This means that stopping Suboxone abruptly can result in withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and may include anxiety, insomnia, muscle aches, sweating, and gastrointestinal distress.

Legal Implications of Suboxone Side Effects

The severe side effects of Suboxone have led to numerous legal actions against its manufacturers and prescribers. Here are some key legal considerations:

Manufacturer Liability

Drug manufacturers must ensure their products are safe and warn about potential risks. If a manufacturer fails to adequately disclose known side effects or rushes a drug to market without proper testing, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.

Medical Malpractice Cases

Healthcare providers must follow established standards of care when prescribing and monitoring Suboxone use. If a doctor fails to properly screen patients, neglects to monitor for side effects, or prescribes Suboxone in dangerous combinations with other medications, they may be liable for medical malpractice.

Informed Consent Issues

Patients have the right to make informed decisions about their medical care. This includes being fully informed about the potential risks and side effects of medications like Suboxone. Failure to obtain proper informed consent can be grounds for legal action.

Steps to Take if You Suffered Harm From Taking Suboxone

If you believe taking Suboxone harmed you or a close family member, take prompt action to protect your health and legal rights:

• Seeking Medical Attention: Make your health your top priority. If you're experiencing severe side effects, seek immediate medical care. Even for less severe symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider about your concerns and potential alternative treatments.
• Documenting Side Effects and Medical Care: Keep detailed records of your symptoms, when they started, and how they've progressed. Document all medical visits, treatments, and any communications with healthcare providers related to your Suboxone use and side effects.
• Consulting a Personal Injury Attorney: Given the complex nature of pharmaceutical liability cases, you must work with an attorney with experience in this area. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries.

Recent Lawsuits and Settlements Related to Suboxone

Several lawsuits have been filed against Indivior, the manufacturer of Suboxone, alleging various forms of misconduct. These include claims of anti-competitive practices to maintain a monopoly on opioid addiction treatment, as well as cases focused on the drug's side effects and addictive potential.

Outcomes and Compensation Awarded

While many Suboxone-related cases are still ongoing, there have been significant settlements and judgments:

• In 2019, Indivior agreed to pay $600 million to resolve federal investigations into the marketing of Suboxone.
• Indivior's former parent company, Reckitt Benckiser Group (RB Group), agreed to pay $2.1 billion to resolve claims related to the marketing of Suboxone.
• RB Group and Indivior have also paid tens of millions of dollars in settlements to resolve various claims since 2019. Indivior also reached a $385 million settlement involving an antitrust suit.
• Individual lawsuits have resulted in varied compensation amounts, depending on the specific circumstances and severity of injuries.

These cases demonstrate that courts are taking Suboxone-related claims seriously, and there may be potential for significant compensation for those harmed by the drug.

Frequently Asked Questions About Suboxone Lawsuits

1. How long do I have to file a Suboxone lawsuit?

The time limit, or statute of limitations, varies by state and can depend on the nature of your claim. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any deadlines that could jeopardize your ability to obtain compensation.

2. Can I join a class-action lawsuit against Suboxone manufacturers?

While there have been class-action lawsuits related to Suboxone, many cases are handled as individual personal injury claims. An attorney can advise you on the best approach for your specific situation.

3. What kind of compensation might I receive?

Potential compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. The specific amount depends on the details of your case and the extent of your injuries.

4. Will filing a lawsuit affect my ongoing addiction treatment?

Filing a lawsuit should not directly impact your medical care. However, it's important to discuss any legal actions with your healthcare provider to ensure open communication about your treatment.

5. What if I'm still taking Suboxone? Can I still file a lawsuit?

 Yes, you can still pursue legal action while taking Suboxone. However, you should not stop or change your medication regimen without consulting your doctor.

6. How can I prove that my health issues were caused by Suboxone?

Establishing causation typically requires medical evidence and expert testimony. An experienced attorney can help gather the necessary documentation and consult with appropriate medical experts.

7. Are there any upfront costs to filing a Suboxone lawsuit?

Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only receive attorney fees if they settle your case or secure a favorable court award. You must discuss fee structures during your initial consultation so you know what to expect.

Get In Touch with a Suboxone Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has suffered from serious side effects after taking Suboxone, don’t delay in getting the legal help you need.

At Lawsuits.com, we have a nationwide network of experienced mass torts attorneys who are ready to fight for you. If you qualify, we can put you in contact with a product liability lawyer in your jurisdiction who can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights and interests. 

Don't let the statute of limitations run out on your claim. Contact Lawsuits.com today to take the first step towards justice. Our team is standing by to evaluate your claim and connect you with a local attorney who can help.

Your health, your rights, and your future matter. Let us help you find the representation you need to recover all you’ve lost due to Suboxone side effects.