Who Is Eligible for the Suboxone Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one have been prescribed Suboxone and experienced harmful effects, you may be eligible to participate in the ongoing Suboxone lawsuit against its manufacturers. This case has significant implications for patients, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical accountability. 

To help you make an informed decision, this blog will break down what Suboxone is, the lawsuit surrounding it, eligibility criteria, legal considerations, and how to start the process if you decide to move forward. Don’t wait to get the justice you deserve – contact Lawsuits.com to connect with an attorney today.

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What Is Suboxone?

In 2007, Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals, Inc. —which would later become Indivior Inc.— collaborated with MonoSol Rx, now known as Aquestive Therapeutics, to develop the SUBOXONE® formulation. Suboxone is a prescription medication used primarily to treat opioid dependence. It combines two active ingredients: buprenorphine (a partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (an opioid antagonist). Suboxone is designed to help patients manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce dependency on more potent opioids such as heroin or oxycodone. It is often part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) approach, which combines medication with therapy and support.

While Suboxone has helped many individuals in recovery, it has also led to substantial concerns about its safety, particularly its potential for addiction and other side effects. In January 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a safety communication that required warning labels on products with buprenorphine – like Suboxone – due to the dental problems associated with the medication.

Known Concerns with Suboxone

While Suboxone is designed to aid individuals in overcoming opioid dependency, it is not without its own set of risks and potential side effects. Patients should be aware of these concerns to make informed choices about their treatment.

Administration and Potential for Side Effects

Suboxone is commonly administered as a sublingual tablet or a sublingual film, both dissolved under the tongue for absorption directly into the bloodstream. This delivery method is effective but carries unique implications for health, particularly dental health, as well as the broader side effects associated with medication-assisted treatment.

Addictive Potential

Although intended to reduce dependency on stronger opioids, Suboxone itself is habit-forming. Patients recovering from opioid addiction may find themselves dependent on Suboxone, which can prolong the cycle of medication reliance.

Harmful Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headaches, and insomnia, but more severe effects may occur. For instance, Suboxone has been associated with respiratory depression, liver damage, and significant mental health changes, such as anxiety or depression.

Dental Health Risks

The risk of tooth decay stands out as one of the most significant concerns associated with Suboxone use. Many individuals taking Suboxone have reported serious dental issues, including cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. These problems arise from a combination of factors that affect oral health:

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Suboxone can significantly reduce saliva production. Saliva is essential for oral health as it helps wash away food particles, neutralize acids, and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth. When saliva levels drop, harmful bacteria and plaque can build up, dramatically increasing the risk of cavities and accelerating tooth decay.

Changes in Oral pH

Dissolving Suboxone under the tongue can disrupt the pH levels in the mouth, creating a more acidic environment. This acid exposure can erode the protective enamel on teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay, increased sensitivity, and structural weakness over time.

Prolonged Exposure

Sublingual administration requires the Suboxone film or tablet to remain in the mouth for several minutes while it dissolves. This prolonged contact with the teeth and oral tissues, combined with any acidic or sugary components in the medication's formulation, further amplifies the risk of tooth decay and other oral health concerns.

Non-Medical Issues

Incomplete Warnings

Patients have alleged that manufacturers failed to adequately disclose the risks associated with Suboxone, including its addictiveness and the potential for severe and lasting physical harm, like liver and dental issues. This lack of transparency has left many patients unprepared to mitigate risks effectively.

Market Manipulation

Finally, Suboxone's manufacturer has faced accusations of anti-competitive behavior, such as switching from tablet to film delivery systems to extend patent protections and discourage generic alternatives. These practices have compounded accessibility issues for patients in need.

The Importance of Awareness

Understanding these known concerns helps patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about using Suboxone as part of addiction recovery. Open communication with your doctor, dentist, and legal advisors can help you address and manage these risks. Being informed and aware empowers you to manage treatment challenges effectively while keeping your well-being at the forefront.

What Is the Suboxone Lawsuit?

The Suboxone lawsuit centers on allegations that the manufacturer, Indivior PLC (formerly part of Reckitt Benckiser), engaged in unethical practices related to the drug's promotion, marketing, and distribution.

Key Allegations in the Lawsuit:

False Advertising

Plaintiffs claim the company misrepresented Suboxone’s safety and efficacy, exaggerating its benefits while failing to adequately disclose its risks and addictiveness.

Failure to Warn

The lawsuit alleges that the manufacturer failed to provide proper warnings about Suboxone’s potential harmful effects, including the risk of dependency.

Anti-competitive Behavior

Indivior PLC has also been accused of deliberately manipulating the market to maintain a monopoly on Suboxone products. For example, by switching from a tablet to a film version, they allegedly sought to extend their patent protection and hinder the entry of cheaper generic alternatives.

Legal Status of the Case:

Lawsuits against Suboxone are ongoing, and individuals across the United States have joined in seeking justice. Several settlements have already been reached involving anti-competitive behavior allegations; however, cases related to personal harm and false advertising remain active.

Who Is Eligible to Join the Suboxone Lawsuit?

If you have been harmed by Suboxone, you may qualify to participate in the lawsuit. Determining eligibility depends on several factors:

Individual Use of Suboxone

You must have been prescribed Suboxone within the last several years and have used it as directed by your healthcare provider.

Harmful Side Effects

You must have experienced harmful effects from using Suboxone, including one or more of the following:

• Dependency or addiction to Suboxone
• Severe side effects, such as liver damage, respiratory issues, or significant mental health changes
• Physical or emotional harm stemming from Suboxone use

Evidence of Manufacturer Negligence

Your case must involve claims of inadequate warnings or false advertising about the risks and effects of Suboxone.

Documented Damages

You will need to show evidence of damages suffered due to Suboxone use. This may include medical bills, missed work or wages, emotional distress, or other quantifiable losses.

If you meet these criteria, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney to confirm your eligibility and explore the next steps.

Filing a Suboxone Lawsuit

If you’re eligible to file a Suboxone lawsuit, you need to take several key steps. Don’t worry if this feels overwhelming—legal aid can guide you through the process. Here’s what to expect:

Consult an Attorney

Start by consulting an experienced attorney who specializes in pharmaceutical lawsuits. They will assess your case and determine whether you meet the criteria for a Suboxone lawsuit.

Gather Evidence

Your attorney will collect essential evidence, including your medical records, prescription history, receipts or invoices, and any documented communication with your healthcare provider regarding Suboxone.

File Your Claim

Once your case has been reviewed, your attorney will formally file your claim against Indivior PLC or relevant parties. This can be done individually or as part of a multi-district litigation (MDL) or class action lawsuit.

Engage in the Legal Process

The legal process may involve discovery, depositions, negotiations, and potentially a trial. Your attorney will represent your interests and see that your voice is heard throughout.

Await Resolution

Cases of this nature often take months or even years to resolve, depending on the complexity and number of plaintiffs involved. Your attorney will keep you updated on the progress and outcomes.

Potential Compensation for Eligible Plaintiffs

If your Suboxone lawsuit is successful, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

Medical Expenses

Reimbursement for past and future medical bills related to Suboxone use, such as treatment for side effects or addiction recovery programs.

Lost Wages

Compensation for income lost due to missed work or reduced earning capacity resulting from harm caused by Suboxone.

Pain and Suffering

Financial recognition of the physical or emotional distress caused by using Suboxone, including mental health struggles.

Punitive Damages

Settlement amounts vary based on the severity of harm, the strength of your case, and the court’s evaluation. Factors like medical expenses, lost wages, and legal proceedings all influence the final payout. Understanding how much the Suboxone lawsuit may pay out can help set realistic expectations.

The FDA’s Role

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been instrumental in regulating Suboxone and subsequent legal proceedings. The agency approved Suboxone for opioid dependency treatment, recognizing its potential to reduce harm in a critical public health crisis. 

However, the FDA also examined claims surrounding the transition from tablets to film, assessing the validity of safety concerns raised by Indivior and balancing these against accusations of anti-competitive motives. Regulatory findings have played a central role in shaping the legal framework surrounding the case and its outcomes. The Suboxone lawsuit sheds light on the interplay between the need for innovative treatments and the importance of holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for ethical and lawful practices. 

In addition to the safety communication released in 2022, the FDA had to step in again to see that Suboxone labels were updated to avoid medication abuse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also backed this move by the FDA.

Legal Support 

Handling a pharmaceutical lawsuit is a complex and time consuming process—partner with a knowledgeable attorney to meet all legal requirements and maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Also Read: How Do I Join the Suboxone Lawsuit?

Benefits of Legal Aid:

Expertise

Attorneys specializing in pharmaceutical cases understand the nuances of the law and can advocate effectively on your behalf. Mass lawsuits are complex and require an attorney with experience in multidistrict litigation (MDL). To connect with an attorney, contact Lawsuit.com.

Resources

Legal teams often have access to databases, expert witnesses, and evidence that individuals may not be able to obtain alone. 

Reducing Stress

The legal process may feel daunting. An attorney provides support and guidance, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Your mental health is important, and an attorney can relieve some of the pressure that comes with a legal process. 

Seek A Local Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to Suboxone, remember that you are not alone. The challenges you’re facing are valid, and support is available to help you through this difficult time. Taking legal action isn’t just about seeking compensation—it’s a way to hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for their actions, ensuring transparency and preventing similar harm to others in the future. Your voice can drive meaningful change and protect others from unnecessary suffering.

To take the first step, reach out to a trusted attorney to evaluate your case. Many legal firms offer free initial consultations, allowing you to explore your options without upfront costs. Whether you’re dealing with dental issues, financial strain, or broader health concerns, the right legal and medical professionals can guide you through the process with care and expertise.

Consider connecting with advocacy groups and legal aid organizations dedicated to pharmaceutical accountability for additional information and resources. They provide valuable updates and may offer connections to communities facing similar experiences. Don’t hesitate to take the steps necessary to protect your future and reclaim control. Help is within reach, and it starts with you. 

Contact Lawsuits.com to connect with a local attorney who will fight for you every step of the way – call (888) 984-6195 today!