When it comes to drug litigation, companies that manufacture and distribute medication are taken to court for different reasons. Sometimes, dangerous drugs are introduced into the market without a clear understanding of the consequences of taking the medication. In other instances, some drugs are promoted in order to maximize profits while downplaying the risks. For example, the opioid crisis is a massive problem in Texas and across the U.S. and many drug companies have played a role in this deadly problem.
Sadly, many people are struggling with debilitating addictions due to the opioid epidemic and a lot of users have passed away. Often, these problems begin with a a doctor’s prescription and a manufacturer’s inability or refusal to clearly state the risks.
Reviewing the legal response to the opioid pandemic
According to the Attorney General of Texas’ website, the state is taking steps to curb the opioid pandemic in Texas by raising awareness and pursuing legal action against drug companies that manufacture and distribute dangerous opioid painkillers. In 2017, Texas joined many other states to investigate drug companies that make or distribute opioid painkillers that are highly addictive. In 2018, the state of Texas filed suit against a drug company over allegations of deceptive trade practices and failing to properly represent the risk of the popular painkiller they distributed to doctors.
Reviewing the consequences of the opioid pandemic
Between 1999 and 2015, statistics show that 300,000 people lost their lives as a result of the abuse of opioid drugs. During 2016 alone, more than 42,000 people died in the U.S., over 1,300 of which occurred in Texas.
