What is a Class Action Pharmaceutical Lawsuit?

Categories: Prescription Drug Lawsuit

pills spilled in pharmaceutical lawsuit

Class action pharmaceutical lawsuits are legal actions that allow a group of people who have suffered harm after using a defective drug to join together and sue the drug manufacturer. Victims of defective medications can file lawsuits when a drug has caused widespread harm or when the cost of individual lawsuits would be prohibitive. 

In a class action lawsuit, one or more individuals act as representatives for the entire group, which can range in size from a few people to thousands of individuals. 

Here’s a look at the specifics of class action pharmaceutical lawsuits. If you have any questions or believe you suffered harm after taking a defective medication, contact the McEwen Law Firm. Our attorneys have helped clients in cases similar to yours for decades. We’ll work hard to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Give us a call at (800) 732-3070 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Current and Past Class Action Pharmaceutical Lawsuits

There have been many high-profile class action pharmaceutical lawsuits filed in recent years. Some of the most well-known cases include lawsuits against the manufacturers of the painkiller OxyContin, the diabetes drug Actos, and the antidepressant Paxil

In each of these cases, plaintiffs accused the drug manufacturer of selling a defective product that caused harm to patients. Other notable cases include lawsuits against manufacturers of birth control pills, blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and even eye drops.

Common Side Effects of Defective Drugs

Defective drugs can cause a wide range of side effects, some of which can be severe or even life-threatening. Some of the most common side effects of defective drugs include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Allergic reactions
  • Heart problems
  • Liver damage
  • Blindness
  • Kidney damage
  • And even death

In some cases, these side effects may not become apparent until months or even years after a patient has taken the drug. If you experience any side effects after taking medication, speaking with a doctor will be essential. It would be best if you also spoke with an attorney so they can pursue compensation on your behalf.

Understanding Defective Drug Liability

To win a class action pharmaceutical lawsuit, plaintiffs must prove that the drug manufacturer is liable for their injuries. An experienced defective drug lawyer can establish liability c in several ways. 

  • First, the plaintiffs must prove that the drug manufacturer breached its duty to ensure its product was safe. This breach can occur in several ways, such as failing to adequately test the drug, failing to disclose known risks, or improperly marketing the drug. 
  • Second, the plaintiffs must show that the breach was responsible for their injuries. 
  • Third, the plaintiffs must show that they suffered damages due to their injuries.

      How to Prove a Drug Manufacturer is Liable for Your Injuries

      Proving that a drug manufacturer is liable for your injuries can be a complex process. Your attorney must gather evidence to support your case, such as medical records, testimony from medical experts, and internal documents from the drug manufacturer. Your attorney must also demonstrate that the drug caused your injuries, not a pre-existing medical condition.

      In addition, your attorney will need to show that the drug manufacturer acted negligently or intentionally. This means demonstrating that the manufacturer knew or should have known about the potential risks of the drug yet failed to take appropriate action to mitigate those risks. In some cases, a drug manufacturer may also be liable for failing to warn patients about known risks associated with the drug.

      Damages You Can Recover in a Class Action Pharmaceutical Lawsuit

      You may be entitled to damages if you’re successful in a class action pharmaceutical lawsuit. Damages can include compensation for medical expenses, lost salary, pain and suffering, and other losses related to your injuries. 

      In some cases, plaintiffs may be able to obtain punitive damages. Juries sometimes award these damages to punish a drug manufacturer for its wrongful conduct. Punitive damages are often worth a considerable amount of money. However, juries rarely award them.

      In a class action lawsuit, the court typically divides damages among all class members. They do this based on a formula that considers the severity of each member’s injuries. This means that each class member may receive a different amount of compensation, depending on the extent of their injuries.

      How Can a Defective Drug Lawyer Help You?

      If you suffered harm after taking medication, a defective drug lawyer could help you navigate the complex legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer can assist you in gathering evidence, building your case, and negotiating with the drug manufacturer’s attorneys. They can also represent you in court if necessary.

      In addition, a defective drug lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can explain the legal process and answer any questions you may have about your case. Your lawyer can also provide you with guidance on how to protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

      Contact a Recalled Drug Lawyer Today

      If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective drug, you need to contact a recalled drug lawyer as soon as possible. These cases can be complex, and time is of the essence. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner they can begin working on your case and seeking the compensation you deserve.

      When choosing a recalled drug lawyer, it is essential to choose a lawyer with experience in these types of cases. Look for a lawyer with a track record of success in class action pharmaceutical lawsuits and who is willing to fight for your rights. A good lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

      Remember, you have legal rights. A skilled lawyer can help you protect those rights and ensure that justice is served. That’s precisely what you’ll get when you work with the McEwen Law Firm. Use our online contact form or call (800) 732-3070 for a free case review.