Kava Lawsuit | Latest Updates

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is warning that kava kava, a root contained in many popular herbal supplements, has been linked to serious side effects including hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver failure.
Award Logos
C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
Complimentary Private Legal Consultation
Should you or someone close to you suffer injuries, it’s imperative to reach out to our attorneys without delay. You might be eligible for financial restitution through a Kava Lawsuit, and our team is ready to assist. For a No-Cost Private Case Review, please click the following button or contact us anytime 24/7 by calling (866) 588-0600.

Start My Free Case Review

Kava Lawsuit Overview

Kava lawsuits involve allegations that kava supplements have caused serious liver damage to consumers. The primary allegations against manufacturers include selling potentially adulterated substances which, when combined, can increase the risk of negative side effects including liver damage and even death. The FDA has issued warnings about kava products since 2002, finding more than 25 reports in other countries regarding adverse liver effects.

Latest Kava Lawsuit Updates

April 2023 – A

class action lawsuit was filed against Botanic Tonics by a man who claimed that the company’s Feel Free Wellness Tonic, a drink that contained kava, caused him to relapse into alcohol after 7 years of sobriety. The lawsuit alleges that the drink contains a powerful ingredient that has similar effects on the brain to opioids. The case is ROMULO TORRES vs. BOTANIC TONICS, LLC; 7-ELEVEN, INC. Case No. 3:23-cv-01460 in the UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT NORTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA.March 2002 – The FDA issued a warning stating that kava products had been linked to adverse effects on the liver. The agency found more than 25 reports in other countries regarding liver effects including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure [1]. These reports prompted regulatory efforts in Germany, Switzerland, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Kava Injuries & Side Effects

Kava has been linked to serious side effects affecting multiple body systems, particularly the liver.

  • Liver Damage: Liver disease, liver failure, hepatitis, cirrhosis
  • Neurological Issues: Muscle weakness, tremors, ataxia, dystonia
  • Respiratory Problems: Reduced breathing
  • Skin Conditions: Yellowing skin that becomes scaly (with long-term use)
  • Severe Consequences: Death

Do You Qualify for a Kava Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a kava lawsuit if:

  • You used kava supplements or products
  • You experienced serious side effects including liver damage, hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver failure
  • The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
  • You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to kava use

Evidence Required for a kava Lawsuit

  • Medical documentation of your liver damage or other kava-related injuries
  • Proof of kava product purchase or use
  • Medical records establishing a timeline between kava use and onset of symptoms

Damages You Can Recover

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering

Statute of Limitations for Kava Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for product liability cases like kava lawsuits varies by state and depends on the date of injury or from when you discovered (or should have reasonably discovered) that kava caused your injury. Some states may also have a “statute of repose” that sets an absolute deadline regardless of when you discovered the injury.Related Article:

FAQs

1. What is Kava?

Kava or kava kava is a crop derived from the Piper methysticum plant, which is indigenous to the Pacific Islands. Powdered and gel capsule forms of the substance are sold by GNC and other vitamin retailers in the U.S. The sedative effects of kava have been used to treat anxiety, stress, ADHD, epilepsy, depression, psychosis, and migraine headaches.

2. Should I take Kava?

Even though kava is legal in the U.S., the FDA warns not to use it if you have liver problems or are taking medications that affect your liver. Additionally, kava may interact with drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

3. What was the FDA warning on Kava?

The FDA in March 2002 issued a warning which stated that kava products had been linked to adverse effects on the liver. The agency found more than 25 reports in other countries regarding liver effects including hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver failure.

4. Can I file a lawsuit if I suffered liver damage after using kava?

Yes, if you suffered liver damage or other serious health issues after using kava, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. A lawyer who specializes in product liability or personal injury can help you explore your legal options and seek compensation for your damages.

5. What compensation might be available in a kava lawsuit?

Compensation in a kava lawsuit may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in cases of severe injury, compensation for long-term care or permanent disability. The amount of compensation will depend on the specifics of your case.

6. How can I prove that kava caused my liver damage?

Proving that kava caused your liver damage typically involves providing medical records, expert testimony, and evidence of your kava use. A lawyer can help gather and present the necessary documentation to support your claim.See all related dietary supplement lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.

Choose our lawyers

Have you or a loved one been harmed by the side effects of a dietary supplement?

Time is limited to pursue legal action for kava-related injuries. You must act within the statute of limitations from the date of your injury.The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

  • Free, confidential consultations
  • No upfront costs or fees
  • Payment only if we win your case

If you or a loved one was injured by kava side effects, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.Start Your Free Case Review NowReference:

  1. https://ods.od.nih.gov/HealthInformation/kava.aspx

Get a Free Case Review

You may be entitled to financial compensation.
Secure Submission