Over 1,300 Paraquat Lawsuits Filed for Parkinson’s Disease: Urgent Action Required! 2025

If you or a loved one has been exposed to the widely-used herbicide Paraquat, you need to know that recent studies have linked it to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, kidney disease, cognitive impairment, and other serious side effects.

With over 1,300 Paraquat lawsuits filed and recent settlements reaching significant amounts, now is the time to take action.

Our legal team is ready to assist you in navigating this complex situation. We offer Fast-Track Claims to expedite your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Don’t wait any longer. Contact us today for a Free Case Review Within 24 Hours. We are here to help you understand your rights and explore your options for pursuing justice against those responsible for your exposure to Paraquat.

Update: Syngenta Internal Docs Reveal Tactics to Mislead Regulators re. Paraquat Health Risks

What is the Herbicide Paraquat?

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2023 notice, paraquat dichloride is classified as a “restricted-use pesticide,” which means a chemical agent that is not allowed to be used recreationally [2].

The toxic herbicide can only be used commercially by licensed applicators.

Paraquat is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, which prevents the growth of weeds and grass near crops on large and small commercial farms, estates, plantations, and orchards.

Sold under the brand names Gramoxone and Ortho Paraquat, the chemical is a common alternative for weeds that have become resistant to glyphosate, an ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup weed killer.

How Does it Work?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study from 2018, Paraquat works by inhibiting photosynthesis [3].

In light-exposed plants, it accepts electrons from photosystem I and transfers them to molecular oxygen. In this manner, destructive reactive oxygen species are produced.

The formation of reactive oxygen species destroys the plant organelles and causes cell death.

What’s The Problem with Paraquat Exposure?

Paraquat is a restricted-use toxic herbicide, which means that only licensed, trained applicators can use it, and it’s not licensed for home use.

As specified in the National Institute of Health study from 2022, people affected by exposure have an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease in commercial agriculture or living near commercial farms [4].

The most deadly form of exposure happens if people eat or drink it. Such exposure also happens through the skin or by inhaling it.

Repeated exposure to smaller amounts that can result in an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease or other health risks occurs over years of working with or near the herbicide, according to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.

This includes mixing, spraying, loading, or cleaning.

How Could I Develop Parkinson’s Disease After Being Exposed?

You could be exposed to Paraquat in the following ways:

• Ingestion (most common)
• Occupational exposure
• Prolonged skin exposure
• Inhalation
• Accidental exposure

After Paraquat is absorbed inside the body, the herbicide is concentrated inside many cells and undergoes redox cycling, leading to cell damage.

Over time, these processes lead to multi-organ failure (lungs, kidneys, liver & heart).

Symptoms of Paraquat Exposure

• Shortness of breath
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Mucosal lesions of the mouth and tongue
• Dermatitis
• Hypotension
• Tachypnoea
• Hypoxia
• Dehydration

How To Test For Paraquat Exposure

• Urine test
• Chest x-ray
• ABG scan
• Renal profile
• Live function test
• Others

Uncovering the Paraquat-Parkinson’s Connection

The link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease has been the focus of extensive research, revealing alarming associations between this toxic herbicide and the development of the neurological disorder. Understanding Parkinson’s disease is essential to grasp the gravity of these findings and their implications.

What Is Parkinson’s?

According to the Mayo Clinic research published in 2023, Parkinson’s disease is a central nervous system disorder (CNS) that affects movement, often including tremors [5].

The onset of symptoms occurs gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Tremors are common, but the disorder also causes stiffness or slowing of movement.

Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms

Treatment

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, Parkinson’s disease can’t be cured. Prescription medications can significantly improve your symptoms [7]. In severe cases, surgery to regulate certain regions of the brain and improve symptoms may be required.

Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Timeline

The connection between Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease has become increasingly clear over decades of research and legal scrutiny.

The following timeline highlights major milestones that have shaped our understanding of Paraquat’s health impacts and the resulting legal actions:

• 1980s:
  Initial studies link Paraquat to Parkinson’s disease, showing that the chemical MPTP destroys dopamine neurons similarly to those affected in Parkinson’s patients.
• 1997:
  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services identifies exposure during mixing, loading, and application as the primary route of Paraquat exposure. The EPA warns about oxidative stress risks for those living near farms using Paraquat [8].
• 2009:
  A CDC study reveals a 75% increased risk of Parkinson’s disease for individuals exposed to Paraquat within 1,600 feet of their homes [9].
• 2011:
  Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives highlights Paraquat as a significant health concern linked to Parkinson’s disease [10].
• 2014:
  Five case-control studies show that agricultural workers using Paraquat have twice the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease compared to the general population [11].
• 2016:
  The EPA announces it will re-evaluate Paraquat, focusing on its potential link to Parkinson’s disease.
• 2017:
  Advocacy groups urge the EPA to deny Paraquat’s re-registration. Lawsuits are filed against Syngenta Crop Protection and others on behalf of farmers and workers who developed Parkinson’s after Paraquat exposure [12].
• 2021:
  A U.S. District Judge coordinates pretrial proceedings for Paraquat lawsuits. At least 150 lawsuits are filed against manufacturers.
• 2024:
  Paraquat lawsuits surpasses 1,300, reflecting the urgency of addressing its health impacts.

Exposure Risks to Paraquat

Primary Groups at Risk

1. Commercial Agricultural Workers: Workers who apply or handle Paraquat during their job duties face the highest risk of exposure.
2. Licensed Applicators: Professionals certified to use pesticides may encounter significant exposure during application processes.
3. Farm Residents: Individuals living on or near farms where Paraquat is used may be exposed through drift or runoff.
4. Nearby Property Owners: Homeowners close to agricultural fields using Paraquat may be affected by aerial spraying or ground application methods.

Self-poisoning with herbicides like Paraquat dichloride is a major problem in developing countries.

According to a 2006 study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, an estimated 300,000 deaths occur each year in the Asia-Pacific region due to self-poisoning [13].

Is Paraquat Banned in the United States?

Paraquat is not banned in the U.S., but it is restricted to licensed applicators. Due to its link to Parkinson’s disease and other severe health effects, some lawmakers and activists have fought to get Paraquat banned.

The Protect America’s Children from Toxic Pesticides Act of 2020 [14] cites that Paraquat “causes heart failure, kidney failure, liver failure, lung scarring, and damage to brain cells; and greatly increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.”

The Protect Against Paraquat Act of 2019 was introduced to require the EPA to cancel the registration for all uses of paraquat, to ban paraquat residue on food, and to prohibit the sale and use of existing paraquat stock [15] .

To date, legislation to ban Paraquat has not been successful.

Unveiling the Truth About Pesticides: Paraquat Papers and Regulatory Challenges

The hidden dangers of Paraquat and other harmful pesticides have been the subject of intense scrutiny and legal battles. These revelations highlight the ongoing fight for public health and environmental safety, from exposing corporate misdeeds to challenging regulatory decisions.

The Paraquat Papers: Corporate Cover-Ups Revealed

In March 2021, Greenpeace published “The Paraquat Papers,” uncovering attempts by Syngenta and Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) to conceal the health risks of Gramoxone, a Paraquat-based product [16].

• Misleading Claims: ICI claimed the emetic PP796 was added to Gramoxone to prevent fatal poisonings, but internal documents revealed the additive was ineffective, and the company knew this.
• Data Manipulation: A former toxicologist allegedly manipulated sensitivity data, misleading the company into believing humans were more resistant to Paraquat poisoning than they actually were.
• Ignored Warnings: Toxicologist David Heylings repeatedly warned ICI about the emetic’s inadequacy and advised increasing PP796 doses to save lives, but his concerns were dismissed.

The revelations suggest a deliberate effort to misrepresent safety measures to keep Gramoxone on the market, with consequences for global pesticide standards.

EPA Sued Over Clearance of Harmful Pesticides

In a separate controversy, five public interest groups filed a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for re-approving atrazine, a pesticide linked to severe environmental and health risks [17].

• Allegations Against Atrazine: The suit claims atrazine causes reproductive harm in aquatic life, birth defects, and cancer in humans.
• Other Pesticides in Question: The EPA’s expedited approvals also included harmful chemicals like Paraquat, dicamba, and 1,3-D, raising further concerns.
• Lawsuit Details:
  • Plaintiffs: Rural Coalition, Pesticide Action Network North America, Beyond Pesticides, Center for Biological Diversity, and Center for Food Safety
  • Defendants: United States Environmental Protection Agency and former Administrator Andrew Wheeler
  • Case: U.S. Federal Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Case No. 20-73220

These legal actions highlight the ongoing tension between public interest groups and regulatory agencies over pesticide safety and transparency.

How Do I Prove I Was Exposed to Paraquat?

Paraquat exposure may be easier to prove in some cases than in others.

For instance, if you’ve worked on an industrial farm in the past, you may already be familiar with the pesticides you were exposed to.

But if you just happened to live near a commercial farm, you may be completely unaware of what toxic chemicals you’ve inadvertently been exposed to.

This is where a paraquat law firm with a proven track record can help.

If you’ve lived near an industrial farm or worked on one and have since been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a paraquat attorney may be able to help you prove your case.

How Do I Prove That Paraquat Caused My Parkinson’s Disease?

The evidence supporting the claim that paraquat causes Parkinson’s disease is very strong, as studies have revealed.

However, it can be challenging for a Paraquat Lawsuit lawyer to prove that Parkinson’s disease was caused by exposure to paraquat, which is why you and your legal team must gather as much evidence as possible — as quickly as possible.

Evidence That May Be Used in a Paraquat Parkinson’s Disease Lawsuit Includes:

• Licensure records for the paraquat applicator
• Herbicide application records obtained from the farm
• Purchase receipts for paraquat-containing herbicides
• Photos documenting paraquat application or products
• Eyewitness testimony
• Expert testimony by scientists and others

Paraquat Parkinson’s Lawsuit Updates August 2022

The federal Paraquat class-action lawsuit continues to grow as one of the most significant mass tort MDLs in the United States.

Over the past two months, more than 150 new cases have been filed, bringing the total number of plaintiffs to over 1,300. Since early 2022, the MDL has maintained a consistent influx of 120+ new cases per month, a steadiness rarely seen in other mass tort litigations.

Chief Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel is advancing the litigation toward the first Paraquat herbicide trials, with bellwether trials expected later this year. Recent updates highlight progress in fact discovery and preparations for these trials.

• August 2022:
  • The MDL reached over 1,300 plaintiffs, with no significant fluctuations in monthly case filings.
  • Trials remain on track despite a slight extension for fact discovery and medical examinations in the six bellwether cases.
• July 2022:
  • July 25 Deadline: The fact discovery phase for six bellwether trials concluded after more fact witnesses were identified than initially expected.
  • The MDL added 142 new cases in July, bringing the total to 1,292 pending cases.
• June 2022:
  • June 9: A Second Amended Discovery Schedule was issued, extending deadlines for fact discovery to July 25, ensuring trials remain on schedule.

The steady growth of the Paraquat MDL class action lawsuit reflects the widespread nature of claims linking Paraquat exposure to Parkinson’s disease. Many cases allege Syngenta and Chevron failed to warn about the risks of chronic exposure to the herbicide.

Key Updates from Earlier in 2022

• May 2022:
  • Record filings: 57 new cases were added in one week, with over 1,150 plaintiffs by mid-May.
  • The Supreme Court ruled against Bayer’s FIFRA preemption argument, setting a precedent likely to impact Syngenta and Chevron’s legal strategies.
• April 2022:
  • April 19: The MDL reached 982 cases, while Paraquat was banned in Fiji.
  • Bellwether Selection: Six cases were selected for trials set for November 2022.
• March 2022:
  • The MDL reached 688 cases by March 1, with 75 cases pending in state courts.
  • Discovery was completed in 16 bellwether cases.

Bellwether Trials: Key Progress

The bellwether trial process has been a critical focus in 2022. Six cases were selected from 16 samples, with discovery completed in July 2022. These trials will set the tone for future litigation and influence settlement negotiations.

Legal Challenges and Questions

• Will Syngenta and Chevron offer reasonable settlements or rely on jury decisions?
• How will the outcomes of the bellwether trials affect the overall trajectory of the MDL?

Most of the chronic Paraquat exposure alleged by the plaintiffs occurred decades ago. The lawsuits name Syngenta and Chevron as defendants and assert similar causes of action based primarily on failure to warn.

Why Should I File a Paraquat Lawsuit?

There are many reasons to file Paraquat lawsuits if you’re suffering as a result of being exposed to Paraquat.

If you file a Paraquat lawsuit, it can help you:

• Secure a Paraquat lawsuit settlement to cover medical bills and other expenses
• Hold the companies that exposed you to paraquat responsible
• Spread awareness of the dangers associated with paraquat, which helps others at risk

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after working on or living near a commercial farm, you may be eligible for a paraquat settlement.

What Compensation Could I Be Awarded?

When pursuing a lawsuit related to Paraquat exposure, compensation can be categorized into several key areas. Each category reflects the types of damages that may be claimed, depending on the individual circumstances of the case.

Medical Expenses

• Past Medical Expenses: Costs incurred for treatments, hospital stays, medications, and therapies related to the diagnosis and management of health conditions caused by Paraquat exposure.
• Future Medical Expenses: Estimated costs for ongoing or future medical care that may be necessary due to long-term effects of exposure.

Lost Income & Earning Capacity

• Lost Income: Compensation for wages lost due to time off work for medical treatment or recovery.
• Earning Capacity: Damages were awarded for the reduced ability to earn a living in the future due to health complications related to Paraquat exposure.

Pain & Suffering

• Physical Pain: Compensation for the physical discomfort and pain experienced as a result of medical conditions linked to Paraquat.
• Emotional Distress: Damages for mental anguish, anxiety, depression, or emotional trauma resulting from the diagnosis and its impact on life.

Care Costs

• Home Health Care: Expenses for in-home care services required due to illness or disability caused by Paraquat exposure.
• Assisted Living Costs: Costs associated with moving into a facility that provides assistance with daily activities if necessary due to health deterioration.

Punitive Damages

• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions are found to be particularly harmful or egregious. These damages aim to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Although the exact compensation can never be predicted before a case settles, and there are never any guarantees, individuals in similar cases involving toxic chemicals have recovered substantial amounts for their damages.

Settlements In Paraquat Lawsuits and in Similar Cases

Settlements in Paraquat lawsuits are shaping up to align closely with payouts in other high-profile mass tort cases, such as Roundup. Understanding the average settlement range and factors that influence these payouts can provide clarity for those pursuing claims.

Average Settlement Range

Paraquat lawsuit settlements are expected to average between $100,000 and $150,000. These amounts vary depending on the specifics of each case, including the severity of the plaintiff’s Parkinson’s disease, the duration of exposure, and the financial losses incurred.

Legal experts believe these figures are comparable to other large-scale litigations involving chemical exposure and health risks.

Factors Affecting Settlement Amount

Several factors influence the settlement amount in a Paraquat lawsuit:

• The duration of exposure to Paraquat is a key factor, with prolonged exposure generally strengthening the claim.
• The severity of Parkinson’s disease also plays a significant role, as advanced stages or severe health deterioration may lead to higher payouts.
• Medical expenses incurred for treatment, medication, and long-term care add weight to the settlement value.
• Lost wages due to the inability to work significantly impact the payout amount.

Comparison to Roundup Settlements

Roundup settlements set a significant benchmark for mass tort cases, offering insights into how Paraquat settlements may unfold.

Bayer, the manufacturer of Roundup, paid over $10 billion to resolve more than 120,000 claims alleging that the product caused non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and other cancers.

These settlements covered a broad spectrum of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Some jury verdicts initially awarded over $2.3 billion in damages, although these amounts were later reduced on appeal.

Paraquat settlements, while slightly lower on average, follow a similar trajectory in terms of payouts. Plaintiffs with strong evidence of exposure and severe health impacts can expect amounts that reflect the scale of their suffering and losses.

Clear Case Strength Indicators

Cases with the following characteristics are considered strong:

• Documented exposure to Paraquat, particularly through agricultural work
• A confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease by a medical professional
• A clear timeline linking exposure to the development of the disease
• Comprehensive medical records to support claims
• Filing within the statute of limitations

Is There a Statute of Limitations on Paraquat Lawsuits?

The statute of limitations on Paraquat cancer exposure cases varies by state; however, in most U.S. states, plaintiffs must file a personal injury claim within 2 to 3 years of the date of injury. There may be some exceptions.

If you miss the statute of limitations deadline in your state, you may be barred from filing a paraquat lawsuit. This makes it even more important that you immediately speak with an experienced Paraquat lawyer who can determine your eligibility, evaluate the relevant statute of limitations, and advise you on how to file a Paraquat claim.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits that we’ve covered.

FAQs

Who Can File a Paraquat Lawsuit?

Individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or other health issues after exposure to Paraquat may be eligible to file a lawsuit. This includes agricultural workers and residents living near treated areas.

What Compensation Can I Receive From a Paraquat Lawsuit?

You may receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to health complications caused by Paraquat exposure.

How Do I Prove Exposure to Paraquat in My Lawsuit?

You can prove your exposure to Paraquat by providing evidence such as medical records, employment history, witness testimony, and expert analysis linking health issues to Paraquat exposure. An experienced attorney can assist with gathering the necessary documentation.

Does Paraquat Contain Roundup?

Roundup does not contain paraquat; however, commercial agricultural workers may use both types of herbicide. As more weeds become resistant to Roundup, farmers often turn to Paraquat. Paraquat is considered many times more toxic than Roundup, but its main ingredient, glyphosate, is linked to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The EPA hasn’t restricted Roundup use to applicators; it is available for homeowner use.

Get a Free Paraquat Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in federal lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Parkinson’s disease cases in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one developed Parkinson’s disease or other serious side effects after being exposed to Paraquat herbicide, you should contact a Paraquat Lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to a Paraquat settlement by filing a suit and a Paraquat Lawyer can help.

References:

1. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/ohat/parkinson/parkinsons_protocol_508.pdf
2. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
3. https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/ehp.1002839#t1
4. https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-019-0488-0
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parkinsons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20376055
6. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8525-parkinsons-disease-an-overview
7. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/parkinsons-disease/parkinsons-treatment-options
8. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/ohat/parkinson/parkinsons_protocol_508.pdf
9. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
10. https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/ehp.1002839#t1
11. https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-019-0488-0
12. https://files.michaeljfox.org/Paraquat_letter_FINAL.pdf
13. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
14. https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3283
15. https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3817/committees
16. https://unearthed.greenpeace.org/2021/03/24/paraquat-papers-syngenta-toxic-pesticide-gramoxone/
17. https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3817/committees