1. What is Paraquat and how is it related to Gramoxone?

Paraquat dichloride is a highly toxic herbicide used to control weeds and grasses. Gramoxone is the primary brand name under which Paraquat is marketed by Syngenta. The terms are often used interchangeably in lawsuits, with Paraquat being the active chemical compound and Gramoxone being the commercial product containing it.

2. How does Paraquat cause Parkinson's disease?

Scientific research indicates Paraquat can cross the blood-brain barrier and damage dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. This damage mirrors the pathology seen in Parkinson's disease, causing oxidative stress and neuron death that leads to the characteristic motor symptoms of the disease [ 3 ].

3. Who is most at risk for Paraquat exposure?

Those at highest risk include farmers, agricultural workers, herbicide applicators, crop dusters, and individuals living in rural communities where Paraquat is regularly used. Studies show even low-level, long-term exposure can significantly increase Parkinson's disease risk by up to 250%.

4. What is the average settlement amount for Paraquat lawsuits?

While many cases are still pending, legal experts estimate settlement values ranging from $100,000 to $3 million per claim depending on severity of illness, age at diagnosis, extent of exposure, and strength of causation evidence. Some early settlements have reportedly reached the higher end of this range for cases with extensive documentation.

5. Can I file a lawsuit if I was exposed to Paraquat but don't have Parkinson's yet?

Generally, you must have a diagnosed injury to file a claim. However, if you have documented Paraquat exposure and are experiencing early symptoms of neurological damage, an attorney can advise on monitoring your condition and preserving your legal rights should you develop Parkinson's disease in the future.

6. How long does a Paraquat lawsuit take?

Most Paraquat lawsuits take between 1-3 years to resolve, though this timeline varies based on case complexity, court backlogs, and whether a settlement is reached before trial. The MDL process currently underway may potentially expedite some cases through coordinated discovery and settlement discussions.

7. Are family members eligible to file if their loved one died from Parkinson's after Paraquat exposure?

Yes, immediate family members can file wrongful death claims if their loved one died from Parkinson's disease linked to Paraquat exposure. These claims must typically be filed within 1-3 years of the death, depending on state law, and can recover compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship.

8. What sets Paraquat lawsuits apart from other herbicide litigation?

Unlike other herbicide lawsuits that focus primarily on cancer risks, Paraquat litigation centers on its established neurological effects, particularly the development of Parkinson's disease. The scientific evidence linking Paraquat and Parkinson's is considered stronger than many other toxic exposure cases, with multiple peer-reviewed studies supporting the connection.

What Is Paraquat Tongue & Why It Is Dangerous?

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Table Of Contents

What is Paraquat Tongue?
Why is Paraquat Tongue Dangerous?
Paraquat Tongue Symptoms
Can You Survive Drinking Paraquat?
What Should You Do if Someone Ingests Paraquat?
Which Herbicides Contain Paraquat?
FAQs
Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Attorneys

What is Paraquat Tongue?

“Paraquat tongue” is caused by the deliberate or accidental oral ingestion of a Paraquat-based herbicide. As Paraquat is widely used in commercial farming applications, the chemical may be unintentionally swallowed by farm workers and others who live near fields where Paraquat is sprayed. However, recent studies have found that in many cases ingestion of Paraquat was intentional.

Why is Paraquat Tongue Dangerous?

Paraquat is dangerous because it causes direct damage when it comes into contact with the lining of the mouth, stomach, or intestines. After paraquat enters the body, it is distributed to all areas of the body. Paraquat causes toxic chemical reactions to occur throughout many parts of the body, primarily the lungs, liver, and kidneys.

Paraquat Tongue Symptoms

Redness
Swelling
Lesions, sores, and open wounds covering the tongue
Excessive mucous production from open wounds
Necrosis (tissue death)
Severe pain
Burning sensations
Excessive saliva production
Difficulty swallowing

Can You Survive Drinking Paraquat?

Paraquat is highly toxic to humans; just one small accidental sip can be fatal and there is no antidote. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies paraquat as a restricted-use pesticide that should not be accessible to the general public and should never be placed into a beverage container.

What Should You Do if Someone Ingests Paraquat?

If you or someone you know has swallowed paraquat, you should dial 9-1-1 immediately. Treatment with activated charcoal can decrease the amount of Paraquat that is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. People who have ingested a large amount of Paraquat may require hemoperfusion, a procedure that filters the blood through charcoal to try to remove the chemical from the lungs.

Which Herbicides Contain Paraquat?

Gramoxone
Parazone
Quick-Quat
Para-Shot 3.0
Helmquat 3SL
Cyclone SL 2.0
Firestorm
Crisquat
Dexuron
Para-col
Devour
Bonedry
Blanco
Dexuron
Esgram
Ortho Paraquat CL
Tota-col
PP148
Garmixel
Pillarxone
AH 501
Bai Cao Ku

FAQs

How is Paraquat exposure linked to Parkinson’s disease?

Paraquat has been shown to cause oxidative stress and damage to the brain’s dopaminergic neurons, which are critical in the development of Parkinson’s disease. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of these neurodegenerative effects.

What should I do if I suspect Paraquat exposure?

If you suspect Paraquat exposure, seek immediate medical attention. Document your symptoms and exposure history, and consult with an attorney experienced in toxic exposure cases to explore your legal options.

Are there any alternatives to Paraquat for weed control?

Yes, there are several alternative herbicides and non-chemical weed control methods available that can reduce the risk of toxic exposure. These alternatives may include organic herbicides, mechanical weed removal, and integrated pest management practices.

What legal actions can be taken if exposed to Paraquat?

Individuals exposed to Paraquat and suffering health issues can file a lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Consulting with an attorney experienced in toxic exposure cases is crucial for legal guidance.

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The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firms is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus 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 lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and a lawyer can help.

Why Paraquat Tongue May Be Dangerous? What You Need to Know