California Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Attorney

Quick Summary

• The California Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit addresses severe dental issues linked to the use of Suboxone. This legal battle involves numerous plaintiffs seeking compensation for dental injuries such as tooth decay, cavities, and tooth loss caused by prescribed Suboxone.
• This article offers a comprehensive overview of the latest settlement updates, legal strategies, and essential information for those affected by Suboxone-related dental issues.
• If you or someone you know has experienced complications due to Suboxone, Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to help. With a strong reputation in representing plaintiffs, our focus is on securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by understanding the frustration and financial burden that severe dental injuries can cause, especially when they result from a medication meant to help.

Our dedicated team of Suboxone attorneys is here to provide you with the guidance and representation you need to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Leveraging our years of experience in Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits, we are poised to construct a robust case for you. Our process includes:

1. Meticulously gathering and analyzing your medical and dental records
2. Consulting with experts in the field
3. Crafting a compelling argument to hold the responsible parties accountable

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Overview

Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits, also known as the Suboxone lawsuit, have been gaining significant traction over the past year, with more cases being filed.

As of July 2nd, 2024, the number of Suboxone film lawsuits, including Suboxone teeth lawsuits, increased from 358 to 677, with an addition of 319 cases. This surge in litigation highlights the widespread impact of Suboxone-related dental issues on patients.

Indivior, the manufacturer of Suboxone, has been using various tactics to delay the litigation process, frustrating plaintiffs who need financial compensation. Despite these efforts, plaintiffs’ lawyers are diligently working to build strong cases using corporate disclosures filed by Indivior.

These disclosures are crucial in influencing potential settlement discussions and understanding the defense’s strategies.

A thorough understanding of the Suboxone tooth decay litigation landscape is pivotal for those contemplating a claim. With the right legal support and a thorough understanding of the process, you can take the necessary steps to pursue justice and compensation for your injuries.

What Is Suboxone?

According to AAC, Suboxone is a combination medication consisting of buprenorphine and naloxone, primarily used to treat opioid addiction [1]. It works by decreasing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and reducing opioid dependency, making it a vital part of many patients’ recovery journeys.

As an opioid antagonist, Suboxone prevents the activation of pain receptors, effectively negating the effects of opioids. This mechanism helps individuals manage their opioid addiction with fewer severe side effects compared to other treatments like methadone.

Suboxone is available in two forms: a tablet and a sublingual film. The sublingual film dissolves under the tongue, which can lead to significant dental issues over time. The FDA has issued warning label changes for prescription Suboxone film due to its acidic ingredients causing dental problems.

Despite its benefits in treating opioid addiction, the dental risks associated with Suboxone have become a major concern for many users.

A comprehensive medication-assisted opioid addiction treatment plan with Suboxone typically includes substance abuse counseling and primary care. This holistic approach aims to support patients in their recovery while addressing any additional health concerns that may arise.

Suboxone Side Effects and Symptoms

While Suboxone is effective in treating opioid addiction, it can cause a range of side effects, particularly related to dental health.

According to MedicalNewsToday, many patients have reported [2]:

• severe tooth decay
• cavities
• oral infections
• tooth loss

These dental issues are often a result of letting the medication dissolve in the mouth, which is a common practice with Suboxone sublingual films. Some patients experience sore or loose teeth shortly after starting Suboxone treatment, indicating the rapid onset of dental problems.

Death from respiratory depression is rare with Suboxone but may be more likely when people use Suboxone in conjunction with other substances that slow breathing, such as benzodiazepines, sedatives, tranquilizers, or alcohol – Stacy Mosel, L.M.S.W., Substance Abuse Specialist and Contributor at the American Addiction Centers.

FDA Warnings Regarding Suboxone

According to the FDA, the agency has been proactive in addressing the dental risks associated with Suboxone. On January 12th, 2022, the FDA released a drug safety communication, which resulted in the addition of warning labels on Suboxone sublingual films and tablets [3].

These warnings highlight the potential for severe dental issues, including tooth decay, dental infections, and oral abscesses.

The updated warning labels, revised in June 2022, now include adverse dental events such as severe tooth decay, dental erosion, and significant oral infections.

This formal acknowledgment by the FDA is a critical development in the litigation process, as it establishes a scientific link between Suboxone use and severe dental issues.

Manufacturers are now required to include these warnings in the prescribing information and the patient Medication Guide, ensuring that both healthcare providers and patients are aware of the dental risks.

This step bears significant weight in swaying lawsuit outcomes, highlighting the necessity of informed consent and the manufacturer’s duty to issue sufficient warnings.

According to JAMA, the FDA has also noted that prescription suboxone films, specifically in sublingual forms, are more likely to cause serious dental health issues compared to regular tablets, as reported in the medical journal JAMA and a 2023 study [4].

How Do You Qualify for a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, you must meet specific criteria. First and foremost, individuals must prove that their severe dental injuries, such as severe tooth decay, tooth loss, oral infections, and tooth fractures, are directly linked to the use of Suboxone. Establishing this connection is essential to substantiate a valid claim.

The Status Of The Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in California

The Suboxone tooth decay litigation in California is progressing, with several critical developments shaping its current status. On June 26th, 2024, Judge Calabrese denied Indivior’s motion for bifurcation, allowing the cases to proceed without unnecessary delays.

The plaintiffs’ leadership committee has been proactive in filing an amended master complaint to enhance the specificity of the claims. This step is crucial for strengthening the cases and ensuring that all relevant details are thoroughly presented.

In the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, a suboxone class action lawsuit has led to the consolidation of 692 federal Suboxone lawsuits as of July 15th, 2024.

These lawsuits are part of ongoing legal proceedings. Consolidating them helps streamline the litigation process and allows for more efficient case handling.

In July 2024, two important case management orders were issued, including guidelines for handling protected information and privileged materials during discovery. These orders are vital for maintaining the integrity of the legal process and ensuring that all parties have access to the necessary information.

The ongoing litigation and recent developments highlight the active nature of the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits in California. Staying informed about the status of these cases can provide valuable insights for anyone considering filing a claim.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in California

As of now, there have been no announced settlements in the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits, and it is unlikely that a settlement will occur in 2024. However, the increasing number of cases being filed and the ongoing legal efforts suggest that settlement discussions may eventually take place.

The topic of tooth decay Suboxone lawsuits is gaining attention as more individuals seek compensation for dental issues linked to the medication.

Plaintiffs’ lawyers are diligently working to build strong cases using the information from corporate disclosures filed by Indivior. These disclosures provide valuable insights into the defense’s strategies and financial information, which could influence potential settlement amounts.

The upcoming status conference on March 7th, 2024, will be a critical step in the litigation process. It will help set the stage for future proceedings and provide further clarity on the potential for settlements in these cases.

Filing a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in California

Filing a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in California involves several steps. First, gather all relevant dental and medical records to support your claim, especially if you were prescribed Suboxone.

Next, consult with an experienced Suboxone lawyer who can evaluate your case, provide legal guidance, and handle the filing process.

The discovery phase will then collect additional evidence, such as expert testimonies, to strengthen your case and establish the link between Suboxone use and dental injuries, aiming for a favorable outcome.

Legal Strategies and Challenges

In the Suboxone lawsuit, one of the primary legal strategies involves proving general causation first—establishing that Suboxone can cause dental issues before addressing specific causation for individual plaintiffs. Such an approach aids in laying a firm groundwork for the cases.

Discovery battles are common in mass tort multidistrict litigations (MDLs), with plaintiffs pushing for streamlined processes and defendants often arguing for more individualized and complex document handling. These battles can significantly impact the duration and complexity of the litigation.

Tolling agreements are another strategic tool used to temporarily suspend legal deadlines, allowing time for proper claim investigation without the rush to file lawsuits. These agreements can play a vital role in guaranteeing the effective collection and presentation of all necessary evidence.

Types of Evidence To Present

To successfully file a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, plaintiffs need to provide robust evidence that substantiates their Suboxone tooth decay claims, including severe dental injuries.

Key elements of this evidence include:

• Medical Records and Dental History: X-rays, diagnoses, and treatment plans are essential for proving the extent of dental decay caused by Suboxone. These documents help establish a clear link between Suboxone use and the resulting dental injuries.
• Photographic Evidence: Clear photos showing the progression of dental decay can significantly strengthen a Suboxone claim. Visual evidence provides a compelling narrative of the harm caused and can be very persuasive in court.
• Financial Documentation: Detailed records of dental bills and insurance claims are crucial for substantiating economic damages. These financial documents demonstrate the monetary impact of the dental issues and are vital for calculating compensation.
• Expert Testimony: Expert opinions may be required to link Suboxone use directly to the dental injuries sustained. This testimony can help reinforce the connection between the medication and the dental damage.

By compiling these forms of evidence, plaintiffs can build a compelling case to support their Suboxone tooth decay claims.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in California?

The statute of limitations for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in California is two years and dictates the window within which a lawsuit must be filed based on when the dental issues were discovered. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of the right to sue.

Tolling agreements can sometimes be used to delay filing lawsuits without losing the right to sue later. These agreements provide additional time to gather necessary evidence and build a strong case. Understanding both the statute of limitations and any potential tolling agreements is vital to ensure the timely filing of your claim.

Tooth decay Suboxone lawsuits often involve updates on the status of the lawsuits, the link between Suboxone and severe tooth decay, and the procedures for filing.

Related Articles:

• Michigan Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit
• Georgia Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit
• New York Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Attorney

See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys have covered so far.

Get Your Free Consultation From Our California Suboxone Lawyers

The Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is here to help you navigate challenging times. If you or a loved one has faced complications from prescribed Suboxone, reach out to us. Our experienced team specializes in handling these cases and will guide you through every step of the legal process.

We will explain your rights and determine your eligibility for a lawsuit related to these complications. Benefit from a free case evaluation, and remember, we only charge fees if we win your case.

Trust in our dedication to your case as if you were part of our own family. Contact us today for a comprehensive assessment of your situation.

Reference:

1. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/suboxone
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325827
3. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-dental-problems-buprenorphine-medicines-dissolved-mouth-treat-opioid-use-disorder
4. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2799415