Colorado Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit: Latest 2024 Updates

Quick Summary

• If you’re in Colorado and have suffered tooth decay from Suboxone, you might qualify for a Colorado Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit. Suboxone, commonly used for opioid addiction treatment, has been linked to severe dental health issues, including tooth decay.
• This connection has led to a rise in lawsuits as affected individuals seek justice and compensation for their dental injuries. This article provides the latest updates on these lawsuits, who qualifies, and what compensation might be available.
• If you or someone you know has experienced complications due to Suboxone, Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to assist you. Renowned for their expertise in representing plaintiffs, our firm is dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by simplifying the complexities of a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit. With a team of lawyers who specialize in these cases, we provide the necessary expertise and support for an effective pursuit of your claim. From gathering evidence to filing your lawsuit, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

• You won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case
• This approach allows you to seek justice without the burden of upfront costs
• Our commitment to our client’s well-being is evident in our track record of successful settlements and verdicts.

Should you or a loved one encounter dental issues after taking Suboxone, we encourage you to contact S&C and take advantage of our free consultation.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Overview

The surge in Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits is due to individuals attributing serious dental issues like broken teeth, gum disease, and oral infections to the drug’s usage. Suboxone’s acidic nature and its ability to cause dry mouth are thought to contribute significantly to dental decay.

Suboxone tooth decay claims involve individuals who have experienced severe dental injuries as a result of using Suboxone. These claims discuss the eligibility for filing lawsuits, the evidence needed, and the litigation process, including the statute of limitations and the multidistrict litigation (MDL) process.

The lawsuits claim that Indivior, Inc. and Aquestive, the manufacturers, knew about these dental risks but did not adequately inform doctors or patients. This failure to warn has led to numerous cases of dental erosion, cavities, and other dental problems.

Due to their slow dissolution, the prolonged contact of Suboxone films with teeth is suspected to exacerbate these issues.

Despite these risks, the manufacturers allegedly failed to update the warning label until 2022, long after many users had already suffered severe dental injuries.

Consequently, individuals who have suffered dental problems are seeking compensation for their injuries through legal action.

Research has shown a high correlation between sublingual buprenorphine usage and the onset of tooth decay. Studies and reports have documented that Suboxone can lead to significant dental problems, such as enamel erosion and tooth fractures, further supporting the plaintiffs’ claims.

Given the severity of these dental issues and the manufacturers’ alleged negligence, many individuals are seeking legal recourse through Suboxone tooth decay litigation. These lawsuits aim to hold the manufacturers accountable and secure compensation for the dental injuries suffered by users.

What Is Suboxone?

According to AAC, Suboxone is a medication approved by the FDA in 2002 to combat opioid addiction. It combines buprenorphine, a semi-synthetic opioid that helps reduce pain and blocks the effects of narcotics like heroin and morphine, with naloxone. This opioid antagonist prevents misuse by blocking the effects of opioid medication [1].

It is available in various forms, including prescription suboxone film, buccal film, and sublingual tablets. The medication is specifically indicated to treat opioid addiction and not for pain management.

Researchers started exploring buprenorphine’s potential for managing opioid use disorder (OUD) in the 1970s due to its lower appeal for abuse and reduced overdose risk.

However, despite its benefits in treating opioid addiction, Suboxone has been linked to severe dental issues due to its highly acidic nature. This connection has led to numerous lawsuits as individuals seek compensation for the dental damage they have suffered while using the medication.

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is an oral film prescribed to treat dependence on opioid drugs. It works to reduce withdrawal symptoms when stopping opioids and for an extended period of time afterward – Victor Nguyen, PharmD, MBA, Licensed Pharmacist and Associate Director – Medical Communications at Wesley Enterprise, Inc.

Suboxone Side Effects and Symptoms

According to MedicalNewsToday, despite its effectiveness in treating opioid addiction, Suboxone carries a multitude of side effects. Common side effects include [2]:

• headache
• diarrhea
• constipation
• nausea

These symptoms can be uncomfortable but are generally manageable with proper medical supervision.

Some of the side effects can be severe and cause concern. It is important to be aware of potential risks when taking medication. Suboxone can cause a numb mouth and a painful tongue, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Respiratory depression, a serious side effect, occurs in 1-10 percent of Suboxone patients and requires immediate medical attention.

In addition to physical symptoms, Suboxone can also affect mental health. Users may experience anxiety, depression, and nervousness, which can exacerbate the challenges of overcoming opioid addiction. Dizziness, fainting, and concentration problems are other potential side effects that can interfere with daily activities.

One of the most significant concerns with Suboxone is its impact on dental health. The drug’s acidic nature and its tendency to cause dry mouth can lead to severe dental problems, including tooth decay, cavities, and oral infections. Many individuals have suffered severe tooth decay, prompting them to file lawsuits against the manufacturers, seeking compensation for their dental injuries.

FDA Warnings Regarding Suboxone

Suboxone has prompted the FDA to release numerous warnings, primarily related to its possibility of causing dental problems. In June 2022, the FDA required Indivior to update the warning label on Suboxone to include information about the risks of tooth decay [3].

This action was taken in response to numerous reports of severe dental problems associated with the medication.

The FDA has cautioned that dental issues can arise with buprenorphine medications that dissolve in the mouth, such as:

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

Even patients with no prior dental problems have reported serious dental issues while using buprenorphine. To mitigate these risks, the FDA mandates that the risk of dental problems be included in the prescribing information and patient Medication Guide for all buprenorphine products dissolved in the mouth.

Patients are advised to swish water around their teeth and gums after buprenorphine dissolves and wait at least one hour before brushing their teeth. Healthcare professionals should refer patients to a dentist for a baseline dental evaluation and establish a preventive dental plan.

How Do You Qualify for a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in Colorado, you must demonstrate that you were prescribed Suboxone and suffered dental injuries due to its use. This includes providing proof of prescription and medical records showing the extent of the dental damage caused by the drug.

Eligibility criteria also include having three or more extractions due to using Suboxone sublingual strips.

The Status Of The Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in Colorado

Across Colorado, there has been a steady rise in Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits. As of May 1, 2024, there are 205 pending Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits in the multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Ohio.

These cases are currently part of the ongoing legal proceedings. Soon, the total number of Suboxone lawsuits is expected to exceed 700, which indicates that legal action is increasing regarding Suboxone.

The Suboxone MDL, which includes federal suboxone lawsuits, has seen rapid growth, with the number of cases rising from 44 to 205 in just a few weeks. This increase in lawsuits reflects the growing awareness of the dental risks associated with Suboxone and the desire for affected individuals to seek justice.

In June 2024, plaintiffs filed a new amended master complaint to fine-tune their allegations against Suboxone manufacturers in a Suboxone class action lawsuit. This development indicates that the legal process is actively evolving, with plaintiffs and their lawyers continuously working to strengthen their cases.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Colorado

Settlement amounts in Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits can greatly differ depending on various factors. The plaintiffs aim to secure compensation for the financial and emotional burdens caused by dental injuries linked to Suboxone. This includes claims for dental repairs, treatments, and ongoing medical bills.

The compensatory damages sought in these lawsuits cover various expenses, such as root canal procedures, crown replacements, and cavity fillings. Additionally, victims may claim compensation for pain and suffering, as well as lost income due to missed work and the impact on their careers.

The exact settlement amounts depend on the number of claims filed and other related factors. On average, the settlement amounts can range from $25,000 to over $150,000 per victim. Accumulated medical expenses play a critical role in validating the claim for compensation.

Missing teeth and other severe dental injuries are described as disfigurements that can lead to social stigmatization. This can further influence the settlement amounts, as the emotional and psychological impact of dental problems is considered in the compensation awarded.

Filing a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in Colorado

Several steps are involved in filing a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in Colorado. Working with experienced Suboxone lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

They can guide the legal strategies to employ, the types of evidence needed, and the challenges that may arise during the litigation process.

Legal Strategies and Challenges

Legal strategies in Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits often involve:

• A streamlined and efficient process for electronic document discovery
• Plaintiffs’ lawyers prefer this approach to avoid prolonged legal battles over document production
• Defendants frequently argue that some document productions are not technically feasible, leading to disputes.

A significant challenge in these cases is the handling and production of electronic documents during discovery. Plaintiffs’ lawyers oppose the defendants’ motions to separate general causation from case-specific discovery to avoid prolonging the litigation. They argue that separating these phases would misallocate resources and add significant delays.

Proving general causation, which involves demonstrating that Suboxone can inherently cause dental issues, is typically easier due to the drug’s highly acidic nature and documented dental harm. However, specific causation, which requires linking an individual’s dental condition directly to their use of Suboxone, can be more challenging and requires personalized evidence.

Amending master complaints to fine-tune allegations and adapt to evolving legal strategies is a common practice in Suboxone lawsuits. This helps strengthen the plaintiffs’ cases and address any new developments in the legal process.

Types of Evidence To Present

Gathering evidence is crucial in building a compelling case against the manufacturers of Suboxone.

Eligibility for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit hinges on several key pieces of evidence:

• Medical Records: Proof of your Suboxone prescription and detailed medical records showing the extent of the dental damage caused by the drug.
• Dental Health Records: Documentation of dental injuries, including X-ray images, to establish a clear link between Suboxone use and dental damage.
• Proof of Suboxone Use: Prescription records to verify that you were using Suboxone at the time the dental issues occurred.
• Significant Dental Damage: Evidence of considerable dental harm, such as multiple tooth extractions, which law firms often require to take on new Suboxone cases.
• Expert Testimony: Scientific observations and expert testimony linking Suboxone to tooth decay can significantly strengthen your case.
• Proof of Purchase: Documentation of Suboxone purchases to claim compensation from the Suboxone settlement.

By gathering these pieces of evidence, you can build a strong case to seek compensation for the dental injuries caused by Suboxone.

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

The statute of limitations for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in Colorado is typically two years from the date the harm from a defective product is discovered.

The discovery rule may extend this period, enabling individuals to pursue legal action upon learning about the connection between their dental injuries and Suboxone use. Potential claims can be filed beyond the initial timeframe.

Related Articles:

• California 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 Colorado Suboxone Lawyers

The Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is committed to supporting you during challenging times. If you or a loved one has suffered complications from medications like Suboxone, please reach out to us. Our team has extensive experience in handling these cases and will guide you through the legal process.

We will explain your rights and evaluate your eligibility for a Suboxone lawsuit related to these complications. Benefit from our free case evaluation, and remember, you only pay if we win your case.

You can rely on our commitment to your case as if you were part of our own family. Contact us today for a comprehensive review of your concerns.

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