North Carolina Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Attorney

Quick Summary

• The ongoing North Carolina Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit claims the manufacturer, Indivior Inc., did not adequately warn users about severe dental side effects. This alleged failure to provide proper warnings has led to numerous individuals experiencing significant dental issues, which in turn has resulted in a surge of lawsuits against the company.
• In this article, discover the latest updates, eligibility criteria, and next steps for joining the North Carolina Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit.
• If you or someone you know has experienced complications due to Suboxone, Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is here to assist you. Renowned for representing plaintiffs, we are dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by dealing with the aftermath of severe dental injuries while navigating the complex legal landscape. Our firm specializes in handling Suboxone tooth decay claims, providing you with dedicated guidance and representation throughout the legal process.

With extensive experience in Suboxone litigation, our lawyers are well-equipped to assist you by:

• Gathering crucial evidence and building a strong case.
• Offering personalized consultations to understand the full extent of your injuries.
• Negotiating with defendants to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Overview

In recent years, the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit has garnered substantial attention. These cases are part of the broader tooth decay Suboxone lawsuits, which have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Northern District of Ohio. Plaintiffs seek compensation for dental injuries allegedly caused by Suboxone.

This consolidation, managed by the Joint Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML), aims to streamline the pretrial proceedings, discovery, and motions under a single judge, including a Suboxone class action lawsuit.

The increasing number of cases underscores the widespread impact of Suboxone’s dental side effects, prompting many affected individuals to seek legal recourse through suboxone tooth decay litigation.

The lawsuit’s core allegation is that Indivior Inc., the manufacturer of Suboxone, failed to adequately warn users about the drug’s acidic nature and its potential to cause severe dental decay and other injuries. These reports have raised awareness and prompted more individuals to come forward with their claims.

With the Suboxone MDL in place, the litigation is expected to take a few years to play out as both sides work through the related medical research and legal arguments. However, the consolidation offers a more efficient path toward justice for those who have suffered due to Suboxone’s side effects.

What Is Suboxone?

According to EMA, Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, commonly used to treat opioid addiction in medication-assisted opioid addiction treatment (MAT) [1].

This drug, one of the buprenorphine medications, is designed to decrease withdrawal symptoms and reduce opioid dependence, helping individuals through their recovery journey.

Suboxone works as an opioid antagonist, meaning it prevents opioids from activating pain receptors, unlike opioid agonists, which stimulate these receptors. This unique mechanism makes Suboxone a preferred choice over methadone due to its lower risk of dependency.

Available in tablet and prescription suboxone film forms, Suboxone allows for flexible dosing during recovery. The Suboxone sublingual films, in particular, are popular for their ease of use and effectiveness in tapering doses. However, this form has been linked to the severe dental issues at the heart of the current litigation.

Suboxone Side Effects and Symptoms

Suboxone, while effective in treating opioid addiction, has a range of side effects, with dental issues being among the most severe.

According to MedicalNewsToday, the symptoms of Suboxone-induced dental issues can range from [2]:

• Mild tooth decay
• Severe dental injuries requiring extensive treatments
• Cavities
• Tooth loss
• Gum disease
• Tooth fractures

These symptoms affect dental health and significantly impact overall well-being and quality of life. However, here are the key reasons why Suboxone can cause dental problems:

• Acidic Nature: The sublingual film version of Suboxone, which users place under the tongue to dissolve, has a pH of 3.4 when dissolved. This acidity can erode tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay and other dental health issues.
• Bacterial Growth: The acidic environment fosters the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which produce lactic acids that contribute to tooth decay.
• Dry Mouth: Suboxone use can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Saliva is critical for maintaining oral health as it helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles. A reduction in saliva can exacerbate tooth decay and increase the risk of gum disease.
• Risk of Thrush: Without proper oral care, the risk of developing thrush, a fungal infection, also increases.

It’s vital for those taking Suboxone to be aware of these side effects. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice and consider your legal options.

FDA Warnings Regarding Suboxone

According to the agency, in response to numerous reports of dental issues linked to Suboxone, the FDA has taken significant steps to address these concerns. In June 2022, the FDA required that the labeling for transmucosal buprenorphine products, including Suboxone, include a warning about serious dental problems [3].

Users of sublingual Suboxone have reported these issues. Over 300 reported cases of dental damage influenced the FDA’s decision to update the warning label, underscoring the severity of these side effects.

Healthcare providers are now advised to conduct an oral history and assessment before initiating buprenorphine treatment. This proactive measure aims to identify any pre-existing dental conditions that could be exacerbated by Suboxone use, ensuring that patients receive appropriate guidance and care.

How Do You Qualify for a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit?

To qualify for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, you must prove that you have been prescribed Suboxone and experienced severe dental issues as a result.

Eligibility also includes those who used Suboxone before 2022 when there was no warning of tooth decay in the labeling and can prove their use resulted in severe dental injuries. If you meet these criteria, you may qualify to file a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit and seek compensation for your injuries.

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.

The Status Of The Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in North Carolina

The initial status conference in the Federal Suboxone lawsuit was held on March 7, 2024. Judge Calabrese appointed a Plaintiff’s Steering Committee comprising eighteen members to coordinate the plaintiffs’ efforts.

Key dates include June 14, 2024, for filing a master MDL list, and July 1, 2024, for filing a motion for severance. These deadlines are crucial for the lawsuit’s progression.

The next status conference is on September 4, 2024, to update on the case’s progress, including discovery and potential tolling agreements.

Timeline of Key Events:

• March 7, 2024: Initial status conference held, and Plaintiff’s Steering Committee appointed.
• June 14, 2024: Deadline for plaintiffs’ lawyers to file a master MDL list.
• July 1, 2024: Deadline for defendants to file a motion for severance.
• September 4, 2024: Next status conference for the Suboxone tooth decay MDL.

This timeline provides a clear overview of the upcoming critical dates and helps all parties stay informed about the lawsuit’s progression. As the case evolves, staying updated on these milestones is crucial for those affected by Suboxone’s dental side effects.

Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in North Carolina

Suboxone’s dental issues can result in physical and emotional pain and suffering, which fall under non-economic damages.

These damages cover the extensive impact on the individual’s well-being. The severity of dental damage and the specifics of each case significantly influence the amount of compensation.

Depending on the circumstances, the average Suboxone settlement amount is estimated to range from $25,000 to over $150,000.

To maximize your settlement, it’s essential to keep detailed records of all related expenses and their impact on your daily life. This documentation can strengthen your case and help your lawyer negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

Filing a Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit in North Carolina

There are several crucial steps involved in filing a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, starting with consulting a personal injury lawyer experienced in pharmaceutical litigation.

An initial case review will help evaluate the viability of your claim and guide you through the process. By working with an experienced lawyer, you can navigate the complexities of the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.

Legal Strategies and Challenges

In Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits, legal strategies often revolve around the argument that defendants like Indivior Inc. were aware of the severe tooth decay risk but did not communicate this to doctors or patients. Establishing this knowledge and failure to warn is a critical aspect of the plaintiffs’ case.

One of the main challenges in these lawsuits is the discovery process, particularly disputes over how electronic documents should be handled and produced. Plaintiffs’ lawyers typically push for a streamlined discovery process, while defendants may claim that the requests are too demanding or technically infeasible.

Another significant challenge involves separating general causation discovery from case-specific discovery, which could prolong the litigation. Integrated discovery, which combines both aspects, is often deemed more efficient by the courts and can help expedite the process.

Defendants may also argue that the statute of limitations has passed, but plaintiffs counter that their claims are timely based on discovery rules. Navigating these legal strategies and challenges requires a skilled lawyer who can effectively advocate on behalf of the plaintiffs.

Types of Evidence To Present

To support a Suboxone tooth decay claim, it’s imperative to present robust evidence.

Key evidence includes:

• Dental Records: Detailed records of dental appointments, treatments, and recommended procedures.
• Medical Documentation: Comprehensive medical records that outline your Suboxone usage and the progression of your dental issues.
• Prescription Records: Documentation confirming your prescription and usage of Suboxone.

Additional steps to strengthen your claim:

• Document Progression: Use photos and notes to track the progression of your dental problems. This helps demonstrate a direct connection between Suboxone use and dental damage.
• Affidavits from Healthcare Providers: Statements from healthcare providers detailing the absence of dental issues before Suboxone use can serve as compelling evidence.
• Expert Testimony: Testimonies from dental health professionals can establish the causal link between Suboxone use and dental damage, significantly strengthening your claim.

By meticulously gathering and presenting this evidence, you can build a robust case that clearly demonstrates the impact of Suboxone on your dental health.

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

The statute of limitations for a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit in North Carolina is six years. This means you have six years from the date you discovered your severe dental decay to file a lawsuit. The purpose of this statute is to ensure that Suboxone lawsuits are filed while evidence is fresh and to provide finality for potential defendants.

Related Articles:

• Utah Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit
• Maryland Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit
• Pennsylvania Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit Attorney

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

Get Your Free Consultation From Our North Carolina Suboxone Lawyers

The Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is here to assist you during these difficult times. If you or a loved one has experienced complications from medications like Suboxone, please reach out to us. Our team is highly experienced in managing such cases and will guide you through the legal process.

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

You can trust that our dedication to your case is as strong as if you were a member of our own family. Contact us today for a thorough review of your concerns.

Reference:

1. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/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