ThermaCare Heat Wraps Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

ThermaCare Heat Wraps Lawsuit Overview

ThermaCare Heat Wraps lawsuits focus on claims that these over-the-counter pain relief products can cause serious skin burns, blisters, and thermal injuries when used as directed.Plaintiffs allege that manufacturer Pfizer (and previously Wyeth) failed to adequately warn consumers about potential risks despite numerous adverse event reports.The FDA has received hundreds of injury reports related to heat wrap products, with many cases resulting in second and third-degree burns requiring medical attention.

Latest ThermaCare Lawsuit Updates

• April 2023 – A multi-district litigation (MDL) was formed in the Southern District of New York, consolidating over 120 ThermaCare injury cases alleging severe burns and permanent scarring. The court appointed a plaintiff’s steering committee to coordinate discovery proceedings.
• November 2022 – Pfizer reached confidential settlements with 45 plaintiffs who suffered second and third-degree burns from ThermaCare Heat Wraps. The settlement amounts were not disclosed but were reported to cover medical expenses and pain and suffering damages.
• July 2022 – The FDA issued an updated safety communication warning about the risk of burns associated with heat wraps and requiring manufacturers to include clearer warning labels regarding proper use and potential risks.
• April 2019 – Pfizer is recalling 1 lot of ThermaCare® HeatWraps (16 Hour) after reports surfaced of certain wraps having cells that get hotter than the specified temperature [1].
• September 2018 – A class action lawsuit was filed in California alleging that ThermaCare Heat Wraps caused second-degree burns to multiple consumers despite being used according to package directions.

ThermaCare Market and Injury Statistics

ThermaCare Heat Wraps represent a significant portion of the $450 million annual heat therapy market in the United States, with approximately 5.2 million units sold annually.According to FDA MAUDE database reports, heat therapy products including ThermaCare have been associated with over 1,200 adverse events between 2010 and 2024.Economic impact data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicates that heat wrap injuries result in an average of $3,500 in immediate medical costs per incident, with more severe cases requiring skin grafts or reconstructive surgery exceeding $25,000 in medical expenses.Industry reports estimate that thermal injuries from consumer products like heat wraps contribute to approximately $35 million in annual healthcare costs nationwide.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA’s Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database contains substantial information regarding ThermaCare injuries:

• 687 adverse event reports specifically related to ThermaCare Heat Wraps since 2015
• 73% of reports involve skin burns ranging from first to third degree
• 42% required medical treatment including emergency room visits
• 12% resulted in permanent scarring or tissue damage

The FDA issued safety communications in 2019 and 2022 regarding proper use of heat therapy products and potential burn risks, with specific reference to ThermaCare products.

ThermaCare Injuries & Side Effects

ThermaCare Heat Wraps have been associated with a range of injuries, from mild skin irritation to severe burns requiring medical intervention.

• Thermal Burns: Second and third-degree burns requiring medical treatment
• Chemical Burns: Reactions between skin moisture and wrap components
• Blisters and Skin Lesions: Painful fluid-filled blisters and open wounds
• Permanent Scarring: Discoloration and textural changes to skin tissue
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Rashes, hives, and allergic responses
• Tissue Necrosis: Death of skin cells requiring surgical intervention

Do You Qualify for a ThermaCare Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a ThermaCare lawsuit if:

• You used ThermaCare Heat Wraps between 2015 and the present
• You experienced burns, blisters, scarring, or other serious skin injuries
• Your injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to ThermaCare products
• You have purchase records or other proof of ThermaCare use
• You used the product according to package directions

Evidence Required for a ThermaCare Lawsuit

To build a strong case, you will need to gather:

• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments
• Photographs of burns, blisters, or scarring
• Product packaging or purchase receipts
• Documentation of any communications with the manufacturer
• Records of medical expenses and lost wages
• Testimony regarding pain, suffering, and lifestyle impacts

Damages You Can Recover

Successful ThermaCare lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering damages
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disfigurement or scarring
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

ThermaCare Recall Information

ThermaCare Heat Wraps have experienced several recalls:April 2019 – Pfizer recalled one lot of ThermaCare HeatWraps (16 Hour) after testing revealed certain units could reach temperatures higher than specified, increasing burn risk. The affected lot number was T46373, with an expiration date of 08/2020.March 2018 – A voluntary recall of ThermaCare Back Pain Therapy HeatWraps (lot numbers T26535 and T26746) due to leaking heat cells that could cause burns when exposed directly to skin.September 2015 – A limited recall of ThermaCare Neck Pain Therapy products after multiple reports of excessive heating during normal use, affecting approximately 380,000 units distributed nationwide.If you’ve been injured by a recalled ThermaCare product, this strengthens your potential legal claim significantly.

Statute of Limitations for ThermaCare Lawsuits

The time limit to file a ThermaCare lawsuit varies by state:

• Most states allow 2-3 years from the date of injury to file a product liability claim
• Some states offer only 1 year (Louisiana, Tennessee)
• Others provide up to 6 years (Maine, North Dakota)
• The “discovery rule” may extend these deadlines if injuries weren’t immediately apparent

Consulting with an experienced attorney is crucial to ensure you don’t miss important filing deadlines, as these statutes are strictly enforced in product liability cases.Related articles

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• Pfizer Recall Lawsuits
• Xeljanz Side Effects Lawsuit
• iPhone Case Chemical Burn Lawsuit

See all the product liability litigations we’re currently covering.

FAQs

1. What Makes ThermaCare Heat Wraps Potentially Dangerous?

ThermaCare Heat Wraps contain iron particles that oxidize when exposed to air, creating heat through an exothermic reaction. When these cells malfunction or reach higher temperatures than intended, they can cause severe burns even through clothing. Manufacturing defects, improper sealing, or chemical instability can all contribute to dangerous overheating.

2. How Much Compensation Can I Receive for ThermaCare Injuries?

Compensation amounts range from $10,000 to over $250,000 depending on injury severity, medical expenses, and long-term impacts. Factors affecting settlement values include permanent scarring, treatment costs, lost income, and emotional distress. Recent settlements have averaged approximately $45,000 for moderate burns requiring medical treatment.

3. Is There a Class Action Lawsuit Against ThermaCare Manufacturers?

Yes, multiple class actions and a multi-district litigation (MDL) are currently proceeding against Pfizer regarding ThermaCare injuries. Individual lawsuits are also being filed in various state courts. The MDL consolidates similar cases to streamline the discovery process while allowing each plaintiff to maintain their individual claim.

4. How Long Does a ThermaCare Lawsuit Take to Resolve?

Most ThermaCare injury cases settle within 9-18 months, though complex cases may take 2-3 years if they proceed to trial. The litigation timeline depends on case complexity, injury severity, and whether the case settles during pre-trial negotiations or requires a full court proceeding.

5. Can I File a Lawsuit If I Didn’t See a Doctor Immediately?

Yes, you can still pursue a claim even with delayed medical treatment, though documentation becomes more crucial. Medical records that clearly connect your injuries to ThermaCare use are essential for establishing causation. Photographs of injuries and preserving product packaging can help strengthen cases with delayed medical attention.

6. What If I No Longer Have the Product Packaging or Receipt?

While helpful, product packaging isn’t always required to file a claim. Credit card statements, pharmacy records, or affidavits from witnesses who can confirm your use of ThermaCare products may suffice as evidence. Your attorney can help identify alternative methods to establish product usage.

7. Are ThermaCare Heat Wraps Still Being Sold Despite Lawsuits?

Yes, ThermaCare products remain on the market, though with updated warning labels since 2022. Current packaging includes enhanced safety instructions and clearer warnings about potential burn risks. The FDA continues to monitor adverse event reports while allowing distribution with improved safety information.

8. How Do I Know If My Skin Reaction Is Serious Enough for a Lawsuit?

Burns requiring medical treatment, resulting in blisters, permanent discoloration, or scarring typically qualify for legal action. If your injury caused significant pain, required prescription medications, interfered with daily activities, or resulted in medical expenses, you should consult with an attorney about potential compensation.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for ThermaCare injuries. Most states only allow 2-3 years from the date of injury to file your claim, and this window may be closing soon for many victims.Schmidt & Clark provides:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or hourly fees
• Contingency-based representation – you pay nothing unless we win your case
• Nationwide representation with experience in heat wrap litigation

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for injuries caused by defective ThermaCare products. Our experienced legal team has a proven track record of holding manufacturers accountable for dangerous consumer products. Start Your Free Case Review Now

References:

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/pfizer-inc-issues-voluntary-nationwide-consumer-level-recall-one-lot-thermacarer-back-pain-therapy