One of the world’s largest drug manufacturers, GlaxoSmithKline of Great Britain, is in trouble again, this time with their antidepressant drugs Paxil and Paxil CR, the controlled-release version of the drug. Still reeling from the recent FDA announcement that their diabetes drug, Avandia, causes life-threatening cardiac problems, GlaxoSmithKline just learned that parents who bought Paxil for their children can begin seeking reimbursements under a $64 million deal to settle consumers’ claims.
The lawsuit alleges that GlaxoSmithKline promoted Paxil for use in children yet failed to provide pertinent information regarding the harmful side effects, including increased suicidal behavior. A United States spokesperson for GlaxoSmithKline did take responsibility on behalf of the drug company but refused to admit any wrongdoing.
Of the $64 million in the settlement fund, plaintiffs’ attorneys can claim over $16 million in fees, and the remaining money will be paid out to victims and their families. Any money left over after all victims have been reimbursed will be returned to GlaxoSmithKline. In addition to this class-action lawsuit, the parents of teenagers who killed themselves while taking Paxil can still sue GlaxoSmithKline as can government agencies and insurance companies.
If you or a loved one has taken the antidepressant Paxil and you have questions regarding any of the serious adverse effects such as increased suicidal behavior, please visit the website of the experienced dangerous drugs lawyers at the Glick Law Firm, P.A.
