Key Takeaways
- Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against Indivior, the manufacturer of Suboxone, alleging that the company failed to warn users about the risk of severe dental problems, including tooth decay and loss.
- Eligibility for joining the lawsuit generally requires proof of significant dental injury after Suboxone use, and claims must be filed within the statute of limitations.
- Settlement amounts are expected to vary widely, with some estimates ranging from $10,000 to over $500,000, depending on the severity of injuries and case specifics.
Understanding the Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit
What Is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication used primarily to treat opioid addiction. It contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Suboxone is often administered as a sublingual film, which dissolves under the tongue. This delivery method is intended to help patients avoid opioid withdrawal and reduce cravings.
Allegations Against Indivior
The core of the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit is the allegation that Indivior, the manufacturer, failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the risk of severe dental issues associated with the medication. Plaintiffs claim that using Suboxone, especially in its sublingual film form, can cause serious dental problems such as:
- Severe tooth decay
- Tooth loss
- Dental erosion
These lawsuits argue that these risks were not sufficiently disclosed in the product’s warnings or labeling, leading to significant dental damage for many users. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in January 2022 about dental problems linked to buprenorphine medicines dissolved in the mouth, including Suboxone. You can read the FDA’s safety communication here.
The Scope of the Litigation
The lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the process. As of early 2024, over 10,000 lawsuits have been filed. The MDL process allows similar cases to be handled together for efficiency, especially during pretrial proceedings. Bellwether trials—test cases that help predict outcomes for the larger group—are expected to occur soon. These trials may set the stage for broader settlements or influence the direction of the litigation.
For more on the MDL process, see the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.
Eligibility and Filing a Lawsuit
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible to file a Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit, individuals generally must:
- Have used Suboxone, particularly the sublingual film form.
- Have suffered significant dental injuries, such as tooth decay, tooth loss, or dental erosion.
- Be able to show that these injuries occurred after starting Suboxone.
- File within the applicable statute of limitations, which varies by state.
Potential claimants are strongly encouraged to consult with a legal professional to determine their eligibility and the viability of their claims. For more information on who qualifies, see TorHoerman Law’s FAQ and Robert King Law Firm’s guide.
The Importance of Evidence
Successful claims typically require substantial documentation, such as:
- Medical and dental records showing the extent of injuries.
- Proof of Suboxone prescriptions and usage history.
- Expert opinions linking Suboxone use to dental damage.
Law firms emphasize the importance of gathering and preserving this evidence early in the process.
Financial Impact and Settlement Estimates
The Cost of Dental Injuries
Many plaintiffs have faced significant financial burdens due to dental treatments, including:
- Fillings and crowns
- Root canals
- Tooth extractions
- Dentures or implants
These treatments can be expensive and may not be fully covered by insurance.
Settlement Amounts
Settlement amounts in Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits are projected to vary widely. Factors influencing compensation include:
- Severity of dental injuries
- Number of affected teeth
- Cost of past and future dental care
- Pain and suffering
Some sources estimate that settlements could range from $10,000 to over $500,000, with many cases expected to fall between $50,000 and $150,000. These figures are subject to change as litigation progresses and more cases are resolved. For more details, see Miller & Zois’s product liability page and Lawsuit Update Center.
Indivior’s Legal History
Previous Settlements
The Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits are not the first legal challenges faced by Indivior. Notable past settlements include:
- 2020: Indivior agreed to pay $600 million to resolve claims of illegal practices aimed at increasing Suboxone prescriptions (U.S. Department of Justice).
- 2021: Indivior and Reckitt Benckiser were ordered to pay $60 million in an antitrust settlement related to Suboxone (Federal Trade Commission].
These settlements highlight the ongoing scrutiny and legal challenges facing the manufacturer.
The Legal Process and Representation
Law Firms Involved
Numerous law firms across the United States are representing clients in these lawsuits. Firms with experience in mass tort litigation and product liability claims are especially active. Examples include:
These firms guide clients through the process, from initial consultation to gathering evidence and navigating court proceedings.
The Role of Updates
As the litigation continues, regular updates are provided to plaintiffs and potential claimants. These updates cover:
- Status of the MDL and bellwether trials
- Settlement negotiations
- Changes in legal strategy
Staying informed is crucial for anyone considering joining the lawsuit. For ongoing updates, see the FDA’s Drug Safety Communications and U.S. Courts MDL information.
Broader Implications
Impact on Drug Safety and Pharmaceutical Liability
The Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits may have significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry. They highlight the importance of:
- Transparent risk disclosures
- Ongoing monitoring of drug safety
- Manufacturer accountability
The outcomes could influence how drug companies communicate risks and respond to adverse events in the future.
Conclusion
The Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit represents a major legal challenge for Indivior and a critical issue for thousands of affected individuals. The litigation centers on allegations that the manufacturer failed to warn about severe dental risks, leading to significant harm. With the MDL process underway and bellwether trials on the horizon, the path to settlement remains active and evolving.
If you believe you may have a claim, consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your options. For comprehensive legal research and updates, visit Counsel Stack.
Disclaimer: This guide provides a general overview of the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit based on current publicly available information and allegations. Legal outcomes may change as cases progress. This is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.
