OxyContin is an analgesic used for treating moderate to severe pain. This drug contains a time release formulation that allows it be used every 12 hours. However, its misuse may cause addiction and in some cases even death. The use of this drug became controversial because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ignored reports about its abuse.

According to Dallas medical malpractice attorneys, the executives at Purdue ignored adverse reports about the drug and went ahead with their aggressive marketing plan. According to this plan, they targeted general practitioners. These doctors were advised that the chances of addiction were negligible. The company spent $200 million promoting the drug.

A clinical researcher formerly employed by the pharmaceutical company informed the company that the drug was flawed. However, the company chose to ignore his report. This employee was later fired from the company.

The FDA approved the drug on the basis of reports filed by the company, which had purposefully downplayed the side effects of the drug.

Purdue agrees to stop marketing OxyContin in Texas

In 2007, Texas and 25 other states reached an agreement with Purdue Pharma. According to this agreement, the pharmaceutical giant would stop marketing the prescription drug unlawfully. According to sources within the industry, Purdue Pharma had deliberately downplayed the risks associated with the drug in order to defraud physicians and patients.

Medical experts say that the chronic use of this pain reliever can lead to dependency on the drug. If this drug is used over a period of time, its potency decreases, requiring higher dosages to get the same effect. Many chronic users experience withdrawal symptoms after the drug is stopped.

The pharmaceutical company agreed to pay more than $600 million in criminal and civil penalties. Dallas personal injury attorneys believe that the company had falsely downplayed the risks associated with the drug.

The terms of the agreement were as follows:

• The drug company will market the drug according to FDA guidelines. Off-label marketing activities will be stopped.
• Purdue will also stop making exaggerated claims about the healing properties of the drug.
• According to the agreement, employees will be trained so that they will be in a position to educate medical health professionals and the public about the proper use of the drug.

According to the Attorney General’s office, the main purpose of the agreement was to educate the public about the risks associated with the drug so that it is used correctly in proper dosages. The Attorney General said that his office will continue to protect the health and safety of Texas consumers.

According to Dallas medical malpractice lawyers, a victim of OxyContin abuse should file a Dallas product liability lawsuit before the statute of limitations runs out.