Drug Manufacturing Company Gets $327 Million Fine for Deceptive Marketing

A South Carolina circuit judge recently penalized J&J $327 million for the deceptive marketing of its antipsychotic drug Risperdal.  During the trial, the judge quoted J&J's famed credo which executives at the company repeat and claim to abide by. "We believe our first responsibility is to the doctors, nurses and patients, to mothers and fathers and all others who use our products and services. In meeting their needs, everything we do must be of high quality."  The judge read the credo to contrast the words with the negligent action taken by J&J and how the company had lost its focus upon the stated objective in the credo.

Results from Studies Were Kept Hidden From View

The judge addressed the issue of J&J finding ways to convince doctors to prescribe Risperdal based on misleading, incomplete or concealed information.  He brought to light how the results from two studies were not disclosed for a number of years and that these results were withheld as they did not fit the marketing department's vision for promotion of the drug. Additionally, the judge admonished J&J for failing to include important information about side effects on their labeling for years.

He stated in writing, that he found J&J's actions to be detestable especially when most patients treated with Risperdal already suffer from conditions that hinder their ability to make informed and correct decisions. He stated that J&J exhibited a callous disregard for patients' rights to have all information available as well as in the hands of their physician, prior to making decisions about the drug. In his findings, the judge stated that J&J allowed a "profits at all cost" mentality to cloud their vision as to their responsibilities as stated in their credo.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of a dangerous drug in Alpharetta?

Dangerous and defective drugs are not an uncommon problem and many of the drugs that are sold to consumers, even if given FDA approval, are not guaranteed to be safe.  It is unfortunate that pharmaceutical companies sometimes place profit over consumer safety, placing lives at risk; they need to be held accountable for their actions. 

If you have been injured by a dangerous drug, you should contact an Alpharetta personal injury attorney for legal help.  At the Williamson Law Firm, we can offer you exceptional legal guidance and conduct the research necessary to help you file a personal injury claim. Injury   from a  dangerous drug can affect a person for years to come and compensation becomes not just desirable, but a necessity.  Holding those accountable for their negligence is the responsible thing to do.