SUBOXONE and TOOTH DECAY
Aug 28, 2024
Our team of attorneys is currently investigating claims involving the use of oral dissolvable Suboxone films related to increased rates of serious dental problems.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a prescription medication used to treat opioid addiction. It is a combination of two drugs, Buprenorphine and Naloxone, and is one of several medications that the FDA has approved for the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Originally administered in pill form, the manufacturer of Suboxone, Reckitt Benckiser, and its pharmaceutical subsidiary Indivior, Inc., initially sought approval to offer an oral film form in 2008 in an attempt to preserve its monopoly over the drug and remain the exclusive manufacturer of Suboxone. In 2010 the FDA approved the film version of Suboxone.
Suboxone and Tooth Decay
Reports of serious dental problems associated with the use of Suboxone oral films began appearing in medical literature as early as 2012. These dental problems, including tooth decay, cavities, oral infections, and loss of teeth, were reported even in patients with no history of dental issues. Despite this knowledge, Reckitt Benckiser and Indivior continued to market Suboxone as safe and efficient, and provided no warning to consumers about the increased risk of serious dental problems.
In January 2022 the FDA issued a drug safety communication about long term Suboxone use and the increased risk of serious dental problems, and ordered that a new warning about the risk of dental problems to be added to the Suboxone prescribing information and patient medication guide. In June 2022 a warning about the increased risk of dental problems was finally added to the prescribing information.
What Compensation may be Recoverable in a Suboxone Lawsuit?
If you developed serious dental problems following long term use of oral dissolvable Suboxone film, you may be eligible to participate in a lawsuit against the corporations responsible for the manufacturing and selling of Suboxone.
It is important to note that you must be able to demonstrate a history of stable oral health and regular oral care and treatment prior to Suboxone use in order to qualify.
If you hire ASK LLP, we may seek the following damages for you:
Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future pain and suffering
- Past and future mental anguish
- Past and future loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages, if justified
