Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

Written By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Attorney Jessie Paluch, founder of TruLaw, has over 25 years of experience as a personal injury and mass tort attorney, and previously worked as an international tax attorney at Deloitte. Jessie collaborates with attorneys nationwide — enabling her to share reliable, up-to-date legal information with our readers.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and legal experts at TruLaw and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Jessie Paluch, you can do so here.

TruLaw does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us by using the chat on the bottom of this page. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Key takeaways:

  • Patients who have experienced dental issues like tooth decay, tongue injuries, and gum disease after using Suboxone may qualify to file in the Suboxone MDL.
  • The legal arguments center on whether the manufacturers provided sufficient warnings about these risks and if they performed adequate safety testing.
  • Ongoing litigation aims to hold the manufacturer accountable, seek compensation for individuals affected, and address the broader implications for public health and patient safety.

Overview of the Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

On this page, we’ll discuss an overview of the Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit, who qualifies to file a Suboxone tongue injury claim, current status of the Suboxone litigation, and much more.

Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

Intro to the Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

Common tongue injuries reported by Suboxone users include, but are not limited to:

  • Tongue numbness or tingling
  • Swelling or inflammation of the tongue
  • Tongue discoloration or white patches
  • Painful sores or ulcers on the tongue

If you or a loved one has suffered from tongue injuries after taking Suboxone, you may be eligible to file a Suboxone tongue injury lawsuit.

Contact TruLaw for a free case evaluation using the chat on this page to determine if you qualify for compensation.

Table of Contents

What is Suboxone Sublingual Film?

Suboxone sublingual film is a formulation of opioid addiction medication designed to be dissolved under the tongue.

What is Suboxone Sublingual Film

It is prescribed to treat opioid addiction and help manage opioid dependence, providing a controlled dose of buprenorphine and naloxone.

How Suboxone is Used in Opioid Addiction Treatment

Suboxone plays a pivotal role in opioid addiction treatment.

It’s used to:

  • Reduce withdrawal symptoms.
  • Decrease the likelihood of opioid use disorder.
  • Block the effects of other opioids.
  • Support recovery during addiction treatment.

Typically, physician-prescribed suboxone film as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include counseling and support groups.

The Suboxone tongue injury lawsuit alleges that the medication, particularly the suboxone sublingual films, has been linked to severe dental decay and gum injury.

Plaintiffs claim they were not adequately warned about these potential side effects, leading to dental issues.

Potential Injuries Associated with Suboxone Strips

The use of Suboxone strips for opioid dependency treatment has recently been under scrutiny due to its unintended impact on oral health.

Potential Injuries Associated with Suboxone Strips

Oral Health Issues Linked to Suboxone Strips Use

Suboxone strips, designed to be dissolved in the mouth, contain buprenorphine, a medication approved for opioid addiction treatment.

However, they have been linked to various oral health issues.

For patients who utilize these strips frequently, the medication’s contact with the mucous membranes in the mouth may lead to severe dental injuries.

Here are some specific oral health problems that have been observed among users of Suboxone strips:

  • Tooth Decay: Extended contact with Suboxone strips may increase the risk of tooth decay.
  • Suffered severe tooth decay: Some patients experience such significant decay that it necessitates major dental work.
  • Tooth Enamel Damage: The substance may also compromise the integrity of tooth enamel.
  • Dental Caries: A rise in reports of dental caries among users suggests a strong association.
  • Other Dental Injuries: Unspecified dental injuries have also arisen, varying in severity.

Dental health issues can pose significant costs and may lead to more severe health complications if left untreated.

Other Adverse Health Effects Reported by Patients

Beyond the scope of oral health, Suboxone strips have other related adverse effects.

It’s essential for patients and healthcare providers to monitor for the following:

  • Withdrawal Symptoms: Upon discontinuation, there might be cases of withdrawal symptoms.
  • Reports detail additional systemic effects, though there is variability among individual experiences.
  • Close medical supervision is recommended during treatment to mitigate any risks.
  • Healthcare providers should educate patients on the potential for adverse effects better to prepare them for any challenges during their treatment journey.

Staying informed on the potential risks associated with Suboxone strips can equip patients and healthcare practitioners to take proactive measures in maintaining both dental and overall health.

Legal Basis for a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

The legal foundation of Suboxone gum injury lawsuits rests on allegations that the drug’s manufacturer failed to warn users about potential risks adequately and conducted insufficient safety testing.

Legal Basis for a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

Manufacturer’s Duty to Warn of Potential Risks

Manufacturers have a legal obligation to inform patients and healthcare providers about the possible side effects of their medications.

In the case of Suboxone, a medication used primarily to treat opioid addiction, lawsuits have emerged concerning dental problems:

  • Patients have reported tooth decay, tongue and gum injuries potentially linked to the use of Suboxone.
  • The Suboxone class action lawsuit asserts that the manufacturer did not provide sufficient warning about these risks.
  • There is a belief that, had there been proper warning, patients could have taken preventive steps.
  • The core basis for these legal challenges is the right to informed consent, whereby patients should be aware of all potential side effects of a treatment.

Allegations of Insufficient Safety Testing and Labeling

Recent litigation has highlighted concerns regarding the safety and labeling practices of Suboxone, a medication commonly used in the treatment of opioid addiction.

Critics argue that the manufacturer’s failure to test and inform consumers about potential oral health risks adequately underscores a broader issue of responsibility in pharmaceutical oversight.

The complaints in the Suboxone product liability lawsuits argue that the manufacturer did not conduct thorough safety testing, especially in relation to oral health:

  • The claimed absence of rigorous testing procedures means the long-term effects on teeth and gums might not have been fully understood.
  • These allegations are significant, as they suggest negligence in the manufacturing process.
  • The lawsuits point to the idea that the Suboxone film’s labeling lacked comprehensive information on dental risks.
  • The accusations question the adequacy of any testing the defendants conducted, including its effects on users’ dental health.

Plaintiffs in these cases seek compensation, insisting that an appropriate level of detail and warning in Suboxone labeling could have prevented their injuries.

Eligibility for Filing a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

When considering a lawsuit for injuries allegedly caused by Suboxone, potential plaintiffs must satisfy specific criteria and act within a definite timeframe to file a Suboxone lawsuit claim.

Eligibility for Filing a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

Criteria for Determining Eligibility to File a Claim

To pursue a legal claim related to Suboxone’s dental side effects, claimants must navigate a set of criteria designed to establish a direct link between their use of the drug and subsequent oral health problems.

This framework ensures that only those with verifiable grievances, supported by concrete evidence, move forward in the legal process.

Eligibility hinges on meeting these crucial factors:

  1. Proof of Injury: The individual must demonstrate that they have suffered dental issues that could be linked to the use of Suboxone, such as tooth decay or tongue disease.
  2. Prescription Records: Plaintiffs should have a history of being prescribed Suboxone, ideally with a timeline that correlates with the onset of dental problems.
  3. Medical Documentation: Documentation from dental professionals supporting the claim that Suboxone usage is the likely cause of the injury is necessary.
  4. Absence of Other Causes: The claimant will need to show that other factors did not cause the dental issues, ruling out unrelated dental disease or poor oral hygiene.

Statute of Limitations for the Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

The legal framework surrounding Suboxone tongue injury claims emphasizes the importance of adhering to the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit.

This deadline varies from state to state, making it essential for affected individuals to act swiftly to preserve their rights to legal recourse.

Time is crucial when filing a lawsuit, as the statute of limitations applies:

  • Different states have varied time limits to file a Suboxone tongue injury lawsuit for personal injury claims.
  • Ignorance of the law is not typically a defense, so potential claimants should consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure their claim is filed within the legal timeframe.
  • For those affected by Suboxone-related dental injuries, the date of discovery of the injury often plays a significant role in determining the timeline.
  • In some instances, if the case involves fraud or intentional wrongdoing, the statute of limitations may be extended, but these are specific circumstances that require legal expertise to navigate.

Evidence Required to Support a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

In reviewing a claim for tongue injury allegedly caused by Suboxone, the evidence plays a pivotal role.

Evidence Required to Support a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

It substantiates the allegations and links the injury to the medication.

Medical Records Documenting Injuries and Treatment

Medical records are foundational in illustrating the timeline and progression of dental problems associated with Suboxone.

They should clearly show the following:

  1. The presence of oral infections or dental issues prior to and after Suboxone use.
  2. Records of extensive dental treatments are required due to the worsening condition.
  3. Notes from dental professionals regarding the onset of symptoms in relation to Suboxone.
  4. Documentation of any ongoing treatment specific to oral health.

Expert Testimony on Causation and Long-Term Effects

The testimony of medical experts is crucial for establishing a connection between Suboxone and gum injuries.

Experts should be able to address the following:

  • The likelihood that Suboxone use is responsible for the dental problems.
  • Any long-term effects the patient may suffer as a result of the injury.
  • Whether the gum injuries align with known side effects of Suboxone.

Claimants can build a compelling case for a Suboxone gum injury lawsuit by combining detailed medical records and authoritative expert opinions.

Potential Compensation in the Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

When engaging in a Suboxone tongue injury lawsuit, plaintiffs may receive monetary compensation if their case is successful.

Potential Compensation in the Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

This section explores the types of damages that might be recovered and factors that contribute to determining the case value.

Types of Damages Recoverable in a Successful Claim

When a claim regarding Suboxone tongue injuries is successfully proven in court, the plaintiff may be awarded compensation for various damages.

These awards are designed to cover the full range of impacts that the injury has caused immediately and in the long term.

Plaintiffs may be entitled to several forms of damages:

  1. Medical expenses: These can include costs for dental treatment, surgeries, and long-term care resulting from tongue injuries.
  2. Lost wages: Compensation for earnings lost due to inability to work while recovering from injury.
  3. Pain and suffering: This covers the physical and emotional distress caused by Suboxone-related injuries.
  4. Punitive damages: In some cases, if the defendant’s conduct is proven to be particularly harmful, additional compensation may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Factors Influencing the Value of a Suboxone Tongue Injury Case

The valuation of a Suboxone tongue injury lawsuit can vary widely, largely depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the injury and its effects on the victim’s life.

Factors such as the extent of the injury, the impact on the victim’s daily life, and the ability to work are all critical considerations in determining the amount of compensation awarded.

Several variables can affect the outcome and compensation in a Suboxone lawsuit:

  • Extent of the injury: The severity and permanence of the gum injury can significantly influence compensation amounts.
  • Impact on quality of life: How the injury affects the plaintiff’s daily life and ability to enjoy former activities plays into the settlement calculations.
  • Employment effects: Consideration is given to how the injury impairs the plaintiff’s capacity to earn a living both currently and in the future.
  • Culpability evidence: The defendant’s degree of fault and the evidence’s strength can sway the claim’s value.

In recent cases, companies involved with the distribution of Suboxone have agreed to a substantial Suboxone settlement, acknowledging potential compensation for consumers who were prescribed the medication within a specific time frame.

Status of Suboxone Tongue Injury Litigation

The litigation landscape surrounding Suboxone, specifically as it relates to suboxone tooth decay claims, is currently developing.

Status of Suboxone Tongue Injury Litigation

The spectrum of cases includes both individual lawsuits and the consideration for broader consolidated actions.

Current and Pending Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuits

Litigants are actively filing lawsuits against Suboxone manufacturers, alleging that the use of the medication has led to dental problems, including tooth decay and tongue disease.

Key points of interest are:

  1. Allegations that manufacturers failed to warn patients of the dental risks associated with Suboxone.
  2. An increasing number of Suboxone teeth lawsuits in federal and state courts.
  3. Plaintiffs seeking compensation for dental treatments they claim were necessary due to Suboxone-related tongue injuries.
  4. Discussions about developing suboxone tooth decay litigation strategies tailored to these cases.

Joining the Multidistrict Litigation (MDL)

The emergence of numerous lawsuits shares common questions of fact, stirring talks about the potential organization of these cases into multidistrict litigation (MDL).

These legal pathways could offer streamlined proceedings.

Discussion points include:

  • The benefits of MDL for efficiency and consistency across similar Suboxone lawsuits filed.
  • The role of the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation in possibly establishing a Suboxone MDL.
  • How the consolidation could impact the pace and outcomes of the federal Suboxone lawsuits.

Choosing the Right Attorney for a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

Selecting the right legal representation can greatly influence the outcome of a case seeking justice in a Suboxone tongue injury lawsuit.

Choosing the Right Attorney for a Suboxone Tongue Injury Lawsuit

A specialized attorney can offer the expertise and experience necessary to navigate the specifics of product liability with confidence and clarity.

Importance of Selecting an Experienced Product Liability Attorney

Selecting an experienced product liability attorney can significantly affect the outcome of a Suboxone gum injury case.

A seasoned lawyer brings not only a deep understanding of the law but also the strategic insight needed to navigate complex pharmaceutical litigation.

Choosing an attorney well-versed in product liability is essential because:

  • Experience: They have a track record of handling similar pharmaceutical cases.
  • Knowledge: They are up-to-date with the latest legal precedents and drug-related laws.
  • Resources: They have access to medical experts who can substantiate your claim.
  • Negotiation Skills: They can negotiate with large pharmaceutical companies to ensure a fair settlement.

TruLaw: #1 Suboxone Lawsuit Attorney

TruLaw is recognized as the premier legal firm for those pursuing a Suboxone lawsuit, combining unparalleled expertise with a personal approach to each case.

Their specialized focus on Suboxone-related injuries ensures clients receive the most informed and effective representation possible.

TruLaw stands out as a top choice for clients with:

  1. Dedicated Representation: A commitment to personal attention for each case.
  2. Successful Outcomes: A history of securing favorable verdicts and settlements.
  3. Focus on Suboxone Cases: Specific experience concerning Suboxone lawyers and related lawsuits.
  4. Client Education: Keeping clients informed about every step of the legal process.

When affected by a Suboxone gum injury, an attorney from TruLaw can help clients understand their legal options and pursue the compensation they deserve.

They exemplify the diligence and dedication necessary for these cases, making them a strong ally for victims of pharmaceutical negligence.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What compensation amounts have been awarded in previous Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits?

    The compensation amounts awarded in previous lawsuits can vary greatly.

    For instance, a nationwide settlement was negotiated at $102.5 million for deceptive practices surrounding Suboxone.

    The individual pay-outs to class members will depend on the specific damages suffered and the terms of the settlement.

  • What are the potential dental side effects associated with long-term use of buprenorphine?

    Long-term use of buprenorphine, which is commonly found in Suboxone, can lead to various adverse dental conditions.

    Some of the dental side effects associated with prolonged consumption of buprenorphine include tooth decay, dry mouth (which can increase the risk of dental cavities), gum disease, toothache, and discomfort.

  • Are there specific protections or preventative measures for teeth recommended for Suboxone users?

    Healthcare professionals recommend several preventative measures for Suboxone users to protect their teeth, which include regular dental check-ups to monitor oral health, good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing twice daily, use of mouthwash to help combat dry mouth, and discussing with a doctor about mitigating the risk of dental side effects.

  • In what circumstances can one become eligible for a Suboxone gum injury lawsuit?

    To qualify for a Suboxone gum injury lawsuit, an individual must have a history of being prescribed and using Suboxone, alongside experiencing dental problems attributable to the medication.

    Additionally, the individual must be able to provide evidence of their medication usage and show how the timing of their dental issues correlates with the period of Suboxone use.

  • What role does the Northern District of Ohio play in Suboxone gum injury lawsuits?

    The Northern District of Ohio is crucial for Suboxone gum injury lawsuits.

    This centralization is designed to streamline the legal process, reduce duplication of efforts, and ensure consistent rulings on common issues.

Written By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO

With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three.  She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.

In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.

In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!

Camp Lejeune Lawsuit

Camp Lejeune’s water contamination issue spanned several decades starting in the 1950s. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to various serious health issues, including cancer, organ diseases, and death.

Tylenol Lawsuit

Research is increasingly suggesting a link between the use of Tylenol during pregnancy and the development of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and ADHD, in infants.

AFFF Lawsuit

Legal action is being taken against manufacturers of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), a chemical used in fighting fires. The plaintiffs allege that exposure to the foam caused health issues such as cancer, organ damage, and birth and fertility issues.

Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TruLaw, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Alongside our partner law firms, we have successfully collected over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

Helpful Sites & Resources